👍What’s the Best Way to Clean COREtec Flooring: 5 Methods
Methods
Things You Need
Dust, sweep, or vacuum
Soft-bristled brush or Vacuum without a beater bar
Water and apple cider vinegar solution
Water Apple cider vinegar Mop or cloth
Auto scrubber
Auto scrubber 3M 5100 Red Buffer pad Damp microfiber mop/cloth
Baking soda
Baking soda Water Mop or cloth
Use pH-neutral cleaning solutions (Encore, Bona)
pH-neutral cleaning solution Mop or cloth
🧹Method 1: Dust, Sweep, or Vacuum
Preparation: Ensure the floor area of your vinyl plank flooring is clear of any obstacles for easy cleaning.
Dusting: Before sweeping, use a microfiber cloth or a duster to gently remove loose dirt, dust, and debris from the vinyl floor. This step helps prevent scratching during subsequent cleaning.
it can be useful only if some areas of the floor cannot be reached by a broom or vacuum (which is rare).
Sweeping: Choose a soft-bristled broom or brush to sweep the floor. Start from one end and work to the other, collecting dirt and debris into a dustpan. Be gentle to avoid scratching the vinyl flooring.
Vacuuming: If you prefer a vacuum cleaner for your luxury vinyl flooring, opt for one without a beater bar attachment. It prevents the vacuum from potentially damaging the floor’s surface. Use a soft brush attachment or turn off the beater bar if present.
🍎Method 2: Water and Apple Cider Vinegar Solution
Apple cider vinegar is mildly acidic and can help break down grime without harming the floor.
Solution Preparation: Mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar in a bucket.
Damp Mop Preparation: Dip a mop or a cloth into the solution and wring it out. Make sure it’s damp but not dripping wet.
Cleaning: Start cleaning vinyl plank floors using the damp mop. Work in small sections, moving methodically across the area.
Rinsing: Follow up with a clean cloth to ensure that no vinegar residue is left on the floor.
🔴Method 3: Auto Scrubber With 3M 5100 Red Buffer Pad
The 3M 5100 Red pad is mildly abrasive and can help remove dirt and grime.
Auto Scrubber Setup: Set up the auto scrubber according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Attach the 3M 5100 Red pad to the machine.
Cleaning: Use the auto scrubber to clean the floor.
Finishing Touch: After using the auto scrubber, go over the floor with a damp mop or microfiber cloth. This step helps remove any remaining residue and leaves the floor looking polished.
Baking soda is a mild abrasive effective for tackling stubborn stains.
Paste Preparation: Mix baking soda and water in a bowl to create a thick paste. Start with a small amount of baking soda (about 1/4 cup) and add water gradually until the paste forms.
Application: Apply the baking soda paste to the stubborn stains on the floor. You can use a mop or cloth to spread the paste evenly over the stains.
Scrubbing: Gently scrub the stains using a circular motion. Avoid applying excessive pressure, as this could scratch the floor. The baking soda paste will help lift the stains.
Rinsing and Drying: Use a clean, damp mop or cloth to wipe away the baking soda residue after scrubbing. Follow up with a dry cloth to ensure the floor is completely dry.
Solution Application: Dilute the pH-neutral cleaning solution (Encore, Bona, or any other brand) according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Typically, you’ll mix a certain amount of the solution with water. Common ratios are 1:10 (1 part solution to 10 parts water) or 1:4 (1 part solution to 4 parts water). Always check the label for specific guidance.
Mopping: Dip a mop or cloth into the solution and wring it out well. Clean vinyl plank flooring in sections, ensuring not to oversaturate with the cleaning solution.
Cleaning: Wipe the floor using a damp mop or cloth.
Drying: Allow the floor to air dry, or use a clean, dry mop or cloth to speed up the drying process. It will help prevent any water spots or streaks.
Note:
Remember to exercise caution when polishing products and avoid using harsh solutions or detergents that could damage your beautiful COREtec flooring.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners, which can scratch and damage the floor’s protective layer.
Additionally, wax-based products should be avoided as they can leave a sticky residue on the floor’s surface.
Be cautious when moving heavy appliances like refrigerators and ranges, as their weight can potentially dent or damage the COREtec floor.
Can you use Bona on COREtec flooring?
Yes, you can use Bona floor cleaning products on COREtec flooring. Bona products are known for compatibility with luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, such as COREtec. They are designed to effectively clean the floor without leaving behind any residue.
Can you wet mop on COREtec flooring?
Yes, you can wet mop COREtec flooring, but avoid using excessive water. Too much water can seep between the planks and cause damage over time. Ensure that the mop is only damp and not dripping wet while cleaning.
Can you steam clean COREtec flooring?
It’s not recommended to use steam cleaning on COREtec flooring.
The high heat and moisture from steam can penetrate the seams and cause the planks to swell or warp.
This can lead to permanent damage to the flooring. Stick to methods that use damp, not wet, cleaning techniques.
Can you use vinegar and water on COREtec flooring?
Yes, you can use vinegar and water solution to clean COREtec flooring. Mix a small amount of vinegar with water to create a gentle cleaning solution.
However, it’s important not to use an excessively acidic mixture, which can damage the floor’s finish.
After cleaning, make sure to damp-mop any residue to prevent potential harm.
Sayan C
Sayan is passionate about effective cleaning techniques for hygienic and happy living. He loves to go down the rabbit hole to ensure that only practical advice reaches you. When he isn’t researching for Clean Homies, he reads Shakespeare or watches baseball!
