With the trend of vinyl plank flooring becoming an affordable alternative to hardwood, learning how to maintain your floors will help prolong the life of them.
Vinyl plank is a popular choice for people who like the look of wood but want something more durable than some types of laminate and even hardwood.
Can you use a steam mop on vinyl plank flooring?
The answer is yes. But you need to use a few precautions to prevent damage from overheating.
Also if the manufacturer of your flooring does not recommend it, it is probably not a good idea, and it could potentially void the warranty of your flooring.
Key Takeaways
You can use a steam mop on vinyl plank flooring, but use the lowest heat setting and rapid strokes. Heat and moisture can damage vinyl, so don’t pause with your mop in one spot for too long.
How to Use a Steam Mop on Vinyl Plank Flooring
Pro Tip: The “Warranty Double-Check”
Using a steam mop could void the warranty of your vinyl plank flooring. I’ve seen this happen. Always, and I mean always, double-check your warranty terms. Some manufacturers are very specific about what types of cleaning methods can and cannot be used. Don’t make a costly mistake by assuming steam mopping is okay without confirming first.
The heat from steam mops is the concern you want to be most careful about when it comes to vinyl floors.
One of the main differences between vinyl plank flooring and other types of laminate or wood floors is the use of glue.
When you use a steam mop or vinyl plank flooring, always set it to the lowest heat level.
If the glue warms too much, it can cause the flooring to bend, slip, or loosen.
Never hold the steam mop in one spot for an extended period.
Use quick, straight strokes while cleaning.
- 3 different heat settings (select low for vinyl)
- Flip down scrubber for tough stains and crevices
- Featured by Household Advice as Best Steam Mop of 2022
The continuous movement will help prevent too much heat from hitting any one spot for too long.
Never pause with the steam mop on one place. Use rapid strokes and turn off the mop if you need to stop for a moment.
Many vinyl plank floors have a wood-like texture to them. Be sure to mop with the grain to avoid depositing tiny particles of dirt into the grooves.
Traditional Mopping and Too Much Moisture
Pro Tip: My “Quick Dry” Technique
The drying time for steam mopping is about 30 seconds. However, in humid conditions, it can take longer. What I like to do is follow up my steam mopping with a quick pass of a dry microfiber mop. This picks up any residual moisture and speeds up the drying process, reducing the risk of any moisture-related issues.
Vinyl plank flooring tends to stand up to moisture better than traditional laminate.
So, many homeowners think breaking out the old-fashioned mop is a good idea for vinyl.
While vinyl plank is more tolerant to water than laminate and hardwood, overuse of moisture can seep into the cracks and loosen the glue used to attach the floor.
Using a steam mop is an excellent way to clean more in-depth than just sweeping while minimizing the use of excessive water. The drying time for steam mopping is about 30 seconds.
- 3 different heat settings (select low for vinyl)
- Flip down scrubber for tough stains and crevices
- Featured by Household Advice as Best Steam Mop of 2022
So, you’ll have cleaned vinyl plank flooring without drowning in water and detergents.
Always sweep or vacuum your vinyl plank flooring before using your steam mop.
Vacuuming first will pick up larger grains of dirt. Check the microfiber cloth before and during use.
If the pad gets noticeably dirty mid-clean, you’ll need to change it out for a new one.
Eco-Friendly Sanitizing
Steam mopping can be a great way to sanitize your floors without harsh chemicals.
The steam from these mops can kill nearly 100 percent of bacteria and viruses.
Several people opt to install vinyl plank flooring in basements and bathroom where there is minimal ventilation.
Using steam to clean without harsh chemicals is essential in areas like these.
Are you interested in the best steam mops of 2022? Check out our regularly updated top list here.
