How to clean sheet vinyl floors

dog owners guide to cleaning sheet vinyl

A guide to cleaning vinyl sheet flooring and what to avoid using on them to maintain their appearance.

Vinyl flooring today can be found in a variety of domestic and commercial settings, from private households to clinical settings and even hospitality. Is the care and maintenance needed the same for every setting? Here we look in particular at pet-friendly vinyl sheet flooring when used in a commercial environment.

What is vinyl sheet flooring?

As the name implies, vinyl sheet flooring is supplied on the roll, just like traditional carpet and is supplied in your preferred length.

Vinyl sheet flooring for commercial premises

There are many features of sheet vinyl flooring that makes it the ideal flooring solution for commercial premises. In particular, sheet flooring can cover an area with no seams, or very few, depending on the width of the roll. This in turn means the flooring cannot be penetrated by water or moisture, rendering it completely water resistant.

Maintaining vinyl sheet flooring

As with LVT flooring, vinyl sheet flooring is extremely low maintenance and requires nothing more than regular vacuuming or sweeping. It goes without saying that spillages should be dealt with as soon as they occur and in general, flooring in commercial settings needs the same maintenance as that in a family home.

Deep cleaning vinyl sheet flooring

The difference between LVT and sheet flooring is more marked when it is time to deep cleaning. Settings such as veterinary practices, dog daycare centres, and canine cafes can experience high volumes of canine traffic and as such are the perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria and will require much more frequent, thorough cleaning. As seamless flooring is easy to mop and is impenetrable to liquid and moisture when professionally installed, it is durable enough to withstand regular deep cleaning where necessary.  Simply mop with a recommended cleaning solution or, if you and your clients prefer a more natural option, tackle stubborn marks and stains with a paste of baking soda and water before mopping with a solution of one cup of white vinegar in one gallon of warm water.

Can you use a steam mop on vinyl sheet flooring?

The quick answer to this is no! Many people think that the seamless nature of vinyl sheet flooring  makes it suitable for steam cleaning. However it is not the risk of moisture and steam penetrating the joins that is a risk to the flooring. The high temperatures that steam cleaners and mops get to, can cause adhesive to melt and can compromise the surface of the flooring, allowing the steam to penetrate the vinyl and damage the interior layers.

Other things to avoid on sheet vinyl floors

Do not use abrasive scourers that will damage the surface of the vinyl.

Extremely hot water should not be used – warm water only is suitable for mopping vinyl floors.

Wax products – these leave a residue on the surface of the flooring which can be difficult to remove without causing damage.

Avoid leaving newly cleaned floors wet – simply dry with a clean microfibre mop.

Vinyl sheet flooring from Floors for Paws

We supply sheet vinyl flooring as part of the Pawsafe Commercial range. Ideal for premises that experience a lot of four-legged visitors, the flooring has been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) as it offers excellent slip resistance and maximum grip for dogs that may be unsteady when standing or walking, due to age or conditions such as canine arthritis. The range features a thicker than average wear layer for extra comfort too. For our two-legged customers, the Pawsafe Commercial range is offered in a selection of wood- and stone-effect designs to add a domestic aesthetic to business premises.

To see for yourself, why not order up to three free samples? Or give our sales team a call on 01522 300218 to find out more.

CAM working with Floors for Paws

Read how we have been working with CAM to broaden our knowledge, in order to provide the best flooring for dogs with arthritis.

At Floors for Paws, we are passionate about helping dogs with arthritis to be as comfortable and as mobile as possible, for as long as possible. To this end and in order to learn as much as we can, we have been working closely with leading industry manufacturers as well as with Hannah Capon from Canine Arthritis Management (CAM).

Dr Hannah Capon and Canine Arthritis Management

Hannah, a veterinarian with 20 years of experience, decided to focus on improving the quality of life for arthritic dogs, after realising that too many otherwise healthy dogs were being euthanised because of arthritis pain (in fact canine arthritis is a leading cause of early euthanasia in dogs). Since 2015, it has been CAM’s mission to educate professionals and pet owners to identify arthritis early, and employ multimodal methods of management.

CAM education and resources can be accessed online here or by following them across their social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram) which have a combined following of tens of thousands.

Hannah’s work and commitment have been recognised with her receipt of two separate awards, the CEVA Vet of the Year Award in 2019, and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Impact Award in 2020.

Floors for Paws and CAM

Supporting CAM’s ethos to promote better care for arthritic pets, we have worked closely with Hannah and industry manufacturers. The result is a unique flooring that is kind to animals and attractive, practical and functional for owners. Low maintenance for owners and with a reduced risk of slipping for pets, plus an extra-soft layer of protection has led to CAM’s endorsement of both our Pawsafe Commercial range and our Pawsafe Domestic range.

Pawsafe Commercial Flooring

Supplied on the roll, our Pawsafe Commercial range offers a low slip risk with a softer feel. Available in 2 metre widths with a thicker than average 0.7 wear layer that is durable enough to cope with high traffic volumes, this cushion vinyl is recommended for veterinary surgeries, kennels, doggy daycare and pet cafes. Available in a choice of wood- or stone-effect designs, the full range can be viewed here where you can order up to three free samples. When professionally installed, the flooring comes with a 10-year commercial guarantee.

Pawsafe Domestic Flooring

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is luxury vinyl plank flooring that is offered in a choice of two sizes, 1000mm X 125mm or 500mm X 100mm which is perfect for parquet style, herringbone patterns. Unlike a traditional, rigid-backed LVT, the Pawsafe Domestic range is felt-backed for added cushioning and softness. Ideal for homes and commercial areas such as reception areas/waiting rooms/consultation rooms, the plank flooring has a textured surface to aid traction and is offered in a choice of colours and designs, so why not order your free samples today? When professionally installed, the flooring comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

To discuss any aspect of our dog friendly flooring options, call our friendly and knowledgeable team today on 01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

The many benefits of Safe Flooring for Dogs

Our canine companions bring joy, love, and boundless energy into our lives. However, they can also face their fair share of challenges, one of which is the impact of hard and unforgiving flooring on their well-being. Choosing safe flooring for your dog can provide numerous benefits that not only enhance their comfort but also safeguard their health.

1. Joint Health Matters: Just like humans, dogs can experience joint problems, especially as they age. Hard surfaces, like concrete or tile, can exacerbate joint pain and contribute to conditions like arthritis. Safe flooring, which is softer and more cushioned, helps reduce the strain on joints, keeping your pup more comfortable and mobile.

2. Reduced Slippage: Dogs are not immune to slips and falls, and these accidents can lead to injuries, especially in older or less agile dogs. Safe flooring with good traction minimizes the risk of your furry friend losing their footing, providing a secure environment for play and movement.

3. Comfortable Rest: Dogs spend a significant portion of their lives lying down. Whether it’s naptime or a long night’s sleep, safe flooring provides a comfortable surface that prevents pressure sores and discomfort. Elevated dog beds or soft mats can further enhance their relaxation.

4. Stress Reduction: Dogs are sensitive creatures, and stressful environments can affect their overall well-being. Safe flooring can contribute to a calmer atmosphere. A comfortable, non-slip surface can reduce anxiety and help your dog feel more secure in their surroundings.

5. Maintained Activity: Exercise is essential for a dog’s health, both physically and mentally. Safe flooring encourages activity. When dogs have secure footing and reduced joint discomfort, they’re more likely to engage in play and exercise, which can maintain muscle strength and overall fitness.

6. Hygiene and Cleanliness: Safe flooring is easier to clean and maintain. Accidents happen, but with the right flooring, cleaning up is a breeze. This is especially important for puppies or senior dogs who may have trouble controlling their bodily functions.

7. Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in safe flooring can be cost-effective in the long run. Preventing joint issues or injuries can save you money on veterinary bills and treatments. It’s a wise investment in your dog’s health and happiness.

8. Versatile Design Options: Safe flooring doesn’t mean sacrificing aesthetics. There’s a wide range of flooring options that combine safety with style, allowing you to choose a design that complements your home while keeping your dog’s needs in mind.

In conclusion, safe flooring for dogs isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. It promotes joint health, reduces stress, enhances comfort, and ensures your dog can enjoy a full and active life. By choosing flooring that prioritizes your dog’s well-being, you’re making a loving investment in their future happiness and health.

At Floors for Paws, we’ve expertly combined both quality and style within our selection of flooring that is not only pet-friendly but also remarkably easy to maintain. While traditional flooring materials like real wood, laminate, and ceramic may present a slipping hazard and a less forgiving landing surface, our vinyl solutions are an ideal choice for dogs of all ages. These specialized vinyl options feature a textured, anti-slip surface and an additional layer of soft protection. They come highly recommended by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), especially for older dogs and those suffering from arthritis.

Our flooring is available in both tile and plank formats, offering a wide array of colours and designs to suit any room in your home. Whether you’re revamping your living room or transforming your kitchen, our Pawsafe Domestic Range and Luxury Vinyl Range are perfect options.

For businesses that frequently welcome furry visitors, such as veterinary clinics, dog daycare centres, and canine cafes, our Pawsafe Commercial Range is available in roll format. It represents the pinnacle of pet-friendly flooring, ensuring both durability and aesthetics.
Call us today on 01522 300218 or send an email to info@floorsforpaws.com