Is it OK to clean vinyl floors with vinegar?

Author: Mr. Emery Bechtelar PhD  |  Last update: Saturday, December 27, 2025

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.

Will vinegar damage vinyl floors?

While vinegar is a common ingredient in many homemade floor cleaners, it shouldn't be used on certain household surfaces because it can cause damage. Fortunately, luxury vinyl flooring isn't one of those surfaces. In fact, apple cider vinegar makes an excellent vinyl floor cleaner.

What is the best thing to clean vinyl floors with?

Mild cleaners like a distilled vinegar solution are more appropriate for luxury vinyl flooring. A mixture of warm water and white distilled vinegar goes in the bucket. The ideal ratio is one cup of vinegar per gallon of water.

Can vinegar be used on vinyl?

You can use a small amount of dish soap or a mixture of water and white vinegar. The only “down-side” of vinegar is that it is acidic, and if you live in a climate where mold and mildew are a problem, an acidic environment can promote that growth. Don't use natural vinegar. Only white vinegar.

What cleaners should not be used on vinyl plank flooring?

Common Chemicals to Avoid
  • Common Chemicals to Avoid. Ammonia-Based Cleaners. ...
  • Bleach. Bleach too harsh for vinyl floors. ...
  • Abrasive Cleaners. Abrasive cleaners contain particles that help scrub away dirt and grime. ...
  • Wax-Based Products. ...
  • Solvent-Based Cleaners.

How to clean vinyl plank flooring without damaging it #flooring #cleaning #howto

What destroys vinyl plank flooring?

Enemies of Vinyl Flooring
  • Dirt and Grit: Acting like sandpaper, dirt and grit particles can scratch the wear layer of the vinyl, especially at entryways and high-traffic areas. ...
  • Sharp Objects: Dropping sharp objects like knives or tools can puncture or gouge vinyl.

Can I use Dawn to clean vinyl plank flooring?

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. Mix about an ounce of Dawn dish detergent with a gallon of warm (not hot) water for the best results in loosening filth from your floors.

Does white vinegar disinfect floors?

Distilled white vinegar usually has an acidity around 5%, which gives it the power to cut through dirt, mineral deposits, and hard-water stains. This acidity also gives it some mild disinfectant properties, though we don't recommend relying on vinegar for thorough disinfection.

What is the best cleaner for vinyl material?

Soap and Water - Warm Dish Soap and Water is the best way to safely clean Marine Vinyl. It may take some elbow grease, but if you clean your material every few weeks this method is the safest.

Is Bona floor cleaner safe for luxury vinyl plank?

Bona has everything you need for maintaining and cleaning vinyl floors; from vinyl floor cleaners to mops and vinyl floor polish. Whether you have luxury vinyl tile, luxury vinyl plank or sheet vinyl flooring, Bona has you covered.

How often should I mop a vinyl floor?

How Often to Clean Vinyl Plank Flooring. Like the other floors in your home, you should plan to remove crumbs, dust, and debris from your floors at least once a week.

Is pine-sol good for vinyl floors?

Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner is a suitable option for vinyl floors, but it should be used sparingly with water.

Can I use Swiffer wet on vinyl floors?

Swiffer wet cloths are designed to be used on most floor surfaces, such as: vinyl.

What is the best cleaning solution for vinyl floors?

Using natural substances like vinegar or baking soda can an effective, gentler cleaning method. In addition, removing stains from vinyl tile, planks or sheet vinyl flooring this way is more budget friendly and safer for pets. Baking soda is a natural method that avoids harming the finish.

What surfaces should not be cleaned with vinegar?

Never Clean These With Vinegar
  1. Stone Countertops. Surfaces that often get ruined by vinegar are stone countertops, like marble and travertine. ...
  2. Dishwashers/Washing Machines. You might have come across the tip of running a dishwasher or washing machine with vinegar to tackle hard-water film and odors. ...
  3. Clothes Iron.

Does vinegar destroy grout?

Grout is porous and usually sealed to resist stains. However, acid can degrade these silicone-based sealants, causing them to break down and wash away. Contrary to popular belief, this can happen with just one application of vinegar.

What not to use on vinyl?

Here are five things that you should avoid if you want to keep your vinyl happy and healthy:
  • Avoid Painting. ...
  • Stay Away from Harsh Chemicals. ...
  • Don't Use Abrasive Cleaning Tools. ...
  • If you must Power Wash, Keep it Level. ...
  • Keep Your BBQ at a Distance.

Does white vinegar clean vinyl?

Vinegar or baking soda are the best options for cleaning the floor with natural products. 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.

How do professionals clean vinyl?

Easily the best way to deep clean a vinyl record is to use a special record cleaner. These vacuum-powered devices are made especially for cleaning vinyl old and new. They work by sucking up the dirt and dust that have settled in the grooves while maintaining a low pressure to protect your prized hits.

Is Dawn and vinegar a good floor cleaner?

Homemade cleaners like the hardwood floor cleaner vinegar dawn mixture are surprisingly effective. Vinegar's natural acidity helps to break down dirt and grime, while Dawn dish soap effectively cuts through grease. This combination ensures a thorough clean without leaving harmful residues behind.

Is mopping with vinegar good?

This common kitchen mop is not just for salads anymore; it's a natural cleaning solution with a punch for your hardwood floors and carpet! It works wonders on these materials. The acidity in vinegar gives it the power to cut through dirt and grime on your tile flooring, leaving it sparkling clean when you use a mop.

Is cleaning floors with vinegar safe for pets?

Unfortunately, Vinegar can be harmful to some hard surface floors such as hardwood and stone floors. While vinegar is generally safe for cats, some may be sensitive to its strong smell. It's advisable to test a small area first and ensure proper ventilation while cleaning.

What not to clean vinyl floors with?

Vinyl Flooring “Don'ts”
  • Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers to clean your vinyl floor.
  • Avoid using detergents, soaps, abrasive cleaners or products intended to add shine to your floors. ...
  • Don't use wax or solvent-based polishes.
  • Don't use ammonia or ammonia-based cleaning solutions.

Can you use pine sol on vinyl floor?

Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner – Yes, Pine Sol on vinyl floors is a fine option; however, use sparingly with water. Do not oversaturate your vinyl floors with too much water, use just enough to disinfect the floors.

How to deep clean vinyl flooring?

One of the most effective and sustainable ways to clean vinyl floors is with white vinegar. Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply it using a mop, ensuring it does not oversaturate the floor.

Previous article
Do carbon water filters need to be replaced?
Next article
What is the most popular baseboard style?