Linoleum floors sure bring back memories, don’t they? That patterned flooring was so popular back in the day. Though linoleum is durable, after years of wear and tear, it’s common to see it fade, turn yellowed, and look worse for wear. Yellowish stains and dark scuff marks made the flooring look dingy and outdated.
If this sounds like your linoleum floors, don’t despair! With some cleaning know-how and good old-fashioned elbow grease, you can restore that colorful retro flooring to its original glory.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to clean yellowed linoleum floors. Continue reading
Assessing the Floor
Before deciding on a cleaning method, take some time to assess the current condition of the linoleum flooring. There are a few factors to consider:
Type of Linoleum
There are a few varieties of linoleum that were popular over the decades:
- Plain solid color linoleum – This type consists of solid sheets of linoleum in various colors like red, green, black and white.
- Marbled patterned linoleum – Has an intricate marbled pattern through the entire sheet.
- Vinyl asbestos tiles contain asbestos fibers, making them more durable.
Knowing the type of linoleum you’re working with will help determine the cleaning approach. For example, patterned linoleum may require more delicate scrubbing to avoid damaging the design.
Severity of Yellowing
Evaluate how yellowed or faded the floors are. If there are just some faint yellow spots, a simple cleaning may do the trick. But if the yellowing is more prominent throughout, then a deeper cleaning will be required. Look in corners, under furniture, and other areas that don’t get walked on as much to see if the yellowing is worse in those spots.
Condition of Floor
Check if there are any cracked, broken or missing tiles. Repairing these beforehand will help the overall appearance. Also take note of any stains or spills that may need extra attention. If there are deep grease stains or remnants of old tape adhesive, make sure to have a stain remover on hand in addition to your other cleaners.
Age of Flooring
If you know approximately when the linoleum was first installed, this can give clues to how easily it may clean up. This is because older floors from the 1950s-60s will likely require more intensive scrubbing than linoleum floors from the 70s.
Cleaning Solutions for Yellowed Linoleum
With the assessment complete, you can now focus on choosing the right cleaning solutions and methods for tackling the yellowed linoleum. Here are some effective options:
Baking Soda
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and helps remove yellow discoloration. Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of warm water. Use a mop to apply the solution and let sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Can be used on all types of linoleum.
Hydrogen Peroxide
As a bleaching agent, hydrogen peroxide can help restore color. Mix 1 cup hydrogen peroxide with 1 gallon of warm water. Apply to floor and let sit 20-30 minutes before rinsing. Be careful using this on patterned linoleum, as it may bleach the design.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner good for removing stains, dirt and yellowing. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Use a scrubbing brush and elbow grease to work the solution into any stubborn yellowed areas. Safe for all linoleum types.
Ammonia
For heavily yellowed linoleum, try an ammonia based cleaner. Mix 1⁄2 cup clear household ammonia with 1 gallon of warm water. Work over the floor using a mop or scrub brush. Rinse thoroughly. Work in a ventilated area. Avoid if you have patterned linoleum.
Distilled White Vinegar
For extra cleaning power, use distilled white vinegar instead of regular white vinegar. It contains a higher percentage of acetic acid to help dissolve stubborn stains. Mix with warm water and scrub into flooring.
Oxalic Acid
As a stronger acid, oxalic acid helps remove set-in yellowing that other cleaners can’t touch. Make a mild mixture of 1-2 tablespoons oxalic acid powder per 1 gallon of warm water. Spot test first and always rinse thoroughly. Use appropriate skin and eye protection when handling oxalic acid.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
With your chosen cleaners assembled, follow these steps to thoroughly clean the yellowed linoleum floors:
1. Sweep and Vacuum
Use a broom or vacuum to remove any dust or debris from the flooring. This prevents spreading dirt around during the wet cleaning process. Get into corners and baseboards.
2. Apply Cleaner
Working in small sections, use a mop, rag or scrub brush to apply your chosen cleaner to the floor. Let it sit for the recommended time before rinsing. Reapply to stubborn areas as needed. Start with the least aggressive cleaner first.
3. Scrub Tough Stains
Use a scrub brush, old toothbrush or bristle brush to work cleaners into heavily stained or yellowed spots. The light abrasion will help break down the discoloration. Apply some elbow grease to those problem areas. Rinse thoroughly before moving to the next section.
4. Rinse
Rinse the floors several times with clean water to remove all cleaner residue. Dirt and buildup can remain if the floor isn’t rinsed properly. Change rinse water frequently. Check that all suds and cleaner is removed.
5. Let Dry
Once floors are rinsed, allow them ample time to completely air dry. Place fans nearby to help speed up drying time. Don’t walk on floors until totally dry. The moisture needs to completely evaporate.
6. Apply Finish
For extra luster and protection, apply 1-2 thin coats of linoleum floor finish. This clear acrylic finish enhances the color and gives a nice polished look. Use a clean finish mop and work in small sections. Allow each coat to dry before adding another.
7. Cure Time
Allow finish to cure for 12-24 hours before walking on floors. This ensures the finish sets properly without tracking. Keep pets off floors during this time too. Open windows to circulate air and speed curing.
8. Replace Flooring (If Needed)
If certain sections of linoleum are beyond cleaning and restoring, you may need to replace those portions. Measure the floor area and purchase new linoleum tiles or sheets that closest match your existing pattern and color. Use a heat gun to soften the adhesive and remove old tiles. Lay new tiles following manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips for Preventing Future Yellowing
To help keep your linoleum floors looking fresh long-term, keep these tips in mind:
- Use floor mats at entrances to reduce dirt tracked inside
- Sweep, mop and vacuum floors frequently
- Apply floor finish once a year for added protection
- Use only pH neutral cleaners recommended for linoleum
- Clean spills quickly to prevent staining & discoloration
- Keep HVAC system and vents clean to minimize dust/debris settling on floors
- Periodically re-apply new coats of floor finish
- Consider waxing for extra luster and stain resistance
- Install UV window film to reduce sun exposure leading to fading
- Rearrange area rugs and furniture periodically to allow even aging
- Inspect floors annually for any yellowed or worn areas developing
Conclusion
After reading through this article, you’re now armed with the knowledge to take on your yellowed linoleum floors! I hope you feel empowered knowing there are solutions to restore the vibrancy and color back into your vintage flooring.
While it may take some elbow grease and patience, just imagine how satisfying it will feel to step back and admire your freshly cleaned floors.
