Linoleum is an affordable flooring solution for kitchens and bathrooms, and it is available in a wide range of colors and design patterns. Whether you have brand new linoleum floors or floors that have been around for over 10 years, there are some steps you can take the maximize the life of your flooring and make sure you get the most out of your investment. Here is a simple guide to help you care for your linoleum in the long run.
Sweep and Mop Regularly
Sweeping and mopping your linoleum floors will prevent debris from building up and scratching the surface of the flooring. It will also make it easier for you to keep your floors clean if you wash them often, rather than waiting for the grime to build up on top. The frequency of your cleaning will depend on the amount of foot traffic you have coming in and out of your bathroom or kitchen. Ideally, you should sweep and mop at least once a week, but you may be able to get away with less if you only have one or two people using the space.
QUICK TIPS:
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- Always allow the floors to dry thoroughly before you walk on them again
- Change out your cleaning solution each time you clean. You may need to do this two or three times in one setting if it has been a while since you last mopped.
- Avoid using a steam cleaner or hot mop water as it may loosen the adhesive on the back of the linoleum
- Clean your broom and your mop thoroughly at the end of each session so they are ready to go for your next cleaning
- Use soft-bristled brooms and scrub brushes to prevent scratching
Polish Your Floors
Linoleum floor polishing is mostly used in the commercial sector to keep show rooms and displays in tip-top shape. Nevertheless, you can use the same principles in your home kitchen or bathroom. Polishing or waxing your linoleum floors at least once a year will help maintain the sheen on the surface and protect the flooring from scratching and other damage. Just note that you may need to strip off the old polish before applying new polish to the floors because the old coating can make the new one appear yellowed and worn.
Lift Furniture When You Move It
If you are going to move a chair, a cabinet, or any other piece of furniture on top of the floor, lift it up before relocating it. For heavy pieces of furniture, you can use plastic sliders on the bottoms to prevent scratches. Note that linoleum isn’t as strong as ceramic tile, so any heavy furniture you put down in the room may leave a dent in the flooring over time. Luckily, you can always replace the flooring with new linoleum for a low price in the future.
Place Rugs In Areas With Heavy Foot Traffic
You can use rugs to cover parts of the floor that are used frequently. For instance, you may put a rug around the base of the toilet and in front of the sink in your bathroom because those are places where users are liable to sit or stand. In a kitchen, you may have a rug in front of the sink or the oven to catch falling grease and protect the flooring as a whole. Be mindful of the places where your floors may wear, and use decorative elements to prevent that from happening.
With the tips above and general home care, you should be able to enjoy your linoleum for years to come.
