How to Clean Vinyl Plank Flooring (and What Not to Use)

1. Sweep, dust-mop or vacuum to pick up grit. Use a hard-floor setting or turn the beater bar off.

2. Damp-mop with warm water and a few drops of a pH-neutral floor cleaner made for vinyl or luxury vinyl plank.

3. Wring the mop out well. Vinyl plank is waterproof, but you still do not want standing water sitting in the seams.

4. Let it air-dry, or dry high-traffic spots with a microfiber mop.

Steam mops: heat and steam can damage the wear layer and the locking edges.

Wax, polish, oil soaps and "mop and shine" products: they leave a film that dulls the finish and traps dirt.

Bleach, ammonia and harsh solvents.

Abrasive powders, scouring pads and stiff brushes.

Rubber-backed or latex-backed mats, which can stain vinyl. Use mats labeled safe for vinyl floors.

Spills: blot them up right away. A waterproof core means water will not ruin the plank, but sugary drinks get sticky.

Scuff marks: rub gently with a soft cloth or a tennis ball, then damp-mop.

Sticky spots: a little pH-neutral cleaner on a microfiber cloth. Do not scrape with a blade.

Put walk-off mats at every outside door; most scratches come from grit, not shoes.

Put felt pads under chairs, tables and furniture feet, and use floor protectors under heavy appliances.

Keep pet nails trimmed. A thicker wear layer (20 to 28 mil) hides wear much longer; see our guide to wear layers.

Lift furniture when you move it instead of dragging it.

Each manufacturer publishes care instructions for its floors, and following them protects your warranty. If you bought from 254 Floors, call (254) 332-2272 in Waco or (512) 355-5120 in Liberty Hill and we will tell you what your floor's manufacturer recommends.