How to Remove Tough Stains from Vinyl Flooring (And Keep It Looking Great)

Vinyl flooring is one of the most practical choices for South African homes. It’s durable, easy to maintain, and looks good in almost any room. But tough stains can still happen — coffee spills, shoe scuffs, wine accidents, or marks left behind by kids and pets. Luckily, most stains can be removed without specialized products or damaging your floors, as long as you use the right approach.

Start with Gentle Cleaning First

Before trying anything heavy, always begin with the mildest method. Mix a few drops of normal dish soap with warm water. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or a microfibre mop to gently scrub the stain. This alone can lift many everyday marks like food spills, dirt, or light grease. It’s also a great reminder to sweep or vacuum before mopping, because trapped grit can scratch the vinyl surface if pushed around too much.

Use a Baking Soda Paste for Deep Stains

If the dish soap method doesn’t work, baking soda is your next step. Make a thick paste by mixing baking soda with a little bit of water. Apply it directly onto the stain and let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then wipe it away using a soft cloth in circular motions. Baking soda is just abrasive enough to remove tough marks like dried spills or grime without scratching the vinyl.

Try Rubbing Alcohol for Ink or Scuff Marks

Ink stains, permanent marker, or dark rubber scuffs sometimes need something stronger. Rubbing alcohol (also called isopropyl alcohol) works well in small amounts. Put a bit onto a cotton cloth and gently blot or rub the stain. You’ll usually see the pigment lift almost instantly. Once done, rinse with clean water to remove any residue. Always test in a hidden corner first to be safe.

Use Vinegar or Lemon for Food-Based Stains

For stains caused by food, drinks, or anything organic, a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water can be very effective. Apply it to the stain, let it soak for a short while, then wipe clean. Lemon juice can work similarly for some stains — the natural acid helps break them down — but it should be used lightly and rinsed afterward.

Avoid Harsh Tools and Harsh Chemicals

No matter how stubborn the stain is, avoid steel wool, hard scrubbing pads, or strong chemicals like acetone and undiluted bleach. These can permanently damage the clear protective layer on vinyl flooring, leaving dull patches or scratches.

A Few Simple Care Tips

Clean spills as soon as they happen to prevent long-term staining. Use felt pads under furniture to prevent marks. Keep doormats at entrances to stop grit from being tracked inside, and dry the floor after cleaning to avoid water spots or slippery patches.

With these gentle, practical methods, you can remove almost any tough stain on vinyl flooring while keeping your floors looking bright, clean, and long-lasting.