How to Clean LVP Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide

How Do I Clean Luxury Vinyl Planks?

Your home is graced with exquisite waterproof luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring. Yet, amidst the joys of children and pets, the occasional muddy paw or chocolate milk spill is inevitable.

Fear not! LVP, renowned for its pet-friendly and kid-safe attributes, demands nothing more than routine care to uphold its allure and durability. 

In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a journey, step-by-step, revealing the secrets to pristine LVP floors. Brace yourself, for it’s time to restore those planks to their former glory.

Step 1: Sweep Or Vacuum Regularly

Before embarking on any wet-cleaning endeavor, it’s imperative to first eliminate all loose dirt and debris from your LVP floors. Employ a gentle touch by sweeping with a soft-bristle broom or a dry microfiber dust mop. 

Utilize a vacuum cleaner set to hard surface mode for efficient cleaning. Once pesky dust bunnies and feline fur have been whisked away, it’s time to delve into the realm of selecting the optimal cleaning solution.

Step 2: Pick Your Cleaning Solution

Employ a bucket to blend a gallon of tepid water with a few drops of gentle dish soap. Another option is to administer a pH-neutral cleaner or a cleaning solution specifically designed for LVP floors. 

A handy tip: Refrain from utilizing wax polishes, abrasive detergents, and potent chemicals like bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can gradually erode the protective layer of your flooring.

We strongly discourage the use of vinegar for cleaning luxury vinyl floors. Though effective against common household grime, vinegar’s lack of pH balance may pose a risk to your planks. 

Best Cleaning Products For Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors

When it comes to selecting the perfect LVP cleaner, the choices abound. Here, we present three standout options that have garnered high praise from users:

• Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner: Widely celebrated for its efficacy, Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner tops the charts.
  Users rave about its ability to leave luxury vinyl tile floors sparkling clean without any residue, making it a trusted go-to for many.
  
• Rejuvenate Luxury Vinyl Tile Floor Cleaner: This cleaner has carved out its place among the best, thanks to its remarkable performance.
  Users sing its praises for effortlessly rejuvenating luxury vinyl tile floors, leaving them looking brand new with each use.
  
• Quick Shine® Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner: Known for its versatility and exceptional results, Quick Shine® Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner stands tall among the competition.
  Users commend its ability to effectively clean various floor types, including luxury vinyl tile, while delivering a lasting shine that truly impresses.

In the realm of LVP cleaners, these three options stand as shining examples of excellence, earning the trust and satisfaction of countless users worldwide.

Step 3: Mop Gently With Microfiber Mop

With a gleaming floor and cleaning supplies at the ready, it’s time to tackle mopping! But wait… you realize you need the perfect mop for the job. So, what exactly is the optimal mop for vinyl plank floors? 

Best Mops For Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

When pondering the ideal mop for your luxurious vinyl plank flooring, it’s crucial to weigh their attributes carefully. Here’s a breakdown:

• Soft Microfiber Material: Opt for mops with soft microfiber materials to safeguard against unsightly scratches on your pristine flooring.
  
• Adjustable Handles: Seek out mops equipped with adjustable handles, simplifying the task of reaching those tricky, hard-to-access spots.
  
• Lightweight Design: Look for mops boasting a lightweight design, facilitating effortless maneuverability and reducing strain during cleaning sessions.
  
• Washable Pads: Prioritize mops featuring washable pads, offering a sustainable alternative to disposable ones and promoting eco-friendly cleaning practices.

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For your convenience, here are some esteemed mop brands tailor-made for luxury vinyl plank flooring:

• O-Cedar EasyWring™ Spin Mop & Bucket System
• Bona Premium Spray Mop for Hard-Surface Floors
• Quick Shine® Premium Spray Mop Kit
• Rejuvenate Click and Clean Multi Surface Spray Mop System

And here’s a valuable pro tip: Steer clear of steam cleaners when tending to your LVP floors. These appliances can wreak havoc, potentially causing damage to your elegant planks.

Extreme temperatures might trigger vinyl expansion, leading to unsightly creases and adhesive bond issues. Keep your floors flawlessly fabulous by opting for gentle cleaning methods instead.

Got The Mop You Want? Let’s Get Started…

When it comes to maintaining your luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, choosing the right mop and technique can make all the difference.

If you’ve opted for the O-Cedar EasyWring™ Spin Mop, here’s how to ensure your floors stay spotless:

• Begin by dipping your mop into your bucket with soapy water. Wring it out until it’s damp but not dripping wet.
  
• Next, apply some muscle power and mop across the floor surface in short forward and backward strokes, following the LVP’s grain pattern rather than against it.
  
• Rinse your mop after every five planks to prevent dirt or stains from spreading.
  
• Repeat the mopping process until your entire floor is so fresh and so clean.

Now, if you’ve invested in a spray mop like the Bona Premium Spray Mop, here’s what you need to do:

• Follow the mop’s instructions for using its spray setting.
• Just like with the spin mop, stick to the same mopping technique by following the LVP’s grain pattern in short back-and-forth strokes.
• Keep an eye on the cleaning pads; if they’re disposable, swap them out as soon as they get dirty to avoid spreading more grime.

Remember, whether you’re wielding a spin mop or a spray mop, always start from the farthest corner of the room and work your way towards the exit, overlapping your strokes to ensure thorough coverage.

And while LVP is waterproof, be cautious not to leave excess moisture lingering on your floors for too long, as it could potentially cause damage.

Step 4: Spot Clean If Needed

Following the completion of mopping, there may remain areas requiring targeted care. Should this be the case, apply a small amount of your chosen cleaner onto the specific spot.

Proceed by utilizing a soft-bristled brush or a fresh cloth to eradicate any remaining stains or dirt. It is imperative to refrain from using steel wool or abrasive cleaning substances, as they have the potential to inflict damage upon the surface of the flooring. 

Step 5: Dry Your Floors Completely

Once your LVP floors have received a thorough mopping across all sections, it’s essential to ensure they dry completely. You can achieve this by gently patting them dry with a soft towel or cloth. 

Alternatively, if manual drying isn’t your cup of tea (we completely empathize), you can promote air circulation by opening windows or turning on fans.

This will expedite the air-drying process. However, it’s crucial to note that if you choose air drying, be vigilant not to leave any standing water or pools of cleaning solution on your floors. 

Expert Tip: Preventative Maintenance

It’s essential to take good care of your luxury vinyl planks to maintain their flawless appearance.  

Rugs, Mats, And Pads For Vinyl Floor Protection

Enhance the longevity of your LVP flooring by strategically placing rugs or mats in high-traffic zones such as hallways and entryways.

Shielding these areas prevents premature wear and tear, preserving the pristine appearance of your floors for years to come.

For areas prone to heavy pivot points, like in front of stoves or sinks, it’s advisable to employ protective mats. These strategic measures not only safeguard against damage but also maintain the aesthetic integrity of your flooring.

When selecting mats, opt for those devoid of latex or rubber backings to mitigate the risk of discoloration. Ensure that floor protectors beneath furniture legs offer ample surface area and remain free of stains.

Replace domed or slender metal glides with flat, smooth alternatives that establish full contact with the floor, preventing scratches or marks.

Lastly, for bulky appliances or furniture items that remain stationary for extended periods, equip them with appropriately sized, flat casters that won’t leave unsightly stains on your pristine floors.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll fortify your flooring against potential damage while maintaining its flawless allure. 

Are Those Planks Pretty Again?

Luxury vinyl planks boast exceptional durability and effortless maintenance. However, safeguarding their pristine condition necessitates regular care to fend off deterioration and uphold their longevity.

Elevate the allure of your floors by adhering to our meticulous guidelines and employing top-tier cleaning agents.

Should you seek further assistance in maintaining your LVP floors, rest assured, our dedicated team stands ready to assist. Click the Chat Now button situated at the bottom right to engage with our live chat representatives promptly.

You can initiate contact by completing the form on the right, specifying your preferred mode of communication. Anticipate our swift response, tailored to address your concerns comprehensively.