Common Tools You Should Never Use To Clean Vinyl Plank Floors

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Many homeowners choose vinyl plank flooring over hardwood or laminate because it can be more durable. Households with pets or children won't constantly live in fear of scratches caused by sharp claws, remote control cars, or skateboards that were brought in the house when parents weren't looking. Vinyl plank flooring is also water-resistant, making it easier to clean than hardwood or laminate, and a better flooring choice for bathrooms and kitchens. 

Although vinyl plank flooring is durable, it is not indestructible. While these floors are not as prone to scratches as real wood, it is possible to scrape vinyl planks — and pets and kids are not always to blame. Many people end up causing damage when cleaning their vinyl plank floors. Scrubbing them with abrasive products like steel wool, stiff bristles, and gritty cleaning pastes, or vacuuming with a hard bristle attachment or beater bar can do more harm than good. Vinyl plank flooring is topped with a clear "wear layer" which protects it from scratches, stains, and water damage. Scouring the floors with these hard materials can remove the protective outer layer and cause visible scratches on the layers below.

To keep your vinyl floors in tip-top shape, clean them regularly with a damp (not wet) mop, vacuum (on hard floor setting), or soft-bristled broom. Rub stubborn spots with a microfiber cloth and stick to cleaners made specifically for vinyl such as Rejuvenate. Avoid hardwood floor cleaners as they contain oils which can cause a cloudy buildup.

There are other things you can do to prevent scratches on your vinyl plank floors, besides altering your cleaning routine. Protect your floors when moving furniture with furniture pads. This set of FURNIMATE felt furniture pads comes with 300 pieces in various shapes and sizes for all the furniture in your home. At only $9.99, it's a good investment for increasing the longevity of your flooring. Furniture glides are also recommended when moving particularly heavy pieces. Use door mats or area rugs in high-traffic areas or a Kuyal clear chair mat under a constantly rolling office chair. 

If you are installing vinyl plank flooring and are worried about scratches, you can opt for features like enhanced urethane coating and a thicker wear layer.  Wear layers are typically offered in either 12 mil (.3 millimeters) or 20 mil (.5 millimeters) thickness for residential homes, and going with the 20 mil option will provide better protection.