How to Clean and Maintain Your Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

How to Clean and Maintain Your Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is a top choice for homeowners and designers alike due to its beautiful appearance, durability, and ease of care. Whether your floors resemble rich hardwood, weathered stone, or sleek tile, keeping them in top shape is simple—when you know what to do.

At Oscar Surfaces, we know that proper maintenance not only preserves the beauty of your LVP but also extends its lifespan. In this blog, we’ll guide you through daily cleaning routines, deep-cleaning methods, and essential do’s and don’ts to help you protect your investment and keep your floors looking like new for years to come.

1. Why LVP Is So Easy to Maintain

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring is designed with everyday living in mind. It features a durable wear layer that resists scratches, scuffs, and stains, making it ideal for high-traffic areas, families with kids, and homes with pets. Best of all, LVP is waterproof, which makes it safe to clean with damp mops and ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

But like any flooring, it still needs regular care to look its best.

2. Daily & Weekly Cleaning: Keep It Simple

Daily Maintenance Tips:

• Sweep or vacuum your floors daily (or as needed) to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hard floor setting to avoid scratching.
• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent slips and staining.
• Use doormats at entrances to trap dirt and debris before it gets tracked in.

Oscar Surfaces Tip: Avoid vacuums with beater bars or rotating brushes, as they can damage the wear layer on LVP flooring.

Weekly Cleaning Routine:

• Damp mop your LVP floors once or twice a week using a microfiber mop and a pH-neutral cleaner.
• Avoid soaking the floors. Excess water isn't necessary and could seep into seams if not properly sealed.

You don’t need harsh chemicals or waxes—just a gentle cleaner and a consistent routine.

3. The Best Cleaners for Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors

Choosing the right cleaner can make a big difference. Avoid abrasive or highly alkaline products, as they can strip away the protective layer or leave a dull finish.

Recommended LVP-Friendly Cleaners:

• Diluted white vinegar and warm water (1:1 ratio) for a natural clean
• Store-bought pH-neutral vinyl floor cleaners
• Mild dish soap diluted in water for tougher dirt or grease

Avoid:

• Bleach
• Ammonia
• Abrasive powders
• Steam mops (unless specifically allowed by your LVP manufacturer)

Pro Tip from Oscar Surfaces: Always do a spot test with any new cleaner before applying it to your entire floor.

4. Deep Cleaning and Scuff Removal

Over time, even the most well-maintained floors can collect residue or scuffs. Here’s how to tackle them:

Deep Cleaning Steps:

1. Vacuum or sweep thoroughly.
2. Use a vinyl-safe floor cleaner or vinegar solution and a microfiber mop.
3. For stuck-on grime, gently scrub with a soft sponge or cloth.

Removing Scuffs:

• Use a magic eraser or soft cloth dampened with baking soda paste.
• Rub gently to lift the mark—no need to apply pressure or harsh scrubbing.

Bonus Tip: A dab of jojoba oil or WD-40 can help lift tough marks. Wipe with warm, soapy water afterward to remove residue.

5. Preventative Maintenance: Protecting Your LVP Investment

Protecting your floors is just as important as cleaning them. A few simple practices can go a long way:

Furniture & Heavy Appliances:

• Use felt pads or furniture coasters under chair legs, tables, and couches.
• For rolling chairs, use a protective mat to prevent wear.
• Never drag heavy furniture across LVP flooring.

Area Rugs & Mats:

• Use non-staining rugs in high-traffic areas.
• Avoid rubber-backed rugs, which can cause discoloration over time.
• Entry mats reduce dirt and moisture from outside traffic.

Pet & Kid Tips:

• Trim pets' nails regularly to avoid scratches.
• Use absorbent mats around water bowls.
• Clean spills and accidents as soon as they happen.

6. Seasonal Care Tips

Your luxury vinyl plank floors may be waterproof and resilient, but environmental changes like temperature and humidity can affect them if not addressed properly.

What to Do:

• Keep indoor temperatures consistent—ideally between 60–80°F.
• Use a humidifier or dehumidifier if your home experiences extreme seasonal shifts.
• Allow a small expansion gap during installation to accommodate plank movement.

7. What to Avoid: Common Cleaning Mistakes with LVP

Avoiding a few common mistakes will help keep your LVP in flawless condition:

• Don’t use steam mops unless your manufacturer approves them—moisture and heat can weaken the glue or seams.
• Don’t use wax or polish—LVP doesn’t require them, and they can cause a sticky buildup.
• Don’t flood mop—even though LVP is waterproof, it’s best to avoid pooling water that may seep under planks.
• Don’t use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers—they’ll damage the wear layer and dull the finish.

8. How Long Will LVP Last with Proper Maintenance?

When properly cleaned and maintained, high-quality LVP flooring can last 15–25 years or more. The key factors that influence longevity include:

• Type and thickness of the wear layer
• Quality of installation
• Regular care and cleaning
• Environmental factors like UV exposure and moisture

At Oscar Surfaces, we offer only premium-grade LVP with robust warranties, expert installation, and personalized maintenance advice.

Final Thoughts

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring offers the best of both worlds—stylish looks with low-maintenance living. By adopting a consistent cleaning routine, using the right products, and taking preventative steps, you can ensure your floors stay stunning and strong for years to come.

Whether your LVP is installed in a bustling kitchen, a spa-like bathroom, or an elegant living room, caring for it doesn’t have to be complicated. At Oscar Surfaces, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from selection to maintenance and beyond.

Want personalized LVP care advice or professional cleaning product recommendations?

Contact Oscar Surfaces today or visit OscarSurfaces.com to explore our luxury flooring solutions.