How to Properly Clean LVP Floors (Luxury Vinyl Plank)
Keep your luxury vinyl plank looking like new with professional, low-maintenance cleaning techniques.
LVP is low-maintenance, not no-maintenance.
Clean often, keep water under control, and stay away from harsh chemicals. That’s how you make LVP last for years.
Tip from Thalita’s Cleaning: we use pH-neutral products on all client LVPs.Introduction
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) floors have become one of America’s favorite choices for modern homes—and for good reason. They combine the elegant look of hardwood with impressive durability and water resistance. But even though LVP is considered “low-maintenance,” it still needs proper care to keep its beauty for years.
The key is simple: clean regularly, use the right products, and avoid moisture damage. Below, you’ll find a complete guide with expert cleaning tips, product recommendations, and long-term maintenance advice.
🧰 What You’ll Need
Before you start, make sure you have the right supplies. The good news is — you don’t need expensive tools or chemicals.
Basic Supplies
- •Microfiber mop or soft broom (e.g., O-Cedar ProMist MAX or Swiffer WetJet Wood)
- •Vacuum with hard floor setting (avoid rotating brushes)
- •Warm water
- •pH-neutral floor cleaner (Bona, Rejuvenate)
- •Spray bottle or bucket
- •Soft towel or dry mop
Optional Extras
- •Vinegar – for natural cleaning (diluted)
- •Baking soda – for spot cleaning sticky areas
- •Rubber / felt floor protector pads – to prevent scratches
🧽 Step-by-Step: How to Clean LVP Floors
1. Sweep or Vacuum Daily
Dirt and grit are your floor’s worst enemies — they can scratch the protective wear layer over time. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum designed for hard floors. Avoid any rotating brushes or beater bars.
👉 Pro Tip: The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe and Dyson V8 Absolute have “hard floor modes” perfect for LVP.
2. Mix a Gentle Cleaning Solution
In a bucket or spray bottle, mix:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 1–2 teaspoons of mild floor cleaner
If you prefer a DIY option:
- Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water.
This cuts grease and disinfects naturally without harming the finish.
3. Mop Lightly — Never Soak the Floor
Dip your microfiber mop, wring it well, and clean section by section. Too much water can seep into seams and cause warping or peeling, especially on floating floors.
👉 Pro Tip: Use a spray mop (like Bona Premium Spray Mop) to control moisture and reduce streaks.
4. Dry the Floor Quickly
After mopping, run a dry towel or mop over the surface to remove excess moisture. This prevents water damage and keeps your floor streak-free and shiny.
🚫 What to Avoid
Even though LVP is tough, a few cleaning mistakes can shorten its lifespan:
Steam mops
Heat can melt adhesive and warp planks.
Abrasive scrubbers
They scratch the wear layer.
Bleach or ammonia
These break down the finish.
Wax or polish
LVP já vem com acabamento de fábrica.
Vinegar em alta concentração
Pode deixar opaco com o tempo.
🌟 Deep Cleaning (Once a Month)
Every few weeks, give your LVP a deeper clean:
- Move furniture and vacuum all edges.
- Use a microfiber mop with a specialized cleaner (Rejuvenate, Bona, or Zep Neutral Floor Cleaner).
-
Spot treat stains:
- Scuffs: Use a melamine pad (Mr. Clean Magic Eraser) lightly.
- Sticky residue: Apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a soft cloth.
👉 Tip: For high-traffic areas (kitchen, hallways), consider cleaning twice per week.
🏡 Preventive Care & Long-Term Maintenance
To keep your LVP beautiful for years, a few habits make all the difference:
- Use doormats at every entrance to trap dirt and grit.
- Felt pads under furniture legs prevent scratches.
- Avoid dragging furniture — lift and move instead.
- Control humidity indoors (ideal: 40–60%) to prevent expansion or contraction.
- Clean spills immediately — especially juice, wine, or oil.
🌿 Eco-Friendly & Budget Cleaning Tips
If you prefer natural or low-cost alternatives:
- DIY cleaner: 1 cup vinegar + 1 gallon water + 2 drops of dish soap.
- Scent boost: Add 3–4 drops of essential oil (lemon, lavender, or eucalyptus).
- Shine hack: Spray a mix of vinegar and water (1:3 ratio) on a microfiber mop once a week.
💡 Final Tip: Keep It Simple
Luxury Vinyl Plank floors are designed for everyday living. The secret to keeping them looking their best isn’t about fancy products — it’s about consistency and care.
By sweeping daily, mopping weekly, and deep cleaning monthly, you’ll extend your floor’s life and maintain that “new home” shine for years.