How to clean your floors without ruining them

We get asked this a lot: “What’s the best way to clean my flooring?”

And honestly - it depends on what you’ve got.

Use the wrong product, tool, or technique, and you might end up stripping finishes, warping edges, or leaving behind grime that builds up fast.

So here’s our no-nonsense guide to keeping your floors clean, looking great, and lasting longer - without any damage.

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1. LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile)

Do:

• Use a damp (not soaking) microfibre mop

• Stick to pH-neutral floor cleaners

• Vacuum or sweep regularly to avoid grit scratching the surface

  
  

Don’t:

• Use steam mops or bleach

• Soak the floor - water can creep into edges and lift the planks

• Drag furniture without felt pads

Pro tip: Karndean and other LVT brands often have recommended cleaners - stick to them when you can.

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2. Domestic vinyl

Do:

• Clean regularly with mild detergent and warm water

• Sweep first - grit is vinyl’s enemy

• Rinse with clean water to avoid residue

  
  

Don’t:

• Use abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals

• Leave standing water - it can seep into the edges over time

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3. Carpet

Do:

• Vacuum at least twice a week (more in high traffic areas)

• Treat stains immediately with a damp cloth and carpet-specific cleaner

• Use a professional clean every 12–18 months

  
  

Don’t:

• Rub spills - it spreads the stain

• Use coloured towels or hot water on stains

• Over-wet the carpet—it can cause mould and shrinkage

Pro tip: If you’ve got bleach-cleanable carpet (like Cormar Primo), always check the care label before reaching for the bottle.

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4. Hardwood flooring

Do:

• Sweep or dry mop daily to prevent scratches

• Use a slightly damp mop with a wood-safe cleaner

• Clean up spills straight away

  
  

Don’t:

• Use steam, ammonia, or anything acidic

• Let water sit - wood doesn’t forgive

• Use furniture polish or oil-based sprays

Pro tip: Add felt pads to furniture legs and avoid shoes with grit in the tread - prevention goes a long way.

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5. Commercial vinyl

Do:

• Use a flat mop and diluted floor cleaner made for commercial spaces

• Clean regularly depending on traffic

• Use entrance mats to trap dirt

  
  

Don’t:

• Use wax-based polishes - they’ll create build-up

• Let grime sit - daily cleaning prevents long-term damage

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Different floors need different care - but one rule applies to all: clean little and often, with the right tools.

And if you’re ever in doubt? Ask us. We’re not just here to fit your flooring - we’re here to help you look after it properly.

Got a question about caring for your floor - or thinking about upgrading it altogether?

Get in touch or check out our recent projects for inspiration.