6 Ways to Remove Stains from Vinyl Floors
Vinyl floors are durable and tough against stains, but sometimes you will come across a mark that just won’t seem to budge.
At Mersey Flooring, we will guide you through some effective methods for getting rid of those tough stains that have tarnished your vinyl floor.
Whilst we don’t recommend using chemicals on your vinyl regularly, some situations call for chemical action.
Common Reasons for Stains
There are various causes for vinyl stains. Understanding what leads to stains on your vinyl flooring can help you take the initiative to prevent your floor from staining in the future.
Some common causes of vinyl stains include:
- Spills and splashes: Acidic substances, such as tomato sauce or wine can cause stubborn stains if not cleaned promptly.
- Dirt and grime: Constant wear and tear from shoes and dirt from outside can lead to discolouration.
- Rubber marks: Rubber soles from shoes or pads on furniture can leave stains and scuff marks on vinyl flooring.
- Sunlight and heat exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight and heated appliances can lead to fading, discolouration, or melting.
- Ink and dyes: Dyes from fabrics or ink pens can transfer onto the floor, seeping into the vinyl.
- Moisture and humidity: Excess water from mopping or spills can soak the vinyl, leaving a water stain.
Pre-cleaning Tips
Before you dive into any of the methods below, determine the cause of the stain and how tough it will be to remove.
Then, clear the area of any furniture or obstructions. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove debris, as this can cause scratches whilst cleaning.
To protect the surrounding area, lay down old cloths or towels around the stain. Use masking tape to protect your walls and baseboards from splashes.
6 Ways to Remove Stains
1. Household Detergent
For this, you will need mild detergent, warm water, a soft cloth, a bucket, and a sponge.
Then, follow these steps to remove the stain:
- Mix a small amount of the detergent with warm water in a bucket.
- Dip the cloth or sponge into the solution and wring out any excess water.
- Gently rub the cloth in a circular motion onto the stain, applying moderate pressure.
- Once it’s removed, rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a soft towel.
2. Baking Soda for Tough Stains
Baking soda is ideal for tougher stains. You will need baking soda, water, a sponge or cloth, a bowl, plastic wrap (optional), and mild detergent.
Follow these next steps:
- Add baking soda and water into a bowl to make a paste.
- Apply the paste directly to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub the stain gently with a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse the area thoroughly with water and use a dry cloth to dry the floor.
3. White Vinegar Solution
White vinegar solution can be used for a wide range of stains. Its natural ingredients make it less harsh for your vinyl floor. For this, gather white vinegar, water, a spray bottle, and a microfiber cloth.
Then, complete the following steps:
- Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar into a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution directly onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the area, moving in a circular motion.
- Rinse the area with warm water and dry with a cloth.
4. Rubbing Alcohol for Ink or Makeup Stains
If you have any ink or makeup stains on your vinyl floors, rubbing alcohol can do the trick. For this, you will need rubbing alcohol, cotton balls or pads, mild liquid detergent, a soft cloth, a bucket and warm water.
Then, follow the steps below:
- Mix the rubbing alcohol with warm water and detergent in a bucket.
- Apply the rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball or pad.
- Dab the stained area gently with the alcohol-soaked cotton ball or pad.
- Wipe the area with a cloth and warm water, gently scrubbing to remove any residue.
- Dry the area with a towel.
5. WD-40 for Scuff Marks
WD-40 is popular due to its versatility and strength as a multi-purpose lubricant. This is ideal for removing scuff marks from vinyl floors.
For this, you will need WD-40, a soft cloth, mild liquid detergent, a bucket, and warm water.
Then, do the following:
- Mix a small amount of detergent and warm water in a bucket.
- Shake the WD-40 can well and spray a small amount onto the scuff mark.
- Allow it to sit for 2 minutes, then gently rub the mark with a soft cloth until it disappears.
- Scrub the area with a cloth dipped in the soapy mix to remove any residue.
6. Nail Polish Remover for Tough Marks
Nail polish remover, which contains acetone, is notorious for removing stubborn stains and marks from vinyl floors.
For this, you will need acetone-based nail polish remover, cotton pads or balls, mild liquid detergent, warm water, a cloth and a bucket.
- Mix warm water and a small amount of detergent in a bucket.
- Dip a cotton ball or pad into the nail polish remover and gently dab the stain until it starts to lift.
- Once it's lifted, dip a soft cloth into the detergent solution and clean the area.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry the area with a towel.
How to Prevent Vinyl Stains
There are various ways that you can prevent your vinyl floor from gaining stains. One great tip is to place down a cosy rug. Not only does this protect your floor, but it adds to the appearance of your home.
To prevent people trailing dirt in from their shoes, at a door mat to your door or advise people to take off their shoes before entering. You could also add protective furniture pads to the legs of your furniture to prevent scuffing or dents.
Stick to mild, pH-neutral products when cleaning your floors, as harsh chemicals can damage the wear layer. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can also cause the floor to fade. To avoid this, add blackout blinds and close them during peak sunlight hours.
Choose Mersey Flooring for your Vinyl Floors
At Mersey Flooring, we stock high-quality lVT and SPC vinyl for your bathroom, kitchen, and living room spaces.
Our vinyl is designed to mimic the look of real wood, stone, or ceramic for an aesthetically pleasing home. With a range of styles and designs to choose from, we have something for everyone at Mersey Flooring.