Linoleum flooring is remarkably easy to clean and maintain. Since the color is present throughout, you won't have to
worry about your linoleum floors giving into wear and tear and losing their attractive appearance. Regular maintenance is a
simple process, and the most work you will generally have to do to keep your linoleum flooring looking great is polishing the
floor when it needs it. For those interested in less frequent polishing, check out linoleum floors with pyroxylin lacquer
finishes.
Linoleum Floor Care Products
Prevention and Maintenance
- Before cleaning linoleum floors, consult the manufacturer's maintenance instructions for the best tips on how to
maintain your specific linoleum floor type.
- Only use cleaners formulated for genuine linoleum, especially on floors that have just been installed. Some linoleum
floors require a pre–cleaning before applying polish.
- Periodically polish your linoleum floors to renew their shine and stain resistance. Two thin, even coats are best. You
may want to apply less to areas that are not walked on, in order to prevent polish from building up.
- Polishing can either be done on clean floors with pre–existing polish or on floors that have been stripped.
Stripping is very rarely needed, and usually only necessary on floors that have been improperly cleaned and polished,
allowing dirt to settle in.
- Clean up liquid spills immediately, as standing water can loosen linoleum floor tiles. This shouldn't be a problem on
expertly installed linoleum floors, as polishing will properly seal the seams, but this should still be done as a
precautionary measure.
- Placing mats at entrances will prevent excessive dirt from being tracked in from outdoors.
- You can fix linoleum bubbling without having to replace
the entire floor. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to get rid of linoleum floor bubbles.
- Avoid using harsh cleaners or solvents like ammonia or alkalis. Check the pH level if you're unsure – high or low
pH factors might pit or discolor your linoleum floors.
Care and Cleaning
- Dry maintenance is the best way to keep your linoleum flooring looking great. Loose dirt and dust can be simply swept
or vacuumed away.
- If your linoleum floor needs a bit more cleaning power, try damp mopping with plain water or water combined with a bit
of mild detergent.
- Small scratches or burns can be buffed out using a nylon brush or cleaning pad. A small amount of water–based
polyurethane over the area will return its natural glow.
- Deeper gouges or scratches may be cut out of the linoleum floor and replaced with new material. This is best done by a
professional linoleum flooring installer. Repairs may be visible, so be careful not to gouge the floor too deeply.
- To brighten up your linoleum flooring without adding another coat of polish, simply add a small amount of baby oil to
tepid water and mop the floor with it.
For immediate help from a flooring professional or fellow remodeler, you use our Flooring Forums.
