You can use a steam mop to clean your luxury vinyl plank flooring; however, there are certain precautions to consider. A steam mop is an ideal alternative to traditional mops that use water. It is known that moisture weakens glue bonds, and this causes sections of the floor to deform or warp.
Steam mops use steam power to clean dirty vinyl plank floors that are sensitive to water exposure. They effectively safeguard vinyl flooring by reducing contact with plain water.
The standard steam mop features a reservoir attached to a mop head cover that uses a microfiber mop pad. After turning it on, the heater heats water to about 20 degrees, thus generating enough steam for the job. This heat is gently passed through the surface to clean the floor effectively. Its top adhesive layer consists of a transparent PVC that reacts to high heat, so handling the floor cleaner with care is essential.ย
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Vinyl Floors
Reports and studies show that steam mops destroy vinyl plank floors. This is the case for instances where the produced steam penetrated the vinyl planks causing damage to the fibrous core.
As much as they seem to be the ideal tool for the job, there are certain precautions to take.ย
It is common to find people using detergents and other shine products on their precious vinyl plank flooring. Instead of the cleaners adding the intended spark, they create a dull effect. The solution is to opt for cleaning detergents recommended for vinyl floors and avoid ammonia-based products that will crack the floor.
Abrasive cleaners with hard scrubs or bristled brooms delaminate the floorโs surface. As much as they are ideal for removing stubborn stains, especially food stains, on other floors, these tools easily take the shine away when used. It is also best to avoid using beater-bar attachments as you vacuum the vinyl plank floor.
Quick strokes are the best way to use your steam mop to clean. It is advisable to avoid holding the steam mop on a single spot for a long time, like 20-30 minutes, to avoid creating moisture build-up at the joints. Another helpful tip is to always ensure there are no grain particles that might scratch the delicate floor surface.
Steam mops pose a threat to any luxury laminate flooring. The chances of these surfaces becoming damaged increases with regular cleaning. That is why avoiding using these mops for daily cleaning is best. One can instead opt for these ideal deep cleaning tips to ensure their space stays clean.
The Best Way to Clean Vinyl Plank Floors
Moisture is the number one enemy of vinyl plank flooring, and one of the best ways to minimize your floorโs exposure to it is by using a steam mop. It is important to note that the steam mop can damage the bases; however, this is not the case for those who choose to follow this proper cleaning and maintenance program. These helpful tips include:
Sweeping The Floor Regularly
The best way to clean floors is to use a soft broom or brush to remove dirt and debris. This is the ideal method and one can do it frequently; it is recommended to clean under heavy furniture daily.
Another alternative is to vacuum or get a microfiber cloth pad for daily use. If you choose the vacuum option, always remember to raise or obliterate the beater bar to avoid upsetting the floor setting.
Mop The Floor Once A Week
Feel free to use your mop to thoroughly clean the floor once a week. This helps to do away with dust particles. The vinyl floor and carpet cleaner release the correct amount of moisture that doesnโt promote bacterial growth. It is also recommended to use neutral pH cleaners. They are effective in the removal of dust particles.
Besides using brooms or the occasional steam mop, dry mops are good daily cleaning alternatives. These mops lack mop water or moisture that can cause the glue to weaken and the floor to disintegrate.
Signs To Stop Using Steam Mop on Vinyl Plank Flooring
Cleaning vinyl plank floors with steam mops requires a skill most people havenโt mastered yet. This is why it is common to find people repairing or renovating their floors due to the damages caused. That is why it is essential to take note of the following signs that indicate itโs time to stop using these mops on a delicate floor.
Warping
Several factors make vinyl floors warp, such as heat, moisture, or poor installation. If you begin using a steam mop and notice these warps, the floor is getting too much heat. It is best to stop steam mopping it and replace the affected region. Another alternative is to get one with temperature control features.
Bubbles on the Floor
The immediate effect of interfering with the adhesive holding the vinyl floor planks is the presence of bubbles. Its leading cause is areas that are exposed to high temperatures. This situation can prove hectic if it is not repaired and moisture begins to penetrate. Therefore, staying on the lookout for these bubbles and contacting qualified contractors to plan a repair program is crucial.
Discoloration
Another effect of intense heat on vinyl flooring is discoloration, which never goes unnoticedโneglecting this condition results in further discoloration that will demand floor replacement. This can also result from too much light or hot water exposure, but if youโve used a steam mop, itโs time to stop. In such a case, try using lemon juice or hot water and white vinegar to remove the dirt.
Conclusion
It is possible to use steam mops to clean vinyl plank floors; however, it is crucial to understand the correct way to do it. Long heat exposure damages this tile flooring and it is good to conduct the process in quick strokes. This review highlights all these essential facts and gives insight into the best cleaning method and maintenance program.
