How To Clean Discolored Vinyl Flooring?

Last Updated on October 15, 2023 by admin

Discolored vinyl flooring is a common occurrence, especially in high-traffic areas. Cleaning it properly and regularly can not only help keep the discoloration at bay but also extend the life of your floors.

What Is Vinyl Flooring Made Of?

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic material made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC . It’s a durable and popular choice for many homeowners because it resists water damage and is easy to maintain. Vinyl flooring comes in tiles, planks, or sheets installed on almost any subfloor surface.

Why Does Vinyl Flooring Discolor?

Trapped moisture: Moisture can become trapped beneath vinyl flooring, causing discoloration and staining. This occurs when the sealant between the vinyl and the subfloor begins to break down, allowing moisture to seep in from below.

Mould and mildew growth: If moisture has been allowed to build up beneath the vinyl, mold, and mildew can develop over time and cause discoloration. Additionally, if any liquid is spilled on top of the vinyl flooring and not cleaned up immediately, it can cause staining .

Improperly applied adhesives: If the adhesive used to lay down the vinyl flooring was incorrectly applied, it could cause discoloration. This is often due to a lack of knowledge or experience properly using adhesives for this material.

Reacting to chemical changes: Vinyl can be sensitive to environmental changes. For example, if you use a cleaning product that is too harsh for the material, it can cause discoloration or staining.

Damaged by sunlight: Vinyl flooring exposed to too much sunlight can start to fade over time. To avoid this, ensure the area is well-shaded and covered with drapes or blinds if possible.

Things Required For Cleaning

• Baking soda
• Water
• Cloth
• Bowl

  

How To Clean Discolored Vinyl Flooring?

Fill the bowl with water: Fill a large bowl with warm water and add a few drops of liquid, non-abrasive detergent. Once the water is ready, you can begin cleaning the discolored flooring.

Add baking soda to it: Once the water is ready, add some baking soda to the water and mix it until it dissolves. This will help remove stubborn stains without damaging the vinyl flooring.

Apply the paste on the floor with a cloth: Take a clean cloth and dip it in the water and detergent mixture. Gently rub the paste onto the discolored area of vinyl flooring. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the baking soda to work its magic.

Rub the floor gently: Take a damp cloth and gently rub the discolored area to remove any dirt, debris, or stains. Rinse it off with warm water if necessary.

Wipe the baking soda residue with another cloth: Use a clean cloth to wipe away any remaining baking soda residue.

Allow it to dry completely: Allow the vinyl flooring to dry completely before you put anything back in place. This will help prevent any further discoloration from happening.

Apply a sealant for protection: To protect the vinyl flooring and prevent future discoloration, apply a sealant or urethane coating to the floor. This will help keep it looking its best for years to come.

What Causes Yellow Stains on Vinyl Flooring?

Bleach and harsh chemicals: Bleach and other harsh chemicals can leave your vinyl flooring with yellow or white spots and discoloration.

Heat: High temperatures from the sun, direct heaters, or open flames can also cause discoloration on vinyl floors.

Heat: High temperatures from the sun, direct heaters, or open flames can also cause discoloration on vinyl floors.

Oil-Based Stains: Grease and oil-based stains can leave a yellowish discoloration on your vinyl flooring if not immediately wiped up.

Residue: Over time, residue from soaps, detergents, and other cleaning products can build up on the surface of your vinyl flooring and cause discoloration.

Rubber rugs: Rubber-backed rugs can sometimes leave a yellowish stain on your vinyl flooring.

Dirt: When dirt and debris accumulate on your vinyl floor, it can cause discoloration.

Best Things For Cleaning Vinyl Floors

Baking Soda: Baking soda is an effective way to clean discolored vinyl flooring. Mix baking soda with warm water and apply the paste to the stained area with a soft cloth or brush. Use a circular motion to work the mixture into the stain, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

Lemon: Lemon is a powerful natural cleaner that can remove discoloration from vinyl flooring. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and warm water and apply it to the stained area with a soft cloth or brush. Scrub gently in circular motions until the stain is gone, then wipe away with a damp cloth.

Rubbing Alcohol: Rubbing alcohol is an effective way to remove discoloration from vinyl flooring. Dilute with water and apply the mixture to the stained area with a soft cloth or brush. Work in circular motions until the stain is gone, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

Dish Soap: Dish soap is an effective way to clean discolored vinyl flooring. Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water and apply the mixture to the stained area with a soft cloth or brush. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

Vinyl Floor Cleaner: Vinyl floor cleaner is specifically designed to clean and restore vinyl floors. Follow the instructions on the product to ensure the best results when removing discoloration from your vinyl flooring.

How To Prevent Vinyl Flooring From Discolored?

Change furniture and rug position often: Moving furniture and rugs regularly can help prevent the discoloration of vinyl flooring. The sunlight shining in from windows and the weight of furniture or rugs sitting in one spot over a long period are some of the main causes of discolored vinyl flooring.

Using the right window coverings: Consider investing in light-filtering window coverings such as blinds or shades. This will help to filter out the UV rays from the sun and reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your room, which can help protect your vinyl flooring from discoloration.

Clean the subfloor well before installation: Before installing new vinyl flooring, ensure the subfloor is clean and free of any dirt or debris. Any residue left on the subfloor can cause discoloration over time.

Use cleaners specifically designed for vinyl: To help keep your vinyl flooring looking its best and prevent discoloration, use a cleaning solution specifically designed for vinyl flooring. Please avoid using harsh chemical cleaners as these can damage the finish of the vinyl and leave it vulnerable to more discoloration.

How To Maintain Vinyl Flooring?

Sweep often: Regularly sweeping your vinyl flooring will help keep it looking new. Use a soft-bristled broom or vacuum to remove dirt and debris that can scratch and discolor the surface. Avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners on vinyl flooring, as these can damage the material.

Vacuum weekly: Vacuuming your vinyl flooring weekly is essential to keep it looking its best. Use a gentle suction setting and move the vacuum over the entire surface, including corners and edges. You may also want to use a damp mop or cloth periodically to remove any stubborn dirt buildup.

Don’t often mop: Mopping your vinyl flooring too often can cause it to become dull and discolored. If mopping the surface, use a soft cloth head and mild detergent or cleaning solution specifically designed for vinyl floors. Be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals, which can damage the material and lead to discoloration.

Preserve the finish: Vinyl flooring has a protective coating that helps to keep it looking like new. To preserve this finish, use felt pads on furniture legs and rubber mats in high-traffic areas. You should also avoid dragging heavy objects across the surface, as these can cause scratches and discoloration.

Don’t steam mop: Steam mopping can cause damage to vinyl floors as heat and moisture can penetrate the surface. Only use a damp mop or cloth and mild cleaner when cleaning your floor. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, which can also lead to discoloration.

The milder, the better: It is best to use mild, environmentally-friendly cleaners on vinyl floors, as these will not damage the surface. If you need to deep clean your flooring, choose a pH-balanced cleaner specifically designed for vinyl surfaces. Be sure to read all instructions carefully before applying any cleaning solution.

Use The Right Cleaning Techniques: When cleaning vinyl flooring, it is important to use the proper techniques. Start by using a soft-bristled broom or vacuum to remove any dirt and debris from the surface. Then thoroughly clean the floor with a damp mop or cloth, using gentle circular motions. Rinse and dry the area completely before allowing anyone to walk on it.

Use Suitable Cleaners: Choose a cleaning solution suitable for vinyl flooring, as some cleaners can damage the surface . Avoid using vinegar, ammonia, or abrasive scrubbing pads on your vinyl flooring, as these can strip away the protective finish and lead to discoloration. For best results, use a cleaner specially designed for vinyl flooring and follow all instructions carefully.

FAQs

How do you clean mold on vinyl flooring?

Mold can form on vinyl flooring due to moisture and humidity. Mix one cup of bleach with a gallon of warm water to clean the mold. Using a sponge or soft cloth, scrub the area with the solution until the mold is gone. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry completely.

How do I clean luxury vinyl flooring tiles?

Luxury vinyl flooring tiles are typically easier to clean than regular ones due to their durable surface coating. Clean, sweep, or vacuum the area first to remove any dirt or debris. Then, mix a mild soap solution and warm water and use a mop or soft cloth to gently scrub the tile’s surface. Rinse the floor.

How do I clean laminate vinyl plank flooring?

Laminate vinyl plank flooring is designed to be water and stain-resistant, making it easy to clean. Sweep or vacuum the floor first to remove any dirt or debris on the surface. Then, mix a mild soap solution and warm water and use a mop to clean the area. Rinse with clean water and dry.

Can I Remove Old Discoloration From My Vinyl?

Old discoloration on vinyl flooring can be challenging to remove. To do so, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Scrub the area with the solution until the discoloration is gone. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Can black stains on vinyl flooring be removed?

Black stains on vinyl flooring can be caused by mildew or mold. Mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of warm water to clean. Using a sponge or soft cloth, scrub until the stain is gone. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Conclusion

No matter what type of discoloration is present on your vinyl flooring, there are methods to clean and restore its original beauty. Simple maintenance, such as vacuuming and spot cleaning regularly, can prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and other substances that may lead to discoloration. For tougher stains, use a mild detergent and a non-abrasive scrubbing pad to remove the discoloration. When all else fails, professional cleaning services can be used for deep cleaning and restoration of your vinyl flooring. You can keep your vinyl floor looking its best for years with proper care.