How to clean textured vinyl plank floors?

My honey maple floors have a rough surface. If is spot clean, it leaves a "patch" on the floor that shows up from a distance. Cleaners leave streaks. How do I clean them easily, preferable a one-step process.


  13 answers
  • GrandmasHouseDIY GrandmasHouseDIY on Apr 07, 2020

    I use a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water on my 100 year old hardwoods - it does a great job but definitely get a good mop. I invested in a large one that kinda looks like the mops they use on gym floors, it made a huge difference!

  • Warm water and dish soap is one of the best ways. although, I would check with the manufacturer of your flooring for their recommendation.

  • I love this Bruce floor cleaner. Used it for years now. I spray it in and use a Terry mop to wipe it with.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Apr 07, 2020

    Invest in a very good microfiber mop and mop with water only is the best solution.


    If not, use this solution wringing your mop as much as possible:

    ½ cup apple cider vinegar

    1 tsp blue Dawn

    2 gallons warm tap water

  • William William on Apr 07, 2020

    One cup of lemon scented ammonia to one gallon hot water.

  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Apr 07, 2020

    Hi! If you know the brand, check their website for recommendations. I use a Swiffer mop on mine. Since you have a textured finish, check for buildup in that part. You may need to clean the floor to remove the buildup before returning to routine mopping. Good luck and stay safe!

    • Linda Watson Mix Linda Watson Mix on Apr 09, 2020

      I did and they recommended a Shaw product. I was hoping to find a natural one i could make my self, also so I didn't have to depend on an outside product.

  • Dee Dee on Apr 07, 2020

    I use white vinegar, water and a few drops of dawn. I spray it on a microfiber cloth and my floors look great. I would imagine you could use it on vinyl also. It is also great for tile floors.

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Apr 08, 2020

    Hi Linda,

    Use a Wet wipe mop or a polish mop!

  • Deb K Deb K on Apr 08, 2020

    Hi Linda, an ongoing problem vinylfloors right? My brother in-law used to hate it that his socks left marks on the floor after removing his shoes! This little trick helped him out. I think you need a steam cleaner and a microfiber cloth on a swiffer type stick, steam an area then run the dry microfiber cloth over it to remove dirt and grime, if you dry it, it grabs the dirt, but also does not allow streaks to form.


    And if you choose to use a cleanser, one of the best cleansers for vinyl flooring is apple cider vinegar. The acidity in the vinegar helps remove dirt and grime without leaving a buildup of soap or wax. Simply mix one cup of cider vinegar with a gallon of hot water and use a damp mop to clean, rinsing the mop frequently with hot water.

    Best of luck!


  • Have you ever tried Bona products for your floor? They're the best I've used!

  • Janice Janice on Apr 08, 2020

    The key is to use two mops. One to clean with and one to "dry" with. Or use a plush terry towel to dry the areas as you clean.

    • Linda Watson Mix Linda Watson Mix on Apr 09, 2020

      I was hoping to avoid the 2-step process, but it is looking like that will be the best option. Thanks!


  • Our floor installer recommended warm water with white vinegar. Works really well for us!