How to Clean Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors Like a Pro (Without Losing Your Mind)

When I first moved into my apartment, I was obsessed with my luxury vinyl plank floors. They looked sleek, modern, and almost too perfect to touch. 

Fast forward a few months—and a few muddy dog paws later—and I realized I had no idea how to clean luxury vinyl plank flooring without ruining that showroom shine. 

I tried everything from vinegar sprays to “miracle” TikTok hacks, and let’s just say… not all of them were kind to my floors.

After a few learning moments (and some near disasters involving bleach), I finally found a cleaning routine that works. 

So, if you’ve ever stared at your LVP floors wondering what’s safe and what’s not, I’ve got you covered.

Why Is It So Important to Know How to Clean Luxury Vinyl Plank Properly?

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) floors are durable and gorgeous—but they’re also a little high-maintenance when it comes to cleaning. 

I learned that the hard way. Use too much water, and you risk warping. Use the wrong cleaner, and the finish loses its luster.

LVP may look like hardwood, but it’s not built the same. It has a protective wear layer that can break down if you use harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes. So, the trick isn’t to scrub harder—it’s to clean smarter.

I now treat my floors the way I treat my skincare routine: gentle, consistent, and with the right products. Once you get into the habit, it’s surprisingly easy to keep them spotless.

What’s the Best Way to Clean Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors Every Day?

For everyday upkeep, I swear by a quick sweep or vacuum and a light mop once or twice a week. You don’t need fancy tools—just a soft touch and a bit of consistency.

Start with a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hard-floor setting. Skip the beater bar; it can scratch the vinyl like sandpaper. Even tiny bits of grit can dull the surface over time, so removing them regularly is key.

Next, grab a microfiber mop and dampen it slightly with water or a pH-neutral cleaner made for vinyl. I emphasize “damp,” not wet. 

Too much water seeps into the seams and causes warping. I like to think of it as giving the floor a refreshing facial, not a shower.

How Do You Deep Clean Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors Without Damaging Them?

Sometimes, regular cleaning just won’t cut it—especially if you’ve had a busy week or spilled something sticky. That’s when I go for a deeper clean, but I still avoid anything too harsh.

Here’s what I do:

1. Mix a mild solution — I combine one gallon of warm water with a capful of pH-neutral cleaner. If I’m feeling thrifty, I use one cup of white vinegar per gallon of water instead.
2. Mop with the grain — I work in small sections using my microfiber mop, moving in the direction of the planks. It prevents streaks and helps lift grime evenly.
3. Rinse and repeat — After the first pass, I rinse the mop with clean water and go over the floor again to remove any residue.
4. Dry completely — I finish by wiping the floor with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

It’s amazing how just these few steps make the planks look brand new again—without needing a single drop of polish.

How Do You Remove Tough Stains from Luxury Vinyl Plank?

If you have kids, pets, or a coffee addiction like me, stains are unavoidable. But the good news is that LVP handles them pretty well with the right tricks.

• Scuff marks: I rub them gently with a pencil eraser or even a tennis ball. It’s oddly satisfying watching them vanish.
• Grease and crayon: A dab of mineral spirits on a clean cloth works wonders. Just wipe it off with a damp cloth right after.
• Makeup or ink: A touch of isopropyl alcohol or acetone-free nail polish remover usually does the trick.
• Food stains (like wine or mustard): I make a baking soda paste, leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then wipe it clean.

Whenever I’m tackling a stain, I remind myself not to panic. Most marks can be lifted gently—you just need patience and the right cleaner.

What Should You Never Use When Cleaning Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors?

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned the hard way, it’s this: not every cleaner belongs near your LVP. Some products promise shine but end up doing long-term damage.

Avoid these at all costs:

• Abrasive tools like steel wool or stiff brushes—they scratch the surface.
• Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia—they break down the vinyl’s finish.
• Mop-and-shine products—they leave sticky films that attract more dirt.
• Wax or polish—LVP doesn’t need them; it already has a protective coating.
• Steam cleaners—the heat and moisture can loosen adhesive and warp planks.

Your goal is to clean the floor, not strip its protection. Think “spa day” for your vinyl, not boot camp.

Quick Reference Table: My Go-To LVP Cleaning Routine

Keeping this simple schedule has saved me countless hours and kept my floors consistently looking photo-ready.

FAQs About How to Clean Luxury Vinyl Plank

Q1: Can I use vinegar to clean luxury vinyl plank floors?

Yes! Mix one cup of white vinegar with a gallon of warm water. It’s mild enough for regular cleaning and cuts through grease without dulling the finish. Just make sure to rinse with clean water afterward.

Q2: How do I make my luxury vinyl plank floors shine again?

Skip the wax—your floors already have a built-in sheen. The best way to restore shine is to clean with a pH-neutral cleaner, rinse well, and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

Q3: Is it okay to use a steam mop on luxury vinyl plank flooring?

Nope. Steam can weaken the adhesive beneath the planks and cause them to warp or peel over time. Stick to a damp mop and gentle cleaner instead.

Q4: What’s the best cleaner for luxury vinyl plank floors?

Look for cleaners labeled “vinyl-safe” or “pH-neutral.” My personal favorites are simple ones—no harsh fragrances or chemical brighteners.

Polished Floors, Peaceful Mind

I’ll be honest—learning how to clean luxury vinyl plank flooring took some trial and error. But now, it’s become one of those easy, almost meditative chores. I throw on a podcast, grab my mop, and within minutes, the floors are gleaming again.

My final tip? Less is more. Gentle cleaners, soft tools, and consistency are all you need. Treat your LVP kindly, and it’ll reward you with that just-installed glow for years.