Buzz
Photo by Mytour / David HattanVinyl flooring is highly valued for its versatility and durability, but to preserve its appearance and longevity, special cleaners are essential. Regular upkeep is not just for visual appeal—it’s crucial for maintaining the integrity of the floor. While a basic soap-and-water solution may do the job, using cleaners designed specifically for vinyl helps eliminate dirt and grime without compromising the floor's protective coating.
To identify the top vinyl cleaners, we extensively researched highly rated products from trusted brands, factoring in ingredients, scent, product type, size, and usage instructions. We also consulted with Rhonda Wilson, the quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning, to get expert insights on selecting cleaners that meet diverse needs and preferences.
Best in Overall Performance
Rejuvenate All Floors Cleaner is a versatile and effective cleaning solution designed to restore the shine of various flooring types.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera BurresonThis cleaner excels at removing dirt and grime while leaving floors with a flawless, streak-free finish.
Some floors may develop a slightly sticky residue after use.
When caring for vinyl floors, you typically need to buy both a cleaner and a separate polish for a complete clean and high-gloss shine. The Rejuvenate High Performance All-Floor Cleaner simplifies this by combining both functions into one convenient formula that works on vinyl, laminate, tile, linoleum, and hardwood floors. While available in a 32-ounce spray bottle, a larger 128-ounce refillable bottle is also offered.
You can either apply the cleaner directly to the floor or use it with the Rejuvenate Click n Clean spray mop, which features an adjustable spray mop with a swivel head, providing flexibility for various cleaning needs. The pH-balanced formula effectively tackles dirt, grime, and wax buildup without damaging any protective sealants or finishes. The result is a glossy, streak-free surface without the hassle of polishing separately.
Be aware that this cleaner may leave a sticky residue on some floors. We recommend testing it on a small area before applying it to the entire surface. If you notice any stickiness, simply remove it with a clean, damp microfiber cloth.
Type: Spray | Size: 32 ounces | Scent: Fresh
Best Natural
Aunt Fannie's Vinegar Floor Cleaner
PHOTO: AmazonThis all-natural formula is free of harsh chemicals yet powerful enough to get the job done effectively.
The scent of vinegar is noticeable.
Aunt Fannie’s Ultra-Concentrated Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner combines a natural formula with powerful cleaning abilities that rival chemical-based cleaners. Its main ingredient, distilled white vinegar, is a household staple that naturally eliminates odors and cuts through grease, grime, and dirt. This cleaner is safe to use on vinyl, hardwood, tile, and linoleum floors, and is non-toxic to pets, humans, and the environment.
The cleaner features plant-based surfactants to break down tough grime, along with a mix of lavender, eucalyptus, cedar, and rosemary essential oils, giving it a refreshing lemon fragrance (though the vinegar scent remains). This 32-ounce liquid concentrate yields 16 gallons of cleaning solution when diluted as directed, and can be used with a mop and bucket, floor cleaning machines, or spray bottles.
Product Type: Liquid concentrate | Volume: 32 ounces
Best for Restoration
Simple Green Multi-Surface Floor Care
PHOTO: AmazonThis formula restores a brilliant shine to vinyl floors without leaving any streaks or residues behind.
It may not be the best option for floors in need of a deep clean.
If your vinyl floors have lost their luster, the Simple Green Multi-Surface Floor Care Cleaner can quickly restore their shine. The streak-free and fast-drying formula brings back a striking, reflective surface to even the dullest floors, and it’s free from ammonia, chlorine, phthalates, phosphates, and glycol-ethers. According to the brand, it’s safe for use around both children and pets.
This cleaner is perfect for vinyl, hardwood, tile, laminate, and stone surfaces such as granite and marble. Its pH-neutral composition ensures that it’s powerful enough to clean vinyl without damaging or dulling its protective coating. While it excels in daily use and spot treatments, it might not be strong enough for floors that require a thorough deep clean. The cleaner is available in a lemon verbena scent and comes in a generous 1-gallon bottle.
Type: Liquid | Size: 1 gallon | Scent: Lemon verbena
Best for Spot Treatment
COREtec Encore Luxury Vinyl Floor Cleaner is the perfect solution for keeping your vinyl floors spotless and well-maintained.
PHOTO: Available on AmazonThe spray bottle design ensures precise cleaning, ideal for tackling tough stains, dirt, grime, and scuff marks.
The scent is more noticeable compared to other similar products.
The Coretec Encore Luxury Vinyl Floor Cleaner, packaged in a 32-ounce spray bottle, is perfect for smaller areas that need focused attention. It effectively breaks down tough stains, grease, dirt, dust, and scuff marks from hard floors. Despite its powerful cleaning action, it remains safe for LVT and LVP flooring and doesn't require rinsing after use.
This product is ready to use at full strength, requiring no dilution. Simply spray it onto the floor and wipe away with a microfiber cloth, towel, or mop. After use, it leaves floors with a clean, polished look, free of any sticky or dull residue. The fresh scent is a pleasant addition, though it is stronger compared to others on our list.
Type: Spray | Size: 32 ounces | Scent: Clean
Best for Daily Use
Better Life Floor Cleaner
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera BurresonNo rinsing is required; simply apply directly to the floor.
It may leave streaks on the floor after drying.
Better Life Floor Cleaner is a great option for maintaining vinyl floors, offering a squirt-and-mop-style formula in a 32-ounce bottle. There's no need to rinse afterward. The plant-based cleaner, made from ingredients like corn and coconut, is naturally scented with peppermint, bergamot, and grapefruit, providing a fresh, citrusy aroma.
Despite its natural ingredients, this cleaner is effective at eliminating dirt, grime, and stubborn stains, leaving your floor with a shiny, lustrous finish. It’s free from harsh chemicals such as bleach, alcohol, and parabens, making it safe for use around children and pets.
Type: Liquid | Size: 32 ounces | Scent: Citrus mint
Final Conclusion
Our top choice in this category is the Rejuvenate High Performance All-Floors and Hardwood Floor Cleaner, thanks to its balanced pH formula, shine-enhancing technology, and user-friendly design. For those seeking a similarly effective vinyl floor cleaner at a lower price, the Everspring Multi-Purpose Floor Cleaner Concentrate offers comparable cleaning results at a much more affordable rate.
A Guide to Purchasing Vinyl Floor Cleaners Like a Professional
Categories
Vinyl floor cleaners come in two main forms: ready-to-use liquid sprays and concentrated powder or liquid solutions. As the name implies, ready-to-use sprays can be directly applied to the floor using a microfiber cloth or mop. These pre-diluted cleaners are ideal for smaller or less demanding cleaning tasks. However, since they are formulated for immediate use, there’s no flexibility in adjusting the solution to fit more intense cleaning needs, which can be limiting for tougher jobs.
Powder and liquid concentrates are powerful cleaning solutions that need to be mixed with water. The potency of the cleaner can be adjusted based on the amount of product used. As Wilson mentions, “If you’re dealing with heavy dirt and grime you can make a stronger solution with concentrated formulas, or if you just need a light clean, you can dilute it.”
Concentrated cleaners tend to be more economical than ready-to-use sprays, but they do require the extra step of dilution. Depending on your needs—how much space you're cleaning and your time limitations—this extra step might be an inconvenience when compared to the convenience of using a spray cleaner.
Essential Ingredients
Vinyl floor cleaners consist of several important ingredients, each serving a specific role. As Wilson explains, “You’ve got things like surfactants that loosen up all the dirt and grime, solvents that help with really tough stains, and chelating agents that keep your floors looking great even if you’ve got hard water.” Many cleaners also include pH adjusters to ensure the product won’t harm your floors, as well as a range of fragrances (usually customizable) to keep your space smelling fresh.
While these ingredients are effective at breaking down greasy residues and dirt on hard floors, they are often made with strong chemicals that can irritate the skin and respiratory system. These harsh substances can also be dangerous for sensitive groups such as children and pets, and may leave a lingering strong scent. As Wilson points out, “If you’re environmentally conscious, then natural or eco-friendly cleaners are the way to go because they don’t contain harsh chemicals, making them safe for children and pets.”
Purpose of Use
Your cleaning method for vinyl floors will vary depending on your objectives and preferences. For instance, if you aim to keep your floors clean with minimal effort, Wilson suggests using spray cleaners, which are great for quick touch-ups or spot cleaning. However, for a more thorough cleaning, a high-performance, rejuvenating, or concentrated cleaner may be a better choice to remove dirt, grime, and stains.
It’s also important to think about the size of the area you're cleaning. If you plan to clean your entire floor deeply, you might prefer a gallon-sized cleaner over a small spray bottle. Wilson generally advises using liquid cleaners, especially for larger vinyl floor areas like those in living rooms and kitchens.
Common Inquiries
What Should You Avoid When Cleaning Vinyl Floors?
Although vinyl floors are tough and long-lasting, they still require careful handling during cleaning. Wilson warns against using bleach or ammonia, stating, “They might seem like a quick fix, but they can actually strip away that protective layer on your vinyl, leaving it vulnerable to damage and discoloration.”
Wax- and oil-based cleaners should also be avoided, as they can leave behind sticky layers that attract dirt and dust. When selecting cleaning tools, skip the steel wool and stiff-bristled brushes, as both can scratch and damage the surface of your floor.
Be mindful of the amount of water you use during cleaning, whether with a steam mop or a traditional mop. Wilson advises, “Too much moisture can cause it to lift or curl at the edges.” She also adds, “Avoid flooding your floors with water or leaving them in a puddle for too long. Steam mops’ heat and moisture can cause warping or swelling, as well.”
Are Hardwood Floor Cleaners Safe for Vinyl Floors?
While most vinyl floor cleaners are safe for hardwood floors, not all hardwood floor cleaners are appropriate for vinyl. These cleaners often contain ingredients designed to enhance the look and feel of hardwood, which can damage vinyl over time. As Wilson points out, “Hardwood cleaners often contain oils or waxes that can leave a sticky residue on vinyl floors. They’re a bit harsh, so you might notice damage or discoloration.”
What Sets Vinyl Floor Cleaner Apart from Vinyl Floor Polish?
Although you might think that vinyl floor cleaner and vinyl floor polish are interchangeable, they actually serve different roles. Vinyl floor cleaners are intended to break down and remove dirt and grime from your floors. While some may have restorative properties, their main purpose is sanitation. On the other hand, vinyl floor polish provides a protective layer that gives your floors a glossy finish while helping to prevent scratches and scuffs.
If you're looking to clean your floors and improve their appearance, you can combine a vinyl floor cleaner with a polish. Simply apply the cleaner, let it dry, and then add a light coat of polish on top. Alternatively, you can use our top-rated pick, the Rejuvenate High Performance All-Floors and Hardwood Floor Cleaner, which conveniently cleans and polishes in one easy step.
What Is the Best Way to Clean Vinyl Flooring?
Cleaning vinyl floors is a straightforward task that requires just a few steps. Start by using a broom or a vacuum for hardwood floors to remove any loose dirt or debris. After sweeping or vacuuming, you can either use a ready-to-use liquid cleaner or spray, or mix a cleaning solution from a concentrate to continue the process.
When using your selected cleaner, take a soft mop or sponge mop, dip it into the cleaning solution, and wring out any excess liquid. “Mop the floor in sections, and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub any tough spots,” Wilson recommends. After finishing the cleaning process, rinse away any remaining residue with clean water (if the cleaner requires rinsing), and either dry the floor with a towel or leave it to air-dry.
How to Restore Faded Vinyl
For reviving faded vinyl, Wilson recommends using a floor polish or shine product from trusted brands like Rejuvenate, Bona, or Weiman. Most of these products suggest applying the polish to the floor, wiping it evenly with a microfiber cloth or mop pad, and letting it dry for about 30 minutes to an hour. Be sure to follow the specific instructions on the product label, as they may vary.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Alicia Geigel, a contributing writer for Mytour. To identify the best vinyl floor cleaners, she researched the most popular products available, considering factors such as ingredient formulas, scent, type and size, cost, and customer feedback. For expert advice, Geigel consulted Rhonda Wilson, the quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning, a professional cleaning service.
