While steam mops offer a deep clean for many surfaces, they are not be the best choice for vinyl flooring due to the potential risk of heat and moisture damage. Instead, stick to our recommended cleaning practices with regular vacuuming and mopping with a damp microfiber mop and gentle cleaner.
A steam mop can be pretty tempting, but do not do it! Luxury vinyl plank flooring is not steam resistant. Yes, it can handle water at some levels but not steam. Vinyl is plastic at the end of the day and exposure to high temperatures can cause it to lose shape and it can ruin the top layer of your flooring.
Vinyl flooring should be dry-mopped or vacuumed daily or weekly and—when a deeper cleaning is needed—damp-mopped with a pH-neutral cleaning agent formulated for use on vinyl or with a mild solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water mixed with two to three drops of dish soap.
In short, no. A steam mop is not the best choice for use on your vinyl plank flooring, and it could even damage the flooring.
Microfiber mops are ideal for vinyl plank flooring. They are soft enough to prevent scratches and can be used dry to pick up dirt and damp to clean without too much moisture.
Swiffer wet cloths are designed to be used on most floor surfaces, such as: vinyl.
Bona's hard surface floor cleaner is the best floor cleaner for laminate, vinyl, tile, stone and other hard surface floors.
Hardwood floors that are not sealed or improperly sealed are highly susceptible to moisture damage. Steam is likely to seep into the interior of the wood, causing the floor to swell, warp, and even cause long-term damage. For this type of floor, we recommend using dry or wet mop cleaning method.
Absolutely not by most vinyl manufacturers. The risks of damage from heat and moisture often outweigh the potential benefits of a faster, deeper clean.
Generally speaking, most luxury vinyl planks can be cleaned using soap and water and don't require a special LVP cleaner. A dishwashing soap like Dawn is the best way to clean vinyl plank flooring because it will cut grime and grease without stripping your floors or damaging the wear layer.
Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner is a suitable option for vinyl floors, but it should be used sparingly with water.
Apple cider or even white vinegar are great natural cleaners for vinyl flooring. To create your cleaning solution, mix one cup of vinegar with a gallon of very warm water. Use this for mopping in place of a commercial cleaning solution. To clean up stains, consider creating a baking soda paste.
The amount of water that steam mops use can also damage your vinyl flooring. Water can potentially work its way into and between your tiles, damaging the material and even contributing to mildew growth.
A good old-fashioned sponge mop and water work quite nicely to clean vinyl flooring. Vacuum and mop regularly, approximately once or twice a week, and address any spills, wiping them up pronto with a pH neutral cleaner.
So, where does the dirt go when you steam clean? Actually, it doesn't go anywhere. Instead, the heat and vapour of steam cleaning ensure that all the unwanted substances or stains are fully broken down and easy to get rid of.
While both flooring options are easy to maintain, linoleum is susceptible to moisture damage and requires additional maintenance upon installation. Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is a non-porous material; the result is a flooring that is resistant to high moisture and spills.
The steam's heat penetrates even the toughest grime, rejuvenating floors by lifting and removing dirt that traditional mops may leave behind. This makes the steam mop a superior choice for thorough cleaning, especially on surfaces that are often challenging to maintain, like textured tiles or deep grout lines.
One of the most common issues with LVP floors is residue left by improper cleaning products. Soap-based and oil-based cleaners, while often effective on other surfaces, can leave a sticky film on LVP flooring. This residue dulls the finish and attracts more dirt, making the floor look dirty.
For a more thorough clean, consider using a microfiber mop dampened with water or a manufacturer-approved vinyl floor cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as well as tools such as steel wool, as they can strip away the floor's protective coating and cause discoloration.
Since most furniture will not go under just one plank, it is perfectly safe for bulky furniture and refrigerators to go on vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl plank flooring will not be damaged or cracked by home appliances' weight due to its strong durability.
If you're looking for a quick and easy solution for light cleaning and convenience, Swiffer WetJet might be a good fit. On the other hand, if you prefer an eco-friendly, reusable option that's versatile enough for various floor types and cleaning tasks, Bona could be the better choice.
A: Yes it can. I've been using it on my vinyl plank flooring for a few years now. It works great on the vinyl waterproof flooring.
No, Bona Floor Cleaners are formulated to clean without dulling or leaving any residue on your floors.