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.
You might wonder how best to clean your vinyl. So, can you use a steam mop on vinyl plank flooring? The answer is yes. Just use a few precautions to prevent damage from overheating.
Traditional Mopping and Too Much Moisture
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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 . 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. With the onslaught of chemicals our bodies already have to endure, disinfecting without adding more to your home is a great benefit.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.
Use Caution with Heat to Protect Vinyl Plank Flooring
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.
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.
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