Can Murphy’s Oil Soap Be Used on Vinyl Plank Flooring?

You’ve finally achieved your dream – a beautiful, durable vinyl plank floor. But as you start to think about cleaning, a question arises: “Can I use Murphy’s Oil Soap on my new flooring?” After all, it’s a trusted household cleaner, known for its gentle touch and streak-free shine. But before you grab that bottle, let’s explore the truth about using Murphy’s Oil Soap on vinyl plank floors.

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Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice for its affordability, durability, and water resistance. But like any type of flooring, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty and longevity. The question of whether or not Murphy’s Oil Soap is safe for vinyl plank floors is an important one, as the wrong cleaning product can damage the surface, leaving it dull, scratched, or even warped.

Understanding Vinyl Plank Flooring

What is vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring is a type of synthetic flooring that mimics the look and feel of real wood planks. It’s made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) mixed with other materials, giving it a durable and water-resistant composition. The planks are often designed with realistic wood grain patterns and textures, offering a beautiful aesthetic without the high cost and maintenance of real wood.

The benefits of vinyl plank flooring

Vinyl plank flooring has several significant benefits, making it a popular choice for homes and commercial spaces:

• Durability: Vinyl plank floors are known for their strength and resistance to scratches, dents, and stains.
• Water resistance: This makes them ideal for areas prone to spills, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
• Easy maintenance: Vinyl plank floors are relatively easy to clean and maintain.
• Affordability: Vinyl plank flooring is generally more affordable than wood flooring, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.
• Variety of styles: Vinyl planks come in a wide array of colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to create a unique look for your space.

Image: www.woodfloorscleaner.com

The Pros and Cons of Using Murphy’s Oil Soap on Vinyl Plank Flooring

Murphy’s Oil Soap is often touted as a safe and effective cleaner for various surfaces, including hardwood floors. But when it comes to vinyl plank floors, things get a little trickier. Here’s a breakdown of the potential pros and cons:

Pros:

• Gentle cleaning: Murphy’s Oil Soap is a relatively mild cleaner, not as harsh as some chemical-based cleaners. It can effectively remove dirt, dust, and grime without damaging the surface.
• Streak-free shine: Many find that Murphy’s Oil Soap leaves a natural shine on vinyl plank floors without leaving streaks. This can help enhance the appearance of your flooring.
• Pleasant scent: The familiar, refreshing scent of Murphy’s Oil Soap can make cleaning a more enjoyable experience.

Cons:

• Potential for build-up: While Murphy’s Oil Soap is generally considered safe for most types of flooring, some manufacturers recommend against using soap-based cleaners on vinyl plank floors. The reason is that soap can leave behind a residue that attracts dirt and grime over time, leading to a buildup.
• Loss of finish: Over time, repeated use of Murphy’s Oil Soap on vinyl plank floors could potentially strip the protective finish on the surface. This can make the floor more susceptible to scratches and damage.

Understanding Vinyl Plank Flooring Finishes

To understand why soap-based cleaners like Murphy’s Oil Soap might not be the best choice for vinyl plank flooring, it’s helpful to understand the different types of finishes used on these floors:

UV-cured finishes:

This type of finish, which is becoming increasingly common on vinyl planks, is applied using a UV light curing process. The UV light helps to harden and seal the finish, creating a durable and protective layer. UV-cured finishes are typically resistant to scratches, spills, and fade.

Wax finishes:

Wax finishes are another option for vinyl plank flooring. These finishes provide a protective layer, but they tend to be less durable than UV-cured finishes. Wax finishes need to be regularly reapplied to maintain their effectiveness.

No finish:

Some vinyl plank floors come with no finish, leaving the surface more vulnerable to damage. If your floor is unfinished, it’s essential to use a cleaner that is specifically designed for no-finish vinyl plank floors.

Choosing the Best Cleaning Method for Your Vinyl Plank Floors

Ultimately, the best way to clean your vinyl plank floors is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. They will provide specific guidelines on how to clean and maintain your flooring to ensure its longevity.

General cleaning tips for vinyl plank floors:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and dust.
• For spills, blot immediately with a clean cloth or sponge.
• Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for vinyl plank flooring.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or ammonia-based products.
• Avoid using cleaning tools with hard bristles, which can scratch the surface.

Alternatives to Murphy’s Oil Soap for Vinyl Plank Floors

If you’re looking for a safe and effective cleaner for your vinyl plank floors, here are some alternatives to Murphy’s Oil Soap that are specifically designed for these types of floors:

• Vinyl plank floor cleaners: These cleaners are formulated to clean and protect vinyl plank floors without damaging the surface. They often contain ingredients that help to remove dirt and grime, while also leaving a protective layer.
• Diluted white vinegar: White vinegar is a natural cleaner that can effectively remove dirt and grime without leaving behind residue. Simply mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, apply it to your floors, and then mop as usual.
• Baking soda paste: For tougher stains, you can make a paste out of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a soft brush and rinse with clean water.

Protecting Your Vinyl Plank Floors from Damage

Beyond regular cleaning, here are some tips to protect your vinyl plank floors from damage:

• Use doormats: Doormats can help trap dirt and debris before it is tracked onto your floors.
• Place furniture pads: Placing furniture pads underneath the legs of furniture helps to prevent scratches and dents.
• Avoid high-heeled shoes: High heels can leave deep indentations in vinyl plank floors.
• Rotate furniture regularly: Rotating furniture every few months helps prevent wear and tear in one area of the floor.
• Clean up spills immediately: Spills can damage vinyl plank floors if left untreated, so it’s important to clean up messes as soon as possible.

Can Murphy’S Oil Soap Be Used On Vinyl Plank Flooring

Conclusion

While Murphy’s Oil Soap might seem like a safe and effective cleaner for your vinyl plank flooring, it’s best to err on the side of caution and use a cleaner specifically designed for these types of floors. By following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and using the right products, you can help ensure the longevity and beauty of your vinyl plank floors for years to come. So, skip the Murphy’s Oil Soap for your vinyl planks, and opt for a cleaner that will keep your floors looking their best.