How to clean Linoleum?

With linoleum, a so-called frosting / yellow film can form on the surface. It is a natural process. This effect disappears when the affected area is exposed to daylight within a few hours. A yellow film can, in turn, be created on surfaces that are covered by furniture or carpets. Again, the effect disappears when the affected areas are exposed to daylight.

Spot and stain removal

Treat stains immediately. Spot clean by hand with a white/red nylon pad and neutral detergent (solvents should not be used). Work from the outside of the mark towards its centre. Rinse and wipe afterwards with clean water.

Combined machine (for large areas)
Use diluted neutral detergent. Speed low 150-250 rpm or higher. Red/brown pads are usually the most suitable.

Machine scrubbing + Wet-vacuuming
Apply a cleaning solution (fairly strong, pH 10-11, after dilution) and allow to act for 5-10 min.
Clean the floor using a heavy-duty single disc scrubbing machine (red pad). Vacuum up the dirty water immediately. Rinse with clean water and allow the floor to dry.

General advice:

  • No wax or polish is needed
  • Clean the floorcovering regularly, as this is more cost-effective and hygienic than occasional heavy-duty cleaning.
  • Remove immediately sand from the surface as it will have an abrasive effect on the surface of the flooring
  • Wipe up any grease and spilt oil immediately, as they may damage the surface.
  • Resilient floors are damaged by solvents.
  • Prolonged contact with Black rubber wheels and rubber feet can discolour the floorcovering.
  • Furniture should be fitted with soft pads. The feet of the chairs must be not abrasive or have sharp edges and has to be covered with soft or polyurethane pads and they must be regularly cleaned, checked and replaced.
  • The slipperiness of the floor covering is affected by the quantity of dirt and by the frequency and the materials used for cleaning. Safety and Hygiene issues can arise if the cleaning activity is reduced.
  • Remember that light colours need more frequent cleaning.