Vinegar is the best solution for cleaning vinyl floors. It not only cleans the floor but makes it germs free.
Various types of vinegar are available, but apple cider vinegar is the most effective. It immediately kills the bacteria on the vinyl floor and makes it look shiny and clean.
However, improper use of strong Vinegar may damage your floors or cause discoloration problems.
Vinegar can be used for cleaning in a variety of ways. In today’s article, we will discuss some of the best ways to clean vinyl floors with vinegar.
Why Use Vinegar?
Acetic acid, the primary ingredient in vinegar, has a ph of only 2.4, making it a fairly strong acid. Bacteria and other organisms that cause illness and other problems are eaten away by that acid. Also, it helps break down the compounds that make certain messes sticky or difficult to remove.
In most cases, it is best to dilute white vinegar with water, which is the strongest kind. Alternatives such as apple cider vinegar could be milder.
Vinegar can damage porous surfaces such as granite and can eat away wood. However, vinyl is the perfect surface for vinegar.
How Do I Clean My Vinyl Floors With Vinegar?
Vinegar can be used to clean vinyl floors in a few steps.
Preparation
To protect vinyl flooring, place floor mats around entrances to prevent dirt and debris from getting in. It is possible to wash mats, but it traps particles that can harm your floor. Once the finish is gone, vinegar won’t help.
To remove larger dirt and debris from your flooring, you should sweep or vacuum it. As vinyl has a soft surface, you could damage the finish if you mop or clean while there are abrasive particles in the air.
Preparing Your Vinegar
We’re going to use apple cider vinegar because we like the smell. White vinegar will also work. You should use white vinegar to disinfect your floors while you clean. If you want to get rid of odors while cleaning, apple cider is the way to go.
Mix one gallon of hot water with one cup of apple cider vinegar. That’s all there is to it. Any messes will be broken down by the heat and acidity without leaving a residue like soap.
Cleaning Your Floor
To clean, use a soft cloth or mop. You don’t want to damage the finish of your floor by using an abrasive cleaning tool. Acid will do all the work, so it is better to use gentle tools.
After soaking your cleaning tool, gently squeeze out the excess. You don’t want any water to pool up on your cleaning tool as you clean, so keep it damp but without drippings. Clean your floors with the solution, rinsing the mop or rag frequently with clean, hot water to avoid spreading grime.
You can add a few drops of liquid dish soap to help break down stubborn messes and grease if your vinyl has been neglected for a while.
If the vinyl has been cleaned by something that left residue and buildup behind, this step helps. Even though vinegar alone will help clean it, you could shorten the cleaning time if you add soap. Before you finish, just go over it again with vinegar to remove any remaining residue.
What About Stubborn Scuffs?
You can use WD-40 and a soft, clean rag to remove stubborn scuff marks. Rub the scuff gently with the oil until it is removed, and then clean as usual.
What About Stains?
The key to being gentle is to be kind. Combine vinegar and baking soda to make a paste. Rub the stain gently in a circular motion, watching for any signs of scratching. As usual, clean the floors with your vinegar solution once the stain has been removed or lightened.
The same method can be used to remove other types of stains, such as from carpets or clothing. Rubbing’ alcohol removes lipstick, for example. Paint can be removed with mineral spirits. Ensure that the stain remover you use is suitable for vinyl.
Other Considerations
You should dilute your vinegar because the acidity can be too much for your hands. If you’re sensitive to odors, it may also cause respiratory irritation.
You should wear gloves when working with vinegar because hot water and vinegar can irritate the skin.
Do not leave wet puddles on your vinyl. Vinyl is already somewhat slippery, and larger puddles can be hazardous. Instead, ensure that your mop or rag is damp, but not dripping, so that you have enough water to clean, but not so much that it puddles.
Maintaining Your Vinyl Floors
Keep your floors looking great between cleanings with proper maintenance. Entryway rugs keep dirt and debris off the floors, so you don’t scratch them.
Avoid walking on your floors with shoes that can scuff. Hard heels such as those on business shoes or high heels can ruin your vinyl. Also, putting coasters underneath furniture when you have to move it (or permanently if your whole house is vinyl, can prevent damage that vinegar can’t clean out.
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