How to Clean Vinyl Plank Floors (LVP)

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become one of the most popular flooring choices for its durability, water resistance, and realistic wood appearance. Unlike hardwood and laminate, LVP is 100% waterproof — making it much more forgiving to clean. However, it still has specific care requirements to maintain its appearance and protect its wear layer. Here's the complete guide.

Why LVP Is Easier to Clean Than Hardwood or Laminate

100% waterproof: No risk of water damage from mopping — you can use more moisture than with wood floors
Durable wear layer: Resists scratches, stains, and scuffs better than most other flooring types
No special finish to protect: No waxing, polishing, or refinishing required
Easy stain resistance: Most spills wipe up easily without staining

What You'll Need

BPAWA Microfiber Flat Floor Mop with 4 Washable Pads
Better Life Floor Cleaner – Citrus Mint, 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) – pH-neutral, safe for LVP
HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (Pack of 12)
Empty Spray Bottles (16oz, 2-Pack)
A vacuum cleaner with hard floor setting

What to Avoid on LVP Floors

Despite LVP's durability, some products and methods can damage it:

Steam mops: Heat can warp and delaminate LVP — never use steam on vinyl plank
Wax or polish: LVP has a factory wear layer that doesn't need waxing — wax creates buildup and makes floors slippery
Abrasive scrubbers: Scratch the wear layer permanently
Bleach or ammonia-based cleaners: Can discolor and damage the wear layer
Acetone or solvent-based cleaners: Dissolve the vinyl surface
Beater bar vacuum: Can scratch the surface — use hard floor setting only

Daily Maintenance

Dry Sweeping or Dust Mopping

Sweep or dry dust mop daily to remove grit, dust, and pet hair. Even though LVP is scratch-resistant, abrasive particles ground in by foot traffic will eventually dull the wear layer. A dry microfiber flat mop is ideal for daily maintenance.

Vacuuming

Vacuum weekly on the hard floor setting with the beater bar off. The floor brush attachment is gentler on the wear layer than the beater bar.

Weekly Cleaning

Step 1: Sweep or Vacuum First

Always remove loose debris before wet mopping.

Step 2: Prepare Cleaning Solution

Dilute Better Life Floor Cleaner in a spray bottle or bucket according to instructions. For LVP, you can use a slightly more generous amount than with hardwood or laminate — but still avoid soaking the floor.

Step 3: Mop in Sections

Spray the cleaning solution onto a section of floor and mop with your microfiber flat mop in the direction of the planks. LVP can handle a damp (not soaking wet) mop without damage. Work backward toward the door.

Step 4: No Rinsing Required

With a pH-neutral cleaner like Better Life, no rinsing is needed. The floor will dry quickly and leave no residue.

Spot Cleaning LVP

Spills: Wipe up immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth. LVP won't be damaged by spills, but prompt cleanup prevents tracking.
Scuff marks: Rub with a clean dry tennis ball or a dry microfiber cloth.
Sticky residue: Apply a small amount of floor cleaner to a cloth and wipe. For stubborn residue, use isopropyl alcohol on a cloth — test in a hidden area first.
Grease: A few drops of dish soap on a damp cloth, wipe, then clean with floor cleaner.
Permanent marker or ink: Isopropyl alcohol on a cotton ball, dab carefully.

Deep Cleaning LVP

Every 1–3 months, a more thorough cleaning removes accumulated grime from the texture of the wear layer:

Vacuum thoroughly.
Use a slightly more concentrated cleaning solution.
Mop with a damp (not just barely damp) microfiber mop, working in sections.
For textured LVP with embossed grain patterns, use a soft brush to work cleaner into the texture.
Mop again with clean water to rinse if needed.
Allow to dry completely.

Protecting LVP Floors

Place felt pads under all furniture legs to prevent scratching the wear layer.
Use doormats at all entrances to trap grit.
Avoid rubber-backed rugs — rubber can discolor LVP over time. Use rugs with felt or vinyl backing instead.
Keep indoor humidity between 35–65% — extreme temperature and humidity changes can cause LVP to expand and contract.
Protect from prolonged direct sunlight — UV exposure can fade LVP colors over time.

Final Thoughts

LVP is one of the easiest floor types to maintain — it's waterproof, durable, and forgiving. Daily dry mopping, weekly damp mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner, and prompt spill cleanup are all you need. Avoid steam, wax, and abrasive cleaners, and your LVP floors will look great for decades.

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