How to keep pet-friendly flooring clean
26 June 2023
How do you keep pet-friendly flooring clean? Our guide has all the answers you need.
Here at Floors For Paws, we make a clear distinction between pet-proof and pet-friendly flooring and what the differences are. We believe that while flooring can be pet-proof, i.e. able to withstand wear and tear, scratch resistant, waterproof and low maintenance, it isn’t necessarily pet-friendly or, in other words, kind to our pets. So, we have developed three separate ranges of vinyl flooring that is dog-proof and dog-friendly, manufactured from quality materials. But what is the best way to keep this pet-friendly flooring clean?
Vinyl flooring requires regular maintenance
Adopting a regular maintenance schedule will go a long way to keeping the vinyl floor looking its best and will prevent it from becoming dull and tired. Spills and stains – these should be dealt with immediately and not allowed to sit on the vinyl. Spillages should be wiped up and stains removed with a damp mop Do not allow dust and debris to build up – get into the habit of sweeping or vacuuming a vinyl floor regularly, and always prior to mopping. Regular mopping – if the steps above are followed, your vinyl floor will require nothing more than regular mopping with plain, warm water. Where your flooring is exposed to high volumes of traffic, for example in commercial premises, it will need a deep clean; how often you deep clean the floor will depend on the amount of traffic, but there are steps you can take to reduce the amount of dirt being brought onto the floor in the first place.How to minimise the risk of dirt on a vinyl floor
- Positioning vinyl backed mats at points of entry will reduce the amount of dirt brought in on paws and feet. Avoid rubber-backed mats though as the rubber may react with the vinyl to leave marks.
- Use of an effective entrance mat will reduce 70% of dirt ingress.
- Protect the vinyl under the feet of heavy furniture with coasters, to reduce damage from scratches and dents which will attract dust and dirt.
- Always wipe paws after walks.
How to clean vinyl floors
After vacuuming the floor, buff out any scuffs with a clean microfibre cloth. For stubborn stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water, rubbing it in gently until the stain disappears before wiping the residue off. Then, using a microfibre mop and a solution of one cup of white vinegar in one gallon of warm water, mop the vinyl. For particularly dirty floors, add a drop of dishwashing liquid to the water. Make sure your mop is damp only and not dripping wet and replace the water as soon as it becomes too dirty, as often as necessary. Rinse the floor by mopping with plain water and always dry the floor afterwards to prevent moisture entering any joins in the vinyl.Things to avoid when cleaning vinyl flooring
- Floor polish – this will damage vinyl.
- Abrasive scourers – they will damage the surface of the floor, and remove the shiny appearance.
- Steam cleaners – damage can be caused by the steam and heat which in turn could invalidate any warranties.
