Vinyl flooring is sure popular these days! Lots of homeowners are installing it in their homes because it’s attractive, durable, and so easy to maintain. But after some time, vinyl floors can lose their sparkle and start to look dirty. So homeowners start wondering – can you use vinegar on these floors to clean them up?
The short answer is yes, you definitely can use vinegar to clean vinyl floors safely and effectively. Besides, vinegar is a natural cleaning solution that will help get rid of dirt, grime, and stains from vinyl without damaging the flooring itself.
But there are some pros and cons you should keep in mind when using vinegar on vinyl floors. So, read on as we explore whether vinegar is the right cleaning solution for your floors!
Pros of Using Vinegar on Vinyl Floors
There are some great benefits to using vinegar on your floors:
Safe for Vinyl
It’s safe for vinyl and won’t hurt the floors or make them dull like other harsh cleaners can. The acetic acid in vinegar gently lifts dirt from the surface.
Removes Dirt & Grime
Vinegar removes sticky messes, dirt, and grime that build up over time. Mopping with vinegar solution really gets floors clean without residue.
Deodorizes Vinyl
In addition, it deodorizes as it cleans! This implies vinegar helps remove smelly bacteria so your floors smell fresh.
Environmentally Friendly
Vinegar is a green, non-toxic cleaning solution for vinyl floors. Using vinegar avoids exposing your family and pets to harsh chemicals that can be found in many commercial floor cleaners. It’s better for the environment too!
Inexpensive
It’s so inexpensive compared to store-bought vinyl floor cleaners. So, there’s no need to buy expensive vinyl floor cleaners when you likely already have vinegar in your pantry.
Cons of Using Vinegar on Vinyl Floors
However, there are a few downsides to be aware of when using vinegar on vinyl flooring:
Not a Disinfectant
While vinegar removes dirt, it does not sanitize or disinfect floors. If you want to kill germs on your vinyl floors, you’ll need a cleaner with disinfecting properties.
Can Leave a Smell
Some people dislike the lingering smell of vinegar. This is something to keep in mind if you use vinegar to clean vinyl floors. The vinegar scent will fade over time, but some find it unpleasant.
May Not Remove Stains
Depending on the type of stain, vinegar may not be able to remove set-in stains from vinyl flooring. For stubborn spots, a vinyl floor cleaner with surfactants may be more effective.
Requires Rinsing
It’s important to rinse vinyl floors after cleaning with vinegar. Leaving straight vinegar on the floor can lead to etching or discoloration over time. Be sure to wipe up all moisture after rinsing.
How to Clean Vinyl Floors with Vinegar
Cleaning vinyl floors with vinegar is a simple process:
Sweep First
Sweep or vacuum the vinyl flooring to pick up any dirt, debris, pet hair, or crumbs. This prevents spreading grime around while mopping.
Make a Vinegar Solution
Mix 1 cup white vinegar per gallon of warm water in a bucket. For tougher dirt, you can use 1⁄2 cup vinegar per gallon of water. Never use straight vinegar.
Mop the Floor
Dip a mop into the vinegar solution, wring it out so it’s damp but not dripping. Mop the vinyl flooring, rinsing the mop often. Work in sections and change the water as needed.
Rinse the Floor
Go over the floor again with just clean water to remove any vinegar residue. Make sure no puddles are left behind.
Allow to Dry
Let the vinyl floor air dry completely before walking on it. The vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries.
Alternatives to Vinegar for Cleaning Vinyl
While vinegar is safe for routine vinyl floor cleaning, some homeowners prefer using other natural options:
Mild Dish Soap
A small amount of mild, unscented dish soap diluted in warm water can clean everyday dust and dirt from vinyl floors without leaving behind a soap film. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda onto vinyl floors, let sit briefly, then scrub gently with a soft bristle brush and rinse. Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive to lift dirt.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 4 parts water and use to mop vinyl floors. The bubbling action helps remove staining and disinfects. Rinse completely after mopping.
Maintaining Vinyl Floors Between Cleanings
To keep vinyl floors looking their best:
- Sweep, dust mop, and vacuum frequently to prevent dirt buildup.
- Wipe up spills right away to prevent stains and water damage.
- Use doormats at entrances to reduce tracked-in dirt and grit that can scratch vinyl.
- Avoid using too much water when cleaning. Excess moisture can seep into vinyl plank seams.
- Don’t use steam cleaners or wax polishes on vinyl floors. Follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines.
When to Call a Professional for Vinyl Floor Cleaning
While regular vinegar cleaning works for daily vinyl floor maintenance, there are times it pays to call in a professional. So, call a professional for vinyl floor cleaning if you have to:
- Deep cleaning etched, heavily stained, or extremely dirty vinyl floors.
- Remove tough spots like glue residue or grease drips. Professionals have heavy-duty cleaners.
- Polish scuffed or worn vinyl back to a uniform sheen.
- Deal with pet urine that’s seeped deep into vinyl seams.
- Repair peeling vinyl tiles or damaged areas of sheet vinyl
Conclusion
To wrap up: Vinegar is generally safe to use on vinyl floors with some precautions. The acetic acid in vinegar helps remove dirt buildup without damaging the flooring. However, vinegar has limitations when it comes to sanitizing, removing stains, and needing to be rinsed off thoroughly. So, always refer to the manufacturer’s care recommendations for your specific vinyl flooring. With proper care, vinegar can be an economical, eco-friendly way to extend the life of vinyl flooring before replacement is needed.