Karndean floors are a popular and stylish flooring option for homes and businesses due to their durability and versatility. However, over time, these floors can become dirty and dull, ruining their aesthetic appeal. That’s why it’s crucial to keep them clean and well-maintained to keep them looking their best. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean your Karndean floors.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Before you start cleaning your Karndean floors, make sure you have the following tools and supplies on hand:
- Microfiber mop or soft-bristled broom
- Vacuum cleaner with a hard floor setting
- Warm water
- Karndean Clean, Karndean Recover & Karndean Refresh which are specifically designed for luxury vinyl tiles (LVT)
- Soft cloths or towels
- Bucket
Step 1: Dust and Sweep Regularly
To prevent dirt and dust build-up, it’s important to sweep or vacuum your Karndean floor regularly. This will not only help keep the surface looking clean, but also prevent scratches and scuffs that can occur from heavy dirt particles. If possible, use a soft-bristled brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to avoid scratching the surface.
So, the first step in cleaning your Karndean floors is to remove any dirt, dust, and debris that has accumulated on the surface. The best way to do this is by vacuuming the floors using the hard floor setting. Make sure to pay special attention to the corners and crevices, as these areas tend to accumulate dirt and dust the most.
Step 2: Spot Clean Stains and Spills
If you happen to spill something on your Karndean floor, it’s important to clean it up as soon as possible to prevent staining. For most spills, you can simply wipe them up with a clean cloth or paper towel. For tougher stains, you can use a mild detergent mixed with water and a non-abrasive sponge to gently scrub the area.
Step 3: Use the Right Cleaning Products
When it comes to cleaning your Karndean floor, it’s important to use the right products. Avoid using vinegar, wax, or harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach as they can damage the surface. Instead, use the cleaner specifically designed for Karndean flooring, aptly named Karndean Clean or a mild soap-and-water solution.
Step 4: Mop the Floor
After removing dirt or spills from the surface, it’s time to clean the floors using Karndean Clean, specifically designed for LVT and is available to purchase from RH Flooring Solutions at our York showroom. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of the cleaner according to the instructions on the product label. Dip the microfiber mop or soft-bristled broom into the solution and start mopping the floors in small sections. Make sure to wring out the mop or broom thoroughly after each pass to avoid leaving excess water on the surface.
Step 5: Dry the Floor
Once you have finished mopping the floors, it’s important to dry them as soon as possible. Use a soft cloth or towel to absorb any excess water and prevent water spots from forming. Make sure to dry the corners and crevices thoroughly to avoid any damage to the floors.
Maintenance and Protecting Your Karndean Floor
To keep your Karndean floor looking its best for years to come, it’s important to take steps to protect it from scratches and scuffs. Place floor mats at entryways and high-traffic areas to catch dirt and debris, and use furniture pads under heavy pieces to prevent scratches. Depending on foot traffic, we recommend giving your Karndean flooring surface a bit of a refresh. Using Karndean’s Recover and Refresh products, also available at our showroom, to bring your floor back to life. Use the Recover product first to prepare your flooring by removing grease or stains, then Karndean Refresh will rejuvenate your floors surface to a beautiful satin shine.
To summarise, here are a few maintenance tips you can follow to care for your Karndean LVT:
- Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface
- Wipe up spills and stains immediately to prevent damage
- Avoid dragging heavy furniture or appliances across the surface
- Mop or sweep regularly to keep the floors free of dirt and debris
With these simple steps, you can effectively and efficiently clean your Karndean floor, keeping it looking its best for years to come.