How to Clean and Maintain Lino Flooring for Long-Lasting Results

 

Lino flooring, short for linoleum flooring and also called vinyl flooring, has been a household favourite for decades thanks to its durability, affordability, and timeless style. Whether you have lino in your kitchen, hallway, or living space, knowing how to clean and maintain it properly can keep it looking fresh and beautiful for many years. In this guide, we’ll cover simple cleaning techniques, preventative care tips, and ways to extend the life of your flooring.

Kuna Mayfair 109M Herringbone Lino Vinyl Flooring

What is Lino Flooring made of?

Vinyl flooring is made primarily from synthetic materials, with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as the main component. Often there are 4 main components:

Wear Layer (Top Layer)

• A clear, protective coating that resists scratches, stains, and scuffs.
• Sometimes has added textures for grip and to mimic wood or stone.

Design Layer

• A high-resolution printed film that gives the flooring its look (wood grain, stone effect, tiles, etc.).
• Advances in printing make this layer very realistic.

Core Layer

• Made of PVC and other additives, giving the floor strength, stability, and flexibility.
• In rigid-core vinyl (SPC/WPC types), this layer is reinforced with stone powder (SPC = stone plastic composite) or wood powder (WPC = wood plastic composite).

Backing Layer (Base)

• Provides stability, helps the flooring sit flat, and improves insulation.
• In some products, it’s cushioned for comfort or has an acoustic backing to reduce noise.

Why Lino Flooring Remains Popular

Lino Flooring It’s resilient underfoot, easy to clean, and available in a wide range of colours and patterns.

1. Affordability

• Vinyl is generally cheaper than natural wood, stone, or ceramic tiles and is quicker to install as well.
• It offers a “luxury look” at a fraction of the price, making it appealing for budget-conscious homeowners.

2. Wide Choice of Designs

• Modern vinyl flooring can realistically replicate wood, tile, and even herringbone effect flooring.
• With advances in printing technology, many ranges look very close to natural materials but without the upkeep.

3. Durability & Practicality

• Vinyl is water-resistant (sometimes fully waterproof), which makes it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms.
• It’s has scratch and stain-resistant properties, suiting family homes, rental properties, and high-traffic areas.

4. Comfort & Warmth

• Softer and warmer underfoot than tiles or laminate.
• Works well with underfloor heating, which is increasingly common in UK homes.

5. Easy Maintenance

• Simple to clean with a mop and suitable for households with kids and pets.
• Requires very little ongoing maintenance compared to wood or carpet.

6. Easy to Install

• Vinyl Flooring is quick to install, making it popular for landlords and quick refurbishments.

7. Versatility in Housing Styles

• From new-build homes to Victorian terraces, vinyl adapts to both modern and traditional interiors.
• Especially useful in the UK where space can be tight, and practicality is highly valued.

8. Energy & Lifestyle Trends

• UK consumers are increasingly looking for low-maintenance, cost-effective flooring that still looks stylish.
• Vinyl ticks all those boxes, making it a strong alternative to carpet or laminate.

Daily Cleaning for Lino Flooring

One of the biggest advantages of lino flooring is that it doesn’t require complicated cleaning routines. A quick daily sweep with a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum (using the hard floor setting) helps to remove dust and grit that can scratch the surface.

For everyday spills, simply wipe with a damp cloth or mop. Use warm water and avoid soaking the floor, as excessive moisture can seep into seams over time.

Weekly and Deep Cleaning Tips

To keep your lino flooring looking vibrant, aim to give it a deeper clean once a week. Here’s how:

• Vacuum or Sweep First – Always remove loose dirt before mopping.
• Mop with Mild Detergent – Use a bucket of warm water with a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid abrasive or ammonia-based products.
• Rinse and Dry – Mop again with clean water to remove any residue, then dry with a microfibre cloth to prevent streaking.

If you have lino in high-traffic areas like a lino kitchen, consider applying a specialist lino polish every few months. This helps to protect the surface while adding a gentle, polished finish.

Check out our best collection of Lino Kitchen Flooring

Preventative Care to Extend Lino’s Life

• While lino is tough, it still benefits from a little extra care:
• Use Door Mats – Place mats at entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and grit that gets tracked inside.
• Avoid Dragging Furniture – Lift rather than slide heavy objects to prevent scratches.
• Protect from Sunlight – Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade colours, so use blinds or rugs where possible.

If you’re updating your home on a budget, you might consider mixing lino in some rooms and vinyl flooring in others for cost efficiency without compromising on style.

Shop our best vinyl flooring at cheap prices by getting the latest offers.

Removing Stains Safely

Accidents happen, but with the right approach, most stains can be removed without damaging your lino flooring:

• Food and Drink - Wipe immediately with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Grease Marks - Sprinkle with bicarbonate of soda, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
• Scuff Marks - Gently rub with a white pencil eraser or a soft cloth dipped in a small amount of mineral spirits.

Carpets Online - Your Trusted Destination for Quality Flooring Solutions

Carpets Online is a convenient and trusted destination for quality flooring solutions, offering a wide range of stylish carpets and vinyl options to suit every home and budget. With an easy-to-use website, expert guidance, and competitive prices, they make finding the perfect flooring simple and stress-free. From plush designs for cosy living rooms to durable choices for busy areas, Carpets Online combines great value with exceptional service, delivering directly to your door.

Final Thoughts

With just a little regular care, lino flooring can stay beautiful for decades. By sweeping away dirt, mopping gently, polishing periodically, and protecting it from excess moisture, you’ll enjoy flooring that looks as good as the day it was laid. Whether it’s for a cosy kitchen or a bustling hallway, lino remains a practical and stylish choice for UK homes.