• Put away the broom and use a vacuum instead to clean vinyl floors.broom image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com
  
  Vinyl floors are relatively low-maintenance because of their hard and waterproof surfaces that wipe off easily. However, not all types of cleaners work well with vinyl floors and regular sweeping and mopping can take lots of time and effort. A few tips help homemakers care for vinyl floors quickly without damaging them.
  
  

Vacuuming

• Many people do not consider vacuuming floors that are not carpeted, but vacuuming a vinyl floor can save time. Martha Stewart suggests using a floor attachment without scratchy bristles to vacuum hard floors. Vacuuming is faster than sweeping and more easily picks up tiny dust particles that a broom may miss. Vacuums are especially helpful after powdery cooking spills, like when a child knocks over the bag of flour while making cookies.
  
  

Solvent-based Cleaners

• The University of Florida IFAS Extension warns that solvent-based cleaners and polishes damage vinyl floors Therefore, use all-purpose cleaners or other water-based cleaners on vinyl flooring.
  
  

Floor Mats

• Floor mats can help prevent people and pets from tracking dirt throughout the house. However, the University of Florida IFAS Extension warns that floor mats with colored vinyl backings can stain vinyl floors. Choose a floor mat without vinyl backing for a vinyl floor or place mats on nearby floors that are not vinyl.
  
  

Natural Cleaner

• The Oregon Regional Metro Government offers a natural alternative to store-bought floor cleaners. Instead of buying a cleaner with harsh chemicals, mix 1 cup of vinegar in 2 gallons of warm water to mop up sticky spots and spills on vinyl floors. The acidic vinegar helps break down dirt on the floors but is safe to use around pets and children.
  
  

Heel Marks

• Rubber-soled shoes sometimes leave marks on vinyl floors. To remove these marks, the Oregon Metro Regional Government suggests a mixture of baking soda and vegetable-based soap. This paste should remove stubborn heel marks, but may also remove any floor polish. Therefore, remove heel marks before re-polishing the floor.