Cleaning your floors is an investment in the beauty and longevity of your surfaces. Doing so has two primary components: How and What. The answer to each can vary greatly based on the floor type and intent. This includes knowing what materials to avoid based on the surface.

Ready to use an oil-based cleaner on vinyl? STOP! Save it for the hardwood.

What are the best cleaners and techniques for your new flooring?

From daily dusting to monthly routines, read on for our simple guide to cleaning:

• Hardwood
• Vinyl
• Laminate
• Tile

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DAILY TIPS:

• USE THIS: Microfiber Floor Mop and Dusting Pad

• AVOID THIS: Bristle Brooms

Microfiber has 2 primary advantages for hardwood floor cleaning. Unlike bristles, the material does not scratch the delicate surface of various hardwood species. Secondly, microfiber is more effective at trapping dander and allergens, which means less residue left behind.

Techniques: We suggest keeping your microfiber mop on the surface while cleaning. Doing so captures more dirt for less cleaning moving forward, which further protects the floor.

Water spill or pet accident? Turn to a wet cleaning pad that is hardwood approved. Another option is to clean the spill with a dry microfiber towel and follow with a hardwood approved cleaner. Avoid wet mops or towels as this can lead to water damage over time. Use a circular motion with no pressure on the towel when using the cleaner. NO PUSHING DOWN! This helps prevent moisture from seeping into the wood.

WEEKLY TIPS:

• USE THESE: Vacuum with hardwood setting, Microfiber Mop, Hardwood Floor Cleaner

• AVOID THIS: Vinegar and Wet Mops

Vacuuming pick up loose dirt and residue to prep your floor for mopping.  To prevent scratches or gouges, it is essential your vacuum has a setting for hardwood. Be sure to keep the vacuum on the ground rather than pivoting.

Next, use a hardwood cleaner and soft mop to add luster while removing blemishes. Use a microfiber towel and cleaner for hard to reach spaces. Vinegar and water? Save it for the tile and sinks as these can dull the sheen of your hardwood.

Techniques:

Mop with the grain and minimize downward pressure on the surface. Think of it as polishing your hardwood rather than heavy duty cleaning.

MONTHLY TIPS:

• USE THIS: Microfiber Clean Pad, Hardwood Deep Cleaner

• AVOID THIS: Steam cleaners, Vinegar and Water-based Cleaners

A clean pad is a simple extension that attaches to your mop handle for simple cleaning with no backaches or sore knees. The hardwood-approved deep cleaner safely penetrates dirt and grime without moisture damage.

Meanwhile, steer clear of the heavy heat and water of steam cleaners, which are ill-designed for delicate hardwoods.

Techniques: As a ‘quarterly bonus’, consider a hardwood floor polish.  Most cleaning is taking care of the hardwood’s sealant. Think of this as treating the actual underlying wood.

DAILY TIPS:

• USE THIS: Vacuum or Broom

• AVOID THIS: Black Soap, Oil-based products

Sweeping vinyl floors is fast and easy with a soft bristle broom. While the surface is far less prone to scratches than hardwood, avoid hard bristles and opt for a softer material. Microfiber is an alternative that traps more dirt and dander.

Prefer a vacuum? Choose a model with a setting for floors to reduce the risk of gouging or scratches.

Accidents can be treated with a soft towel and water. Consider a mix of water and apple-cider vinegar for more messy mishaps, such as pet urine.

Techniques: Sweep across the surface rather than applying downward force. This picks up more dirt and dander while protecting the floor. For vacuums, rather than pivot and pick up, keep the wheels on the ground to prevent scratches.

WEEKLY TIPS:

Do a once a week clean with a damp mop, like warm water and a neutral detergent. This helps to remove dirt and keep the floor in top condition. Keep in mind that you don’t need a big amount of water to clean your floor and note that light colours often need more frequent cleaning.

Cleaning up stains

Treat stains immediately, for example, spot cleaning by hand with a nylon pad and neutral detergent. Clean from the outside of the stain towards its centre, then rinse and wipe with fresh water.

• oil, vinegar or lemon stains: remove right away as they may cause discoloration on the surface of your vinyl flooring
• ink, tomato or blood stains can be removed by putting very diluted alcohol directly on the stain for a few minutes without scrubbing, then rinse off with water
 
• pen and marker stains are easily cleaned by rubbing with a little white spirit on a cloth and rinsing well with water
• rust should be cleaned with an anti-rust sponge and rinsed off with water

5 Cleaning and Care tips

• Place protective pads (like felt) under heavy furniture, chair and table legs
• Avoid rubber bottoms on objects resting on your vinyl floor – it may cause staining
• Use doormats at entrance ways to prevent dirt or dust from being brought inside and make cleaning easier. About 80% of dirt can be stopped there!
• Clean your floors with natural, soft or neutral detergents
• Keep hot items like heaters, ashes or coals at a safe distance/height from your vinyl floor

Don’t clean vinyl floors with:

Abrasive powders,
Black soap,
Acetone or Solvents,
Wax or varnish,
Oil-based products,
Steam cleaners