Linoleum is a tough and durable surface material with very similar maintenance characteristics to wood. That being said, genuine linoleum is more susceptible to moisture and alkalinity. For that reason, we recommend using only our recommended linoleum cleaning products to ensure your flooring looks its best and is protected from irritants like dirt, grime, and excess moisture. It is also important that you refrain from wetting the surface, machine scrubbing, or stripping your floor for at least four days after installation, as this could allow excess moisture to interfere with the adhesive bonds or seam treatments in the flooring.
Steps For Regular Cleaning
In order to get the appearance you want and the reliability you need, follow these steps for cleaning your linoleum floor.
1. Sweep or vacuum the floor thoroughly
2. Use a floor cleaner (make sure to follow all instructions)
3. Wash the floor with a lightly dampened mop
4. Change the cleaning solution frequently
5. Allow the floor to dry.
Steps For Polishing
The process for polishing your linoleum floor will be very similar to the cleaning process, with a few extra steps included. You do not necessarily have to polish your floor after every cleaning, but giving it a good polish once a month or so will ensure your floor stays looking and performing as if it were brand new.
1. Sweep or vacuum the floor thoroughly
2. Use a floor cleaner (make sure to follow all instructions)
3. Wash the floor with a lightly dampened mop
4. Change the cleaning solution frequently
5. Allow the floor to dry.
6. Apply 2-3 coats commercial floor polish with a clean damp mop
7. Apply the polish in areas 3-4 square feet (do not pour it on the floor).
8. Let the floor dry for at least 30 minutes between coats
9. Allow the final coat at least 60 minutes to dry
Restorative Maintenance – Stripping
Stripping is the process of removing previously applied polish from your floor. This process should only be performed when routine cleaning is no longer enough to get your floor looking new again.
Linoleum Color Change
When linoleum is manufactured, a phenomenon known as “drying room yellow,” or “seasoning bloom,” “drying room film,” or “stove yellowing,” sometimes occurs that causes a yellowish cast to develop on the surface of the linoleum as a result of oxidizing linseed oil. While this may read as alarming, it is not a product defect. This kind of coloring affect is only temporary and will disappear after the linoleum is exposed to natural or artificial light, although the time it takes for this to happen ranges from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the type of light and the intensity of exposure.
Generally speaking, natural light will make the discoloration disappear faster, and the use of floor finishes will not interfere with the process. It is important that the entire area be exposed to light, as any room that is not will continue to bear the yellow discoloration.
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