How to Clean LVP Flooring Effectively

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring has become a staple in modern homes thanks to its durability and stylish appearance, mimicking hardwood floors without the extensive maintenance hardwood often requires. Understanding how to clean LVP flooring is crucial for maintaining its beauty and ensuring it lasts for years. In this guide, we will explore the best methods for both daily cleaning and deep cleaning, ensuring your LVP floors always look their best.

Understanding LVP Flooring and Its Characteristics

LVP flooring stands out for its composition and performance, making it an ideal choice for any modern home, especially in high-traffic areas. Here’s why the right care is essential:

• Material Makeup: Like other luxury Vinyl flooring, LVP is primarily made of PVC vinyl, which is sturdy yet requires gentle care to avoid scratches or damage. Since this material can be sensitive to certain harsh chemicals, it’s important to use the right cleaning products.
• Durability and Design: One of the biggest benefits of LVP flooring is its robust nature, resisting basic traffic scratches, dents, stains and waterproof from top surface only. It offers a variety of design options that replicate the look of natural wood. Regular maintenance not only protects its structure but also maintains its aesthetic appeal.
• Maintenance Needs: While LVP is more durable than traditional wood flooring, it still requires proper cleaning to maintain its appearance. Incorrect cleaning methods or materials can damage the surface.

Daily Cleaning Practices for LVP Flooring

Maintaining the beauty of LVP flooring in your home involves simple but effective routines. By following these daily cleaning practices, you can prevent wear and keep your floors looking as new as the day they were installed.

Use the Right Tools

For everyday cleaning, use a soft-bristle broom, microfiber mop or
vacuum with a setting specific for hard surface flooring. This helps remove dirt and debris without scratching the surface.

Safe Cleaning Solutions

When mopping your LVP flooring, choose a cleaner recommended for vinyl planking. Here are a few points to consider:

• Use a damp mop rather than a wet one to prevent water from seeping into the seams.
• A mix of water and mild soap is often sufficient to clean effectively.
• Do not use Crystal Mix Cleaner
• Do not use any Oil Cleaner or Ammonia Cleaner
• We recommend “BONA” Cleaner spray

Immediate Spill Response

Spills should be taken care of immediately with a soft cloth, white towel or a  paper towel. Leaving liquids on LVP flooring for a prolonged period -may  cause staining or damage. Here are quick steps to manage spills:

1. Blot the spill with a soft cloth immediately.
2. Clean the area with a recommended “BONA” vinyl flooring cleaner to remove any residue.
3. Dry the area thoroughly with a clean cloth.

Following these guidelines will help you keep your LVP flooring in pristine condition, safeguarding your investment while keeping your home looking great.

Deep Cleaning LVP Flooring

While daily cleaning is crucial for maintenance, deep cleaning your LVP flooring ensures a thorough removal of dirt and grime that may have accumulated over time. Follow these steps for deep cleaning:

1. Remove all furniture and rugs from the area to be cleaned.
2. Sweep or vacuum the entire floor to remove loose dirt and debris.
3. Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a recommended LVP cleaner according to the instructions on the bottle.
4. Use a mop or microfiber cloth dampened with the cleaning solution to thoroughly clean the floor. Be careful not to saturate the floor.
5. Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas and any stains or spots, gently scrubbing with a soft brush if necessary.
6. Rinse the mop or cloth with clean water and go over the entire floor again to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
7. Dry the floor completely using a clean, dry microfiber cloth or mop.
8. Replace any Felt Glides on legs every 6-12 months based on what is needed.

Deep cleaning should be done periodically, depending on the level of traffic and dirt on your LVP flooring. It helps restore the floor’s shine and removes any buildup that regular cleaning might miss. Do not add any shinner or urethane. 

Seasonal Maintenance for LVP Flooring

To keep your Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring in top condition year-round, seasonal maintenance is key. This doesn’t just preserve the look of your flooring, but also its durability and longevity. Here are step-by-step tips for each season:

Spring:

• Check for Damages: Inspect your flooring for any potential damage that might have occurred during the colder months.
• Rearrange Furniture: Consider changing the layout of your room to even out wear and tear on the flooring.

Summer:

• Protect from Sunlight: Use curtains or blinds to shield your floors from long hours of direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
• Maintain Humidity Levels: Use a dehumidifier if necessary, as excessive moisture can affect LVP flooring adversely.

Fall:

• Prepare for Colder Weather: Lay down mats or rugs at entrances to catch debris from fall foliage.
• Routine Cleaning: Keep up with regular cleaning, paying special attention to leaf debris and mud.

Winter:

• Guard Against Moisture: Place mats both inside and outside doorways to control the spread of snow and ice melt.
• Regular Checks: Frequently check the state of your mats and rugs for wetness and clean them as needed to prevent moisture accumulation.

Following these seasonal maintenance tips will help prolong the life and beauty of your LVP flooring, ensuring it remains a stunning feature of your home throughout the year.

Remember, proper cleaning and maintenance are paramount for enjoying the full benefits of your LVP flooring. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your floors looking brand new and enjoy their beauty and durability for years to come.

Need Help with a Flooring Project?

The experts at Tom Adams are standing by to help. For the last several decades, we’ve been transforming homes in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. If you need an estimate on new windows, floors, doors, carpet, or siding, we’re here to help! Get a free estimate today.