Can You Steam Clean Vinyl Floors? Why You Should Be Cautious With This Flooring Type
The wrong cleaning method could ruin your vinyl floors
Highlights
Heat and moisture can damage vinyl floors, so steam cleaning is not recommended.
Some vinyl floor manufacturers may allow steam cleaning on low heat.
A better option for cleaning vinyl floors is to use a vacuum and mop.
Properly maintaining your vinyl floors can help prolong their life.
Vinyl is a durable and attractive alternative to hardwood floors often used in high-traffic areas where other flooring materials could be damaged. But like any other material, your vinyl floor needs regular cleaning to stay in good shape. If you have a steam mop at home, you may wonder, “Can you steam clean vinyl floors?” The answer depends on your floor manufacturer and the type of steam mop you have. Learn when to use a steam cleaner on vinyl floors and when to opt for a gentler cleaning method.
When to Use a Steam Cleaner on Vinyl Floors
You can use a steam cleaner on vinyl floors in some cases, but those cases are limited. Intense heat and moisture can damage vinyl floors beyond repair. However, some vinyl flooring is labeled safe for steam mops, and steam mops with lower heat settings can safely be used on vinyl floors.
Check the floor manufacturer’s recommended cleaning instructions before using a low-heat steam cleaner on vinyl floors. You can proceed cautiously if the manufacturer lists steam as an acceptable cleaning method. If not, using steam could void the manufacturer’s warranty.
When Not to Use a Steam Cleaner on Vinyl Floors
Vinyl floors can be sensitive to heat and moisture, both of which steam mops abundantly produce. Using a steam mop on vinyl floors can cause several potential issues:
Warping or peeling
Lifting or shifting
Swelling
Mold or mildew growth
Hot steam can penetrate the floor’s seams and edges, seeping between planks or tiles and causing structural damage. If moisture absorbs through the floor’s layers, it can cause them to warp or peel. And if the moisture gets underneath the flooring, it may lift and move around the room—not to mention the added potential for mold and mildew.
Given these potential issues, it’s best to look for alternative cleaning methods to keep your vinyl floors in good shape. Alternatively, hire a local house cleaner who knows the best strategies and cleaning solutions for keeping vinyl floors in tip-top shape. House cleaners cost between $120 and $240, with an average cost of $170 per visit.
Other Ways to Clean Vinyl Floors
The safest way to clean vinyl floors is with a vacuum cleaner, a traditional mop, and a few common household supplies.
Vacuum or sweep thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. Buff out any scuff marks with WD-40 and wipe away sticky stains with a soft brush. Once you’ve prepped the floor, get your mop and one of the following cleaners.
Dish soap: Mix several drops of regular dish soap with a bucket of warm water.
Vinegar: Dilute a cup of white or apple cider vinegar in a gallon of warm water.
Floor cleaner: Your local grocery or big box store probably carries many different floor cleaners. Before using a store-bought cleaner, check the label to ensure it’s safe for vinyl.
Mop your vinyl floors with your chosen cleaner, wringing out the mop thoroughly to avoid oversaturating the floors. Rinse the mop regularly and change out the water and cleaning solution if it’s looking dirty. Then, let the floors air dry and enjoy the sparkle.
Vinyl Floor Maintenance Tips
Vinyl flooring costs an average of $2,565 to install, so proper care is essential to making your investment last. Follow these tips to maintain your vinyl floors so they will last for years.
Vacuum and mop the floors regularly
Place doormats at entrances to reduce dirt and grime
Use rugs in high-traffic areas to prevent damage
Use protective pads to prevent furniture from scratching the floor
Place absorbent rugs or mats near water sources
Clean up spills as soon as they happen to prevent stains and damage
Prevent fading from UV light using curtains and window film
Leave shoes at the door
Keep pets’ nails trimmed to avoid scratching the floors
Frequently Asked Questions
The best way to clean vinyl floors is to vacuum or sweep away debris and then mop the floors using a mixture of warm water and dish soap or vinegar. You can also use store-bought cleaners if they’re marked safe for vinyl surfaces.
Avoid steam cleaning unsealed hardwood, vinyl, and laminate floors unless the manufacturer explicitly states that a steam mop can be used.
Steam-cleaning a floor is faster and easier than using a traditional mop. The steam also sanitizes the floor and kills bacteria and dust mites, creating a healthier environment. However, steam can ruin certain floor materials, including vinyl, so it’s not always the best option.
Vinegar is an excellent cleaner for vinyl flooring and won’t ruin the material. Mopping the floor with a cup of vinegar diluted in a gallon of warm water can make it sparkle.