The best way to clean linoleum floors – 5 simple steps to a spotless shine with our expert-approved method

Linoleum floors are a popular, low-maintenance choice for many homes, boasting impressive durability. However, it is still possible to damage them with harsh chemicals – so what is the best way to clean linoleum floors?

Professional cleaners suggest that to maintain its shine and longevity, it’s important to use gentle yet effective cleaning solutions.

From daily upkeep to deep cleaning, our experts have covered the tools and cleaning tips you need to keep your floors looking fresh. Whether you're dealing with scuffs, spills, or just everyday dirt.

The best way to clean linoleum floors

To clean a floor without streaks, you need the essential cleaning supplies that will be tough on dirt but gentle on your floors.

What you'll need

• A vacuum or broom, such as this bestselling broom and dustpan set at Amazon
• Warm water
• Dish soap, such as Dawn soap, at Walmart
• A microfiber mop, available at Amazon
• White vinegar, available at Walmart
• Optional: A linoleum cleaner, such as Quick Shine Floor Finish from Walmart
• A clean, dry towel

1. Remove loose debris

Before you mop, it is best to remove loose debris with the best vacuum cleaner, or a dustpan and brush. This will remove any small particles and debris that could risk scratching the floor or spread dirt around when you move on to mopping.

Use the handheld attachments on your vacuum to go around the edges of the room and pick up any debris that might have been kicked to the side or stuck around the edges or in crevices.

All prices correct at time of writing.

2. Mop with soapy water

It is then important to mop the floors the right way.

Jade Piper, operations manager for BetterCleans says, ‘The simplest trick to clean linoleum flooring is just with a microfiber mop, dish soap, and warm water. It’s great for removing dirt without being too harsh.

‘Put a few drops of Dawn in a bucket of warm water, mop, and rinse with clean water. Believe me, there will be no sticky residue (as long as you rinse it well afterward). Just make sure to wring out your mop well so you don’t leave puddles.

‘Great mop candidates are O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop, from Amazon, since you can simply throw the head in the washer if it gets too dirty. Mops are soft so they won’t scratch the linoleum, and they pick up everything. The Bona Premium Microfiber Mop, also at Amazon, is a good one too if you want to cover a lot of ground fast.’

3. Avoid harsh chemicals

Although linoleum is hardwearing, it is best to avoid harsh chemicals – even when cleaning kitchen grease, or tackling stains. It is always better to stick to green cleaning alternatives.

Logan Taylor, cleaning expert at Dazzle Cleaning Company says, ‘Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. These products can strip away the protective layer of the flooring and cause damage over time. It is also important to avoid scrubbing too hard or using excessive water when cleaning as this can also cause damage to the flooring.

‘For tougher stains, you can use a mild dish soap or clean with vinegar, making a mixture of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water to target specific areas. Apply the solution with a sponge or cloth and gently scrub the stain. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward.'

4. Use a linoleum cleaner for tough grease spots

If vinegar has not worked for cleaning your tougher floor stains, you can also opt for a commercial linoleum cleaner.

Logan Taylor, cleaning expert, says, ‘I personally recommend using a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for linoleum flooring. These cleaners below are gentle on the surface while still effectively removing dirt and grime.’

5. Dry thoroughly

Much like mopping hardwood flooring, you need to completely dry your linoleum floors after mopping to avoid warping or damage.

Cleaning pro Logan Taylor adds, ‘After mopping, be sure to dry the floor thoroughly with a clean towel or cloth. This will prevent any water from sitting on the surface and causing damage over time.’

Remembering to wring out your mop for cleaning the linoleum will make this step easier, as you have less moisture to deal with. You can also use the best dehumidifier to help speed up the drying process.

For general, day-to-day upkeep of your linoleum, you can also clean floors efficiently with a steam mop. Pick the best steam cleaner with a linoleum setting for the best results when staying on top of dust and dirt.