How To Care For Vinyl Floors

Caring for Your New Luxury Vinyl Floor:

Congratulations on your new luxury vinyl floor! Protect your investment with these simple care tips.

Immediately following installation

During the first 48 hours after installation:

  • Keep foot traffic to a minimum (recommended).
  • Sweep the floor to remove loose dirt.
  • Use only a non-abrasive cleaner, such as Shaw Floors Hard Surface Cleaner.
  • Do not use a vacuum with a rotating beater bar.
  • Wait 24 hours before putting furniture on the floor (for glue down products).

Following these instructions will ensure proper curing of the product:

  • Use protective mats
    • It is important to use a good quality entry mat to trap dirt, sand, and other substances such as oil that would otherwise be tracked onto your floor. These mats will also help protect your flooring from premature wear. Mats are also suggested at heavy pivot locations, such as in front of your kitchen sink or stove. If mats are placed directly on top of the resilient floors, use mats without latex or rubber backings to avoid possible discoloration.
  • Use chair and appliance pads to protect your vinyl floor
    • Make sure furniture legs have a large surface, non-staining floor protectors. Replace small, narrow metal or dome-shaped glides with smooth, flat guides that are in full contact with the floor. Heavy furniture or appliances that are not moved often should be equipped with flat, non-staining composition furniture casters or cups of appropriate size.
  • Follow a simple maintenance plan
    • The type and frequency of foot traffic on your luxury vinyl floor will determine the frequency of maintenance needed. Regular attention to a simple maintenance program should include:
    • Remove dirt and grit by sweeping or dust mopping daily.
    • Wipe up spills as quickly as possible.
    • Avoid exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.