How Safe Is It To Steam Mop My Vinyl Plank Flooring?
There are many reasons why homeowners love vinyl plank flooring. It’s an affordable yet beautiful option for hardwood. Likewise, it’s more durable than other kinds of laminate floors. On top of that, it’s easy to install, maintain, and replace.
Still, it will not be able to maintain its good looks if you don’t take care of it properly. It’s vital to clean your flooring regularly as loose dirt can damage its coating. And if you own a steam mop, you’re probably wondering if you can use it to clean your vinyl plank floors.
The simple answer is yes. A steam mop can also be used sparingly on vinyl plank flooring to ensure its cleanliness and freshness. Also, it’s vital to apply precautionary measures when steam mopping to avoid damaging your floors from overheating.
Steam Mopping Vs. Traditional Mopping
Unlike traditional laminate, vinyl plank flooring can withstand moisture. It can also tolerate water better in comparison to hardwood. Nonetheless, excessive moisture tends to seep in the cracks, which may loosen the glue that attaches the material to the floor.
Steam mopping is a superb method of cleaning floors that minimizes the application of too much water. The reason for this is because you control the amount of moisture. Furthermore, its drying time is only around 30 seconds. This means that you will be able to clean your vinyl plank floor and not immerse it in detergents and water.
Before steam cleaning your floors, make sure to vacuum or mop first to remove larger dirt and debris. Also, do not forget to check your unit’s microfiber pad before, during, and after use. If the cloth becomes noticeably dirty while you’re cleaning, replace it with a clean one.
Use Precautionary Measures
A steam mop can potentially damage your attractive vinyl plank floorings. As mentioned, water and steam coming out of your device can seep in between planks. This will loosen the glue holding them in place.
Moreover, your mop produces heat that may also cause warping or bending of the vinyl itself or dull its finish. What’s more, most manufacturers will void the warranty of your vinyl planks if they were damaged due to extreme heat, including that from your steam mop.
So make sure to be careful when steam mopping. Always set your unit to its lowest heat level. Likewise, you can prevent excessive heat from hitting any area for too long by moving your steam mop continuously. Applying rapid strokes can also help prevent damages.
How To Steam Mop Your Vinyl Plank Flooring
Not every steam mop poses a threat to your vinyl plank floor. Some models are designed to clean vinyl floor types. On the other hand, you can use some ensuring you follow some precautions. You can check out this floor steam cleaners top-list to find out more.
Meanwhile, here are some things to keep in mind when steam mopping your vinyl plank flooring:
- Utilize a microfiber pad.You can prevent the steam from directly touching your sensitive floors when you use microfiber cloths during the steaming process. You’ll be able to minimize the harsh effects of steam cleaning and protect your gorgeous flooring.
- Set your unit to half-power or light steam. Use the half-power or light steam setting of your unit if it has that option. Doing so will protect your vinyl planks from excessive exposure to intense heat, which may result in warping of your tiles or degrading of its adhesive. Additionally, turn off the scrubber setting as this may damage the coating of your flooring.
Do not forget to sweep or vacuum any dirt before you start with your cleaning task. Likewise, wipe your floors with any water residue using a microfiber cloth once you’re done mopping.
Conclusion
Steam mopping is great at loosening unwanted stains and dirt on your vinyl plank flooring. It’s safe, and you don’t have to worry about damages as long as your floors have no open seams or tears. Another notable thing about steam mops is that you don’t need to use harsh chemicals to clean and sanitize your floors, making them eco-friendly.