Whether you have Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) in your kitchen, bathroom, or any other area of your home or workspace, keeping it clean is essential for maintaining its beauty and longevity. Thankfully, LVT flooring is water and scratch resistant and simple to maintain, making it a practical addition to family homes where spillages and stains are more common.

This blog is a comprehensive guide on how to effectively care for your LVT flooring, ensuring it stays sparkling for years to come.

Introduction to LVT Flooring

Before diving into the cleaning process, let’s start with a brief introduction to synthetic LVT flooring. This material replicates the look of natural materials like hardwood, stone, or ceramic tile but offers enhanced durability and easy maintenance, making it a practical choice for both residential and commercial spaces. It is popular for its affordability, water resistance, and wide range of designs.

Now let’s get stuck into the ins and outs of cleaning LVT.

Essential Tools and Materials for Cleaning LVT

You’ll need a few essential tools and materials to clean LVT flooring effectively. Gathering these supplies beforehand will ensure a smooth cleaning experience. Some of the tools you’ll need include a broom or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, a mop with a microfiber or soft cloth pad, a bucket, and a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for LVT. 

Avoid using abrasive scrub brushes, harsh chemicals, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the protective layers of the flooring.

Here are the items you’ll need:

1. Soft-bristle broom or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
2. Microfiber mop or a soft mop with non-abrasive mop heads
3. pH-neutral floor cleaner specifically designed for LVT
4. Warm water
5. Soft, lint-free cloths or mop pads
6. Mild dish soap.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cleaning and Maintaining LVT Flooring

Most manufacturers of LVT offer their own cleaning kits, bringing LVT back to life and removing surface scratches. Here are some of the best cleaning products designed to care for your LVT flooring.

There are definitely some clear do’s and don’ts when it comes to caring for LVT. Follow these six steps to clean and maintain your LVT flooring effectively.

Step 1: Remove loose debris: begin by sweeping or vacuuming your LVT flooring to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris. This will prevent scratching during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Prepare the cleaning solution: dilute the recommended amount of pH-neutral floor cleaner in a bucket of warm water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the LVT surface.

Step 3: Mop the floor: dip the mop into the cleaning solution and wring out any excess liquid. Mop the floor in small sections, working your way across the room. Rinse and wring out the mop frequently to avoid spreading dirt or residue.

Step 4: Spot cleaning for stubborn stains: dampen a soft, lint-free cloth or mop pad with warm water and mild dish soap for stubborn stains or spills. Gently rub the affected area in a circular motion until the stain is removed. Rinse the area with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Step 5: Rinse the floor: rinse the floor with clean water using a mop or damp cloth after mopping. This will remove any residue left behind by the cleaning solution.

Step 6: Dry the floor: use a dry, lint-free cloth or allow the floor to air dry completely. Avoid walking on the wet floor until it is dry to prevent slips and falls.

Tips for Removing Stubborn Stains from LVT

While LVT is highly resistant to stains, some marks may require additional attention. Here are some tips for tackling stubborn stains:

• Oil or grease: blot the stain with a cloth or paper towel to absorb excess oil. Then, clean the area with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

• Ink or marker: gently rub the stain with an isopropyl alcohol-based cleaner or nail polish remover on a clean cloth. Rinse with clean water and dry.

• Scuff marks: apply a small amount of baking soda on a damp cloth and gently rub the scuff mark in a circular motion. Rinse and dry the area.

Preventative Measures to Extend the Lifespan of LVT

Certain cleaning agents and methods can damage the surface or reduce its longevity. Here are some things you should avoid using when cleaning LVT flooring:

1. Harsh chemicals: Avoid using strong chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners, as they can cause discolouration, fading, or damage to the protective wear layer of the LVT.

2. Wax-based products: LVT flooring already has a protective top layer, so applying wax or wax-based products can create a buildup on the surface and make it slippery.

3. Steam cleaners: Steam cleaning can introduce excessive moisture to the seams and edges of LVT flooring, leading to potential damage or adhesive failure. It’s best to avoid steam cleaning methods for LVT.

4. Scrub brushes or abrasive pads: Rough scrub brushes, abrasive pads, or scouring powders can scratch or dull the surface of the LVT flooring. Stick to soft microfiber mops or cloths for regular cleaning.

5. Excessive water or moisture: While LVT is water-resistant, excessive water or moisture should be avoided, especially in areas with seams or gaps between the tiles. Standing water or prolonged exposure to moisture can seep into these areas, potentially causing damage or warping.

In addition to the actions listed above, you should consider these preventative measures to keep your LVT flooring looking its best for years to come:

• Place doormats at entryways to trap dirt and prevent it from being tracked onto the flooring.

• Use furniture pads or felt protectors under heavy furniture to prevent scratches and dents.

• Avoid dragging heavy or sharp objects across the floor. Lift and move them instead.

Conclusion

Maintaining clean LVT flooring is essential for preserving its beauty and durability. You can effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains by adopting a regular cleaning routine that includes sweeping, mopping with mild detergent, and promptly addressing spills.

Protective measures like doormats and furniture pads can also prevent scratches and scuffs. With proper care and attention, your LVT flooring will continue to impress with its elegance and resilience for years to come.

Laminate Flooring Products and Advice from the Professionals at Trade Flooring Warehouse

Trade Flooring Warehouse works with some of the top manufacturers in the UK, stocking and supplying various flooring ranges – including LVT – at the best prices. Our LVT flooring comes in a range of shades, finishes, and styles to suit all tastes and budgets. Contact us today to learn more.