Once viewed as the lesser alternative to hardwood and stone tile flooring, vinyl has made incredible strides over the years. The advent of luxury vinyl tiles and planks has upped the ante when it comes to fuss-free maintenance. Still, even the best surfaces still require occasional professional floor cleaning occasionally to prolong their lifespan and aesthetic. Here’s what you need to know about their upkeep.

How to Prevent Scratches

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are flooring materials that mimic the high-end look of stone and hardwood, respectively, without the hefty price tag. They also don’t require periodic sealing or extensive treatments to preserve their overall look.

Sweep or vacuum the luxury vinyl flooring at least once a week to remove dust and debris. As fine dirt particles accumulate, they can damage the surface finish by acting like sandpaper when tracked on the floor. Avoid scrubbing the vinyl flooring vigorously with a brush, as this can scratch the surface. If you need to move furniture, put felt pads underneath to prevent scuffing the floor.   

How to Prevent Discoloration

Wipe down spills and stains immediately. Avoid using dripping wet mops to clean LVT and LVP since standing water can soak through and damage the flooring. Instead, use damp microfiber cloths and mops for watery messes.

Skip the wax — it will only dull the vinyl flooring rather than make it shiny. Similarly, forego harsh cleaners and use shampoo, dish soap, or mild detergent mixed with warm water to clean the surface.

Lastly, place rugs and mats on entrances to trap dirt and moisture, preventing them from tracking inside and spreading around.

When to Schedule Professional Floor Cleaning

While routine maintenance will protect the longevity of your LVT and LVP, it’s still essential to schedule deep floor cleaning with a professional once in a while. LVT and LVP have small grooves and crevices where specks of dust get trapped. Even with regular sweeping and vacuuming, built-up grime can result in drab-looking floors over time. Let expert cleaners handle everything, since they have the proper equipment, mild solutions, and years of experience to restore your floor’s appearance without inadvertently causing damage.  

When you need to have your LVT or LVP cleaned, trust the floor cleaning experts at The Rug Beater Cleaning Enterprises, Inc. in Lancaster, Berks, and Chester counties, PA. Since 1989, they’ve provided an extensive range of services from carpet stain removal to upholstery cleaning. Call (717) 656-9826 to schedule floor maintenance service. Request a free cleaning inspection online.