Removing Stains from Linoleum

Written by Amy Gordon (last updated October 9, 2023)

The good thing about linoleum floors is that they are easy to clean and require comparatively low maintenance. Paradoxically, that causes most users to use linoleum floors so roughly that they often take far more than their normal share of wear, tear, and stains until their shine is lost. Being a natural material that is derived from powdered linseed, linoleum does not react favorably to water and alkaline solutions, so be careful to use little water and no bleach when removing stains from linoleum.

A very good anti-stain measure is to polish the floor regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt, grime, and assorted stains. Removing stains from linoleum can often be a tricky business because you may have to use water, which will make your floor vulnerable to moisture damage. Moisture can decrease the natural antibacterial powers of linoleum, which make it mold and mildew-resistant. Therefore, make sure you use only reputable linoleum cleaners and follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter.

Since most stains on linoleum can be removed using the same cleaning techniques, it would be more convenient to discuss all-purpose cleaning methods for various stains rather than talk about specific solutions for particular stains.

For relatively fresh stains, sweep or vacuum the linoleum to make sure that no dirt particles remain. Next, dilute the required amount of your preferred linoleum floor cleaner in a bucket of water (about one gallon is a standard measure) and, using a clean rag, wipe the floor gently. Should you find that the rag or the water is getting too dirty, remix the solution and replace the rag. Once the stain has come off to your satisfaction, air dry the linoleum.

For more stubborn stains, first free the floor of all excess dirt and grime using a vacuum cleaner. Next, dilute a mild detergent in water and mop the stained area or areas lightly with a clean rag soaked in the solution. In order for the detergent to work on the stain, you must let it stand for some time, though be careful not to wait too long since water can damage your linoleum. After about five minutes, wipe off the detergent with another rag dampened with plain water and let the area air dry.

Alternatively, once you have vacuumed your floor, remove all traces of wax from it using a commercial wax stripper available at hardware stores. These are usually accompanied by manufacturer's instructions and ought to remove the wax thoroughly. Once all the wax is gone, mix white vinegar and lukewarm water in equal proportions in a spray bottle. Spray the floor with the vinegar mixture, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth. This technique should take care of all kinds of stains. Once you have dried the floor thoroughly, re-wax and polish it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Remember, with proper care, linoleum can look good for years and years, but you must assume that responsibility. Do not allow dirt and grime to accumulate on the floor, because larger particles tend to abrade the surface, thus making it more prone to stains and scratches. Finally, avoid using strong chemicals, which may destroy the natural properties of linoleum.

Author Bio

Amy Gordon

Amy Gordon loves keeping things simple, natural, and safe so she can spend more time having fun. Every day she learns new things about making life at home easier and she loves to share it with you! ...

MORE FROM AMY

Quick Clean Your Curtains and Bedspreads

Curtains and bedspreads are hard to clean, and running them through a wash cycle could damage them. To clean these items ...

Discover More

Keep Fingerprints Off Walls

Fingerprints on walls tend to congregate around light switches and electrical outlets. To prevent these fingerprints from ...

Discover More

Removing Oil Stains from Fabric

Most oil stains can be easily removed from clothing with soap or detergent. Just pre-treat the stain, rinse everything ...

Discover More

Tough Cleaning Jobs Require Brawny! Brawny paper towels provide the versatility you need: the strength for demanding jobs and the softness to clean up your child's messy face. This 24-roll pack of pick-a-size sheets can handle just about every cleaning task in your home. Check out Brawny 24-Pack Giant Paper Towels today!

More Cleaning Tips

Removing Food Stains from Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring, while a beautiful addition to the home can be a serious pain in the butt. That being said, they are ...

Discover More

Removing Stains from Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo flooring is beautiful and can last for a long time, if you take care of it properly. But what to do about stains? ...

Discover More

Repairing Stained Linoleum

There are times when no matter what we try, it seems like we can't get that stubborn stain out of the linoleum. In ...

Discover More
Subscribe

FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in Cleaning Tips from Tips.Net. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."

View most recent newsletter.

Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is five more than 0?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)


Newest Tips
Subscribe

FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in Cleaning Tips from Tips.Net. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."

(Your e-mail address is not shared with anyone, ever.)

View the most recent newsletter.