The Only Guide You’ll Need for Linoleum Flooring Care

Any Pinoy who has visited their local palengke has likely seen rolls and rolls of linoleum being peddled on the streets. After all, it is popular among those looking for flooring options that are affordable yet extremely durable. Even members of the Home Buddies Facebook group vouch for linoleum’s incredible versatility and long lifespan. 

However, when you want yours to stand the test of time, you must know about proper linoleum flooring care. So, today, we’ll teach you how to clean linoleum floors, remove stains, and even prevent scratches. We’ll also share alternative ways to keep your floor looking fresh and new.

What to Prepare

Before we teach you how to clean linoleum flooring, you must prepare the following:

• Walis tambo

• Microfiber cloth or old towels and rags

• Domex Multi-Thick Bleach

• Hot water

• Mop with bucket

How to Clean Linoleum Flooring

1. Sweep the dust, debris, and dirt

The first step in linoleum floor care is sweeping loose debris and dirt. Remember that linoleum is sensitive to scratching. As such, it’s important to opt for walis tambo instead of the more abrasive tools in your collection of cleaning materials. Use your walis tambo to sweep away any dust, grit, or dirt particles on the floor.

2. Prepare your cleaning solution

It will be easier if you get a spin mop that comes with a bucket. However, if you don’t have this combo, a regular mop and a bucket will suffice. For this step, you need to fill the bucket with hot water. Then, pour two caps full of Domex Multi-Thick Bleach.

3. Mop your linoleum flooring

Dip your mop into the cleaning solution. Then, wring out the excess water so that the mop is slightly damp. When mopping the floor, it’s better to work in smaller sections. This way, you won’t leave too much water, which can damage the surface. After you’ve cleaned a section, dip your mop in the solution again and work on the next section. Repeat this process until you’ve cleaned the entire area.

4. Rinse your linoleum floor

This step will prevent your linoleum floor from becoming dull over time. Discard your bucket of cleaning solution, then replace it with fresh, hot water. Before mopping your floor, we recommend rinsing your mop as well. Once done, you can dip your mop into the bucket and wring out the excess water. Wipe a small floor section and rinse your mop in the bucket. Repeat the process until you’ve cleaned the entire area.

5. Dry your linoleum floor with rags or towels

You can turn on your electric fan and let your floor dry. However, if you want to save electricity and speed up the process, you can use towels or rags. Wipe smaller sections of your floor, ensuring that the cloth absorbs as much moisture as possible. 

Environment-Friendly Method for Cleaning Linoleum Flooring

If you prefer a natural cleaning solution for your linoleum flooring, vinegar would be a great option. Besides, acetic acid, which is the compound’s active component, is a potent disinfectant.[1] So, while using an eco-friendly linoleum flooring care method, you’re also creating a bacteria-free living space. Here are the steps:

1. Pour a gallon of hot water into your bucket, then add a cup of white vinegar.

2. If you don’t like the smell of vinegar, you can add a couple of drops of lemon juice. Doing so will add a fresh citrus scent to the solution.

3. Dip your mop in your DIY disinfectant solution and clean your linoleum floor using the steps we previously shared.

Quick note: You can also read our post about using hydrogen peroxide as a household cleaner to discover alternative linoleum flooring care solutions. 

How to Prolong the Life of Your Linoleum Floors

Linoleum flooring care also involves proper maintenance. Here are some ways you can have long-lasting linoleum floors:

Wipe spills immediately

Excessive moisture can be damaging to linoleum floors. So, wipe spills as soon as you see them on the surface. Moreover, avoid walking on the floor with wet shoes.

Use rugs and mats

To prevent scratches and trapped dirt, we recommend placing rugs or mats in high-traffic areas and entryways. 

Avoid abrasive cleaners

Remember that abrasive cleaners like steel wool and walis tingting can damage your linoleum flooring. So, when dealing with stubborn dirt, we suggest using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Because baking soda is slightly alkaline, it effectively cleans grease, food spills, and oils.[2] For tough dirt and stains, here’s what you have to do:

1. Create a cleaning paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and white vinegar.

2. Apply the paste to the affected area.

3. Let the paste sit on the area for about an hour.

4. Take a damp cloth and wipe off the paste gently.

5. Repeat the process if you see residual dirt.

Keep Your Linoleum Floors Clean 

While linoleum floors are susceptible to scratches, they can stay durable and stunning when you properly care for and maintain them. Diligently follow the tips we shared in this article to prevent damage and keep your flooring clean.

For more floor cleaning and maintenance tips, keep reading Cleanipedia!

Frequently Asked Questions about Linoleum Flooring Care

Q: What is the best cleaner to use on linoleum floors?

White vinegar is the safest option for cleaning linoleum floors. However, it is not the best solution if your aim is to clean and disinfect. If you want the most effective way to kill bacteria, use Domex Multi-Thick Bleach. However, make sure to rinse the solution off to avoid damaging the linoleum.

Q: Can you use vinegar and water on linoleum floors?

Yes, vinegar is a natural cleaner for linoleum floors. However, remember that excessive moisture can damage the material. So, make sure to dry your floors once you’re done mopping them.

Q: Does rubbing alcohol clean linoleum floors?

You can use rubbing alcohol to spot-treat stubborn dirt and grime. 

References:

1. Cortesia, C., Vilchèze, C., Bernut, A., Contreras, W., Gómez, K. M., De Waard, J. H., Jacobs, W. R., Kremer, L., & Takiff, H. (2014). Acetic acid, the active component of vinegar, is an effective tuberculocidal disinfectant. MBio, 5(2). https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.00013-14

2. Selection and use of home cleaning products | New Mexico State University - BE BOLD. Shape the future. (n.d.). https://pubs.nmsu.edu/_g/G304/