How to clean LVT flooring

In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of choosing the right methods, tools, and products to care for your LVT flooring. From cleaning techniques and maintenance tips to avoiding common mistakes, we’ll cover everything you need to know to prolong the lifespan of your luxury vinyl flooring and keep it looking its best.

The best way to clean lvt flooring

In this section, we'll explore the most effective cleaning methods to keep your flooring looking pristine. From daily upkeep to tackling stubborn stains, we'll provide practical tips and techniques to ensure your's stays clean and beautiful for years to come.

Everyday maintenance

For everyday maintenance of your LVT flooring, incorporating simple yet effective cleaning routines is key. Regular vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting with a dry cloth help to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate on the surface. However, it's crucial to ensure that larger debris like grit or pebbles are swept or picked up by hand before using a vacuum cleaner, as these can potentially scratch or damage the flooring.

When vacuuming, it's important to use the right attachments to protect your flooring. Opt for a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment or a hard floor setting, which helps to prevent scratches. Avoid using attachments with rotating brushes or beater bars, as these can be too abrasive and may cause damage to the surface of the flooring.

Deep cleaning & stain removal

If a spill or stain does occur, a gentle wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent should do the trick. Just remember not to use too much water, make sure to wring out your cloth or mop thoroughly first. For tougher stains, a soft-bristle brush and some circular motions can help without risking scratches. If needed, you can turn to cleaning chemicals made for LVT, but always check the label first. Be sure to rinse away any soap residue to avoid stickiness. Allow your floor to dry completely before walking on it and remember, never use a steam cleaner, as the heat and moisture can damage your luxury vinyl tiles.

Natural / eco cleaning tips and what to avoid

If you prefer to use natural or eco-friendly cleaning options, there are safe methods you can use for luxury vinyl flooring. A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar can be effective for regular cleaning. However, avoid using natural cleaning solutions that are acidic or abrasive, such as lemon juice, baking soda, or vinegar at high concentrations, as these can damage the flooring's surface. Always dilute vinegar properly and test any new cleaning solution on a small area first to ensure it does not harm the floor.

Can you mop or steam clean LVT?

Steam mops, while effective for many surfaces, are not recommended for LVT flooring due to the risk of heat and moisture damage. Instead, it is best to follow recommended cleaning practices: regularly vacuum the floor and use a damp microfiber mop with a gentle cleaner for mopping. This approach ensures your LVT flooring remains clean and undamaged

Do’s and Don’ts for LVT flooring

Knowing what to do and what to avoid is essential for maintaining your LVT flooring's longevity. Here's a handy table outlining the essential do's and don'ts for keeping your flooring looking its best.

Do	Don't
✔️ Regularly sweep dirt and debris	❌ Use a steam mop to clean LVT
✔️ Have a regular deep clean	❌ Pour water directly onto the flooring
✔️ Use a damp cloth to remove spills and light marks	❌ Use heavy chemicals or detergents to clean
✔️ Vacuum regularly	❌ Use wax-based products on LVT

 

Tips for maintaining LVT floors

Beyond regular cleaning routines, there are various tips and techniques you can include into your maintenance routine. From preventative measures to addressing minor imperfections, let's explore some effective strategies.

Use mats and runners

Incorporating mats and runners in high-traffic areas is essential. Placing mats at entrances, hallways, doorways, and landings serves a dual purpose: they provide support against constant wear and tear while also acting as a barrier to catch debris and dirt tracked in from shoes. By effectively trapping dirt and preventing it from spreading across the floor, mats and runners help maintain the cleanliness of your flooring. Additionally, they can reduce the risk of scratches and scuffs caused by abrasive particles. So, don't hesitate to invest in quality mats and runners to protect your LVT flooring and keep it looking as good as new.

Installation considerations

When laying laminate flooring, especially in kitchens or other areas with heavy appliances and furniture, it's essential to plan the installation carefully. Avoid laying the flooring before installing appliances and large furniture pieces. Instead, complete the installation after these items are in place to ensure a proper fit and to prevent the need for adjustments later. This approach also helps protect your flooring from potential damage during the LVT installation process.

Avoid furniture with rollers

To safeguard your LVT flooring from potential damage, we advise you to steer clear of furniture with rollers or canisters, as these can cause dents and indentations over time. The constant pressure that comes from these types of feet can gradually mar the surface of your flooring. However, if you already have furniture with rollers, consider placing protective pads or coasters underneath them. These simple measures can help distribute the weight more evenly, minimising the risk of dents.

Choose where you lay LVT flooring

When it comes to choosing where to lay LVT flooring, considering the room's exposure to sunlight is crucial. Direct sunlight can sometimes lead to discoloration of LVT flooring, especially in rooms with large windows or skylights. Therefore, it's wise to opt for areas with minimal sunlight exposure or to use blinds or curtains. Ideal spaces for LVT flooring include bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways, where moisture resistance and durability are nonnegotiable.

Invest in the right care products

At FDF, we understand the importance of preserving your flooring investment, which is why we offer a curated selection of cleaning products tailored to LVT maintenance needs. Explore our range of LVT flooring options and discover expert care solutions to keep your floors looking their best. Don't forget to check out our LVT buying guide for additional tips on selecting the perfect flooring for your space.

How do you repair luxury vinyl flooring?

Repairing luxury vinyl flooring is luckily a straightforward process. To repair scratches or holes, you'll need epoxy resin and acrylic artist's paint matching the tile's colour. Mix the resin with the paint and fill the damaged area, levelling it out and removing excess. Allow it to dry thoroughly. For more extensive damage requiring tile replacement, use a blow dryer or heat gun to loosen the adhesive beneath the tile, then carefully remove it. Clean the floor underneath and install a new tile cut to size, ensuring it matches existing flooring patterns. Firmly press the new tile into place with a rolling pin or floor roller to avoid any trip hazards.