Cleaning Linoleum Floors: How to Remove Stains

If any area of your home features linoleum flooring that has fallen victim to stubborn stains, it's time to get serious about cleaning your linoleum floors. Fortunately, removing stains from linoleum flooring is a relatively easy procedure that can be successfully undertaken with a few basic cleaning tools. After carrying out the steps listed below, your linoleum flooring will be stain-free and sparkling like new.

Step 1 - Remove Dust From Your Flooring

The first step in cleaning your linoleum floors is to give your flooring a preliminary dusting. Begin by using a broom and dustpan to sweep up any noticeably large deposits, then go over the freshly swept flooring with a mini vac for good measure. Alternatively, this step can be carried out by using a dampened washcloth or paper towel to soak up any caked-on dust. Once your linoleum flooring has been completely purged of dust, you'll be ready to move on.

Step 2 - Clean Your Flooring

Now that they're dust-free, it's time to begin cleaning your linoleum floors. Start by combining a mixture of mild liquid soap and warm water in a clean empty spray bottle. Next, seal the bottle and proceed to shake it until the solution begins to sud. You'll now need to vigorously spray your linoleum flooring with the newly formed cleaning solution, after which you will need to give the cleaner several minutes to sit. Lastly, use a sponge or nonabrasive washcloth to thoroughly scrub your floors using broad, circular motions. Make sure to pay special attention to any stained areas of flooring, as this may be enough to remove fresh stains. If any stains remain on your linoleum flooring after this step has been carried out, proceed with step 3.

Step 3 - Apply Your Homemade Stain Remover

Having carried out a thorough cleaning, you're now ready to remove any set-in stains on your linoleum flooring. Inside of a plastic bowl, combine a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice, then stir the mixture until it takes on a paste-like consistency. Follow up by using a washcloth or paper towel to evenly spread the newly formed paste over any stained areas of your flooring. Once the paste has been applied, allow it to sit for 3 to 5 minutes to give it ample time to penetrate and lift the stains. Afterward, use a sponge, washcloth or soft-bristled scrub brush to scrub the stains off your linoleum flooring.

Step 4 - Carry out Your Finishing Touches

After cleaning your linoleum floors, you'll be ready to perform the final step in the stain removal process. Begin by filling another empty spray bottle with warm water and rinsing off any remaining portions of your stain remover. Then, use a clean nonabrasive cloth to dry the now stain-free areas.