Sheet Vinyl Flooring Care Guide

Maintaining Your Resilient and Stylish Floor

Sheet vinyl flooring is a practical and versatile choice, known for its water resistance and durability. With the right care, you can preserve its finish, prevent damage, and ensure it remains a clean and attractive feature of your home for many years. This guide provides all the information you need to keep your sheet vinyl flooring in excellent condition.

Core Care & Maintenance

Daily & Weekly Cleaning

A simple, consistent routine is all that’s needed to prevent dirt and grit from scratching the surface.

What to use: A soft-bristle broom, a dust mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a hard floor setting (no rotating brush).
What to avoid: Vacuums with a “beater bar” or rotating brushes, and stiff-bristled brooms. These can scratch or scuff the surface.
Why it’s important: Regular sweeping or vacuuming removes daily dirt and grit, which can act as an abrasive and cause fine scratches over time.

Deep Cleaning

For a more thorough clean, use a gentle cleaning solution and a damp mop.

What to use: A well-wrung, damp mop and a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for vinyl flooring.
What to avoid: Soaking the floor with excessive water, steam mops (as the heat can damage the surface and adhesive), and harsh cleaners containing bleach, ammonia, or abrasives. Never use wax or polish on modern no-wax vinyl floors.
Why it’s important: While sheet vinyl is water-resistant, excessive water can still seep into seams or around the edges, potentially causing the subfloor to get wet and damaging the adhesive. A pH-neutral cleaner will lift dirt without damaging the floor’s protective layer.

Preventive Measures

Preventing damage is easier than repairing it. Follow these tips to protect your sheet vinyl flooring:

Doormats: Place non-rubber-backed mats at all entryways to trap dirt and moisture before it’s tracked onto the floor. Avoid rubber-backed mats as they can cause permanent discolouration.
Furniture: Use felt pads on the legs of all furniture to prevent scratches and dents. When moving heavy furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it across the floor.
Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause discolouration or fading. Consider using blinds or curtains during peak sunlight hours.

Troubleshooting & Stain Removal

For spills and stains, act quickly. Always blot the area immediately rather than rubbing, which can spread the stain. Always test any new cleaning solution on a hidden area of the floor first.

Common Stains (Food, Drink, Grease)

For most everyday spills, a damp cloth with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner is sufficient. For tougher, dried-on stains:

Method: Create a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently scrub with a soft cloth or a nylon brush, then wipe clean with a damp cloth and rinse the area with fresh water.
What to avoid: Abrasive powders and scouring pads that can scratch the floor’s surface.

Scuffs & Heel Marks

For black marks from shoes or scuffs:

Method: Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth. Gently rub the mark until it disappears. Wipe the area with a clean damp cloth afterwards.

Tougher Stains (Ink, Marker, Nail Polish)

For stubborn marks, a stronger approach may be needed, but proceed with caution:

Method: Apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol or acetone-free nail polish remover to a clean cloth. Gently blot the stain, but do not rub vigorously. Once the stain is gone, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth and dry thoroughly.

What to Do About Scratches and Damage

Minor surface scratches on sheet vinyl can sometimes be buffed out using a specialised vinyl floor restorer. For deeper scratches or tears, the damaged section may need to be professionally repaired or, in some cases, the entire sheet may need replacing. Consult with a flooring professional for advice on significant damage.