Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is one of the most popular flooring choices for homeowners, designers, and contractors. Its stunning look, impressive durability, and waterproof features make it the perfect blend of style and practicality.
While LVP is one of the easiest flooring options for care, it still requires proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure it remains beautiful for years to come. If you’ve installed LVP or are considering it for your home, here’s your complete guide to cleaning and maintaining your LVP flooring so it lasts a lifetime.
Why Maintenance Matters for LVP Flooring
One of the biggest selling points of LVP flooring is its low-maintenance appeal. Unlike hardwood floors that need refinishing or tile that requires grout cleaning, LVP’s protective wearlayer makes it resistant to scratches, stains, and water damage. However, don’t confuse “low maintenance” with “no maintenance.”
Dirt, debris, and spills can dull the surface if left unattended, and improper cleaning methods can reduce the lifespan of your floors. By following simple best practices, you’ll preserve both the beauty and performance of your LVP flooring.
Routine Cleaning Tips for LVP Flooring
Consistency is the key to long-lasting beauty. Here’s what you should do on a daily or weekly basis:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly: Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum without a beater bar to remove dirt and grit. These tiny particles can act like sandpaper, wearing down your floor’s protective layer.
- Use entry mats: Placing mats at outside doorways keeps dirt, dust, and moisture from being tracked inside. This simple step drastically reduces wear and tear.
- Spot clean as needed: Wipe up crumbs, spills, or pet messes right away to keep your floors spotless.
How to Mop LVP Floors the Right Way
While sweeping or vacuuming handles most dirt, mopping is still necessary for a deeper clean, but the technique matters.
- Use a damp mop, not a soaking wet one: Too much water may seep between planks and cause issues with your subfloor over time, even though LVP is waterproof.
- Choose a pH-neutral cleaner: Harsh chemicals, waxes, or polishes can damage the protective wear layer. Look for cleaners specifically formulated for vinyl flooring.
- Microfiber is best: A microfiber mop is gentle on the surface and traps dirt effectively without leaving streaks.
Protecting Your LVP Floors from Damage
Although LVP is known for being tough, a few preventive measures can keep it looking new for decades:
- Use felt pads under furniture: Place pads under chairs, tables, and heavy furniture to prevent dents and scratches.
- Avoid dragging heavy objects: Always lift furniture or appliances instead of pushing them across the floor.
- Manage sunlight exposure: Prolonged UV exposure may cause fading with thinner wearlayers, so use blinds, curtains, or UV-protective window film in sun-heavy rooms.
- Trim pet nails: LVP is scratch-resistant, but sharp claws can still cause damage over time.
How To Manage Spills and Stains on LVP
One of the reasons homeowners love LVP is its waterproof quality. Spills won’t cause warping or swelling the way they would with hardwood or laminate. Still, a quick cleanup is best. Here are a few tips for how to manage spills and stains effectively:
- Wipe spills immediately: Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot (not scrub) spills.
- For sticky messes: A damp mop with mild cleaner will remove residue without harming the floor.
- For tougher stains: Rubbing alcohol or a diluted vinegar solution can help, but always test in an inconspicuous area first.
Long-Term Maintenance and Care
Beyond your daily and weekly routine, here are some long-term practices to extend the life of your LVP flooring:
- Deep clean seasonally: Every few months, give your floors a deeper clean with a manufacturer-approved vinyl cleaner.
- Check for shifting planks: Although rare, heavy use can sometimes cause planks to separate. Addressing this early helps maintain a seamless look.
- Rotate rugs and furniture: Prevent uneven fading or wear by occasionally rearranging furniture and rugs.
LVP’s Big Advantage: No Refinishing Needed
Unlike natural hardwood, which requires sanding and refinishing over time, LVP maintains its finish for years with the proper care. That means less hassle, fewer costs, and more time to simply enjoy your beautiful floors.
LVP Floors Offer A Lifetime of Beauty
Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring is designed to be beautiful, durable, and easy to maintain. With just a few simple habits like regular sweeping, gentle mopping, quick spill cleanup, and basic protection, you can keep your floors looking like new for years to come.
Visit us in person or give us a call. We’d love to help you choose the perfect LVP flooring for your home, rental, or commercial space. We are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with Saturday appointments available upon request.
We look forward to helping you create a space with LVP floors that offer a lifetime of beauty.