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What causes linoleum floors to become sticky?
There are a few common causes for linoleum floors to become sticky:
- Build up of dirt, grime, and residue from cleaning products can leave a sticky residue on the surface of the linoleum.
- Spills of sugary or acidic liquids like juice, soda, alcohol, etc. can leave a sticky residue when they dry.
- Humidity and heat can make the linoleum feel tacky.
- Using the wrong types of cleaning products, like oil-based cleaners, can leave a sticky residue.
- The flooring is old and the top layer has started to break down, causing it to become gummy.
- Wax build up from past waxing jobs can cause stickiness if too much wax was applied.
The most common reasons linoleum floors turn sticky are spills, improper cleaning, and wax buildup. Humidity and breakdown of the flooring material itself can also cause stickiness in some cases.
How to clean sticky linoleum floors
Here are some tips on how to clean sticky linoleum floors:
1. Sweep or vacuum the floor
The first step is to thoroughly sweep or vacuum the linoleum flooring to remove any loose dirt, debris, or crumbs that could be contributing to the sticky residue. Make sure to get into the corners and crevices. This will prepare the floor for deep cleaning.
2. Wash with a linoleum floor cleaner
Use a floor cleaning solution made specifically for linoleum floors. Look for a product that cleans deeply but is mild enough not to damage the flooring. Stay away from oil-based cleaners. Mix the cleaning solution with warm water according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Mop the flooring using the linoleum floor cleaner, allowing the solution to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. For extremely sticky floors, you may need to scrub with a brush or pad to help break up the stickiness. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
3. Rinse with clear water
It’s important to rinse away any cleaning solution residue with clear water. Residue left behind from the cleaner can sometimes contribute to stickiness. Rinse the mop head frequently as you are rinsing the floor.
You may need to rinse 2-3 times to make sure all the cleaning solution is removed. Wring the mop out thoroughly each time to prevent re-depositing grimy water back onto the floor.
4. Vinegar rinse
For extremely sticky floors that need an extra boost, do a final rinse with a solution of 1 cup white vinegar mixed with 1 gallon of warm water. The vinegar will help cut through sticky grime.
Rinse the floor with the vinegar solution, then rinse once more with clear water to remove any vinegar residue. Let the floor dry fully.
5. Use a dehumidifier
If excessive humidity in the space is the culprit behind your sticky floors, use a dehumidifier to maintain humidity around 45-50%. Lower humidity will help prevent condensation from forming on the floors.
How to wax and maintain linoleum floors
Proper waxing and maintenance can help prevent linoleum floors from becoming sticky. Here are some tips:
Use the right wax
Always use a high quality floor wax made specifically for linoleum. Look for water-based formulas, not oil-based. Acrylic waxes work best for preventing stickiness.
Apply thin, even coats
Only apply wax in very thin, even layers according to the manufacturer directions. Thick coats of wax can lead to build up and stickiness over time.
Regularly strip wax
Wax build up is a major cause of sticky linoleum floors. Every 6-12 months, strip off the old wax with a wax stripper. This will remove any gummy residue and allow you to start fresh.
Clean before re-waxing
Always clean the floors thoroughly before applying a new coat of wax. This will help the new wax adhere properly.
Consider sealers
Using a linoleum sealer before waxing can help protect the floors and prevent stickiness. Look for water-based acrylic sealers.
| Cleaning Product | Notes |
|---|---|
| Linoleum floor cleaner | Use mild, water-based cleaners made for linoleum |
| White vinegar | Helps cut through sticky residue |
| Wax stripper | Required to remove wax build up |
| Acrylic wax | Prevents stickiness when applied in thin layers |
| Linoleum sealer | Offers extra protection before waxing |
Tips for preventing sticky linoleum floors
Here are some tips to help prevent your newly cleaned linoleum floors from becoming sticky again:
Clean up spills quickly
Don’t let sugary spills dry on the flooring. Clean messes immediately to prevent residue.
Use doormats
Place mats outside and inside doorways to prevent dirt and grime from being tracked in.
Avoid oil-based cleaners
Stick to mild, water-based cleaners designed for linoleum floors. Don’t use oil-based products.
Sweep and mop regularly
Regularly sweep and mop to prevent dirt buildup that can lead to stickiness.
Re-apply floor wax 1-2 times per year
Regularly re-coat floors with a thin layer of acrylic wax to protect the surface.
Invest in a dehumidifier
Maintain humidity around 45-50% to discourage condensation.
Clean under appliances and furniture
Don’t forget to clean under appliances, cabinets, and furniture where sticky grime can hide.
When to call a professional
For severe stickiness or wax buildup issues, it may be best to hire a professional floor cleaning service to deep clean and re-finish the floors. Professionals have commercial equipment and strong cleaning solutions to thoroughly strip wax, deep clean, and re-seal the floors.
You may need to replace extremely old or damaged linoleum flooring if the stickiness cannot be remedied through deep cleaning procedures.
Conclusion
Sticky linoleum floors are commonly caused by spills, improper cleaning methods, wax buildup, and high humidity. Thorough cleaning using linoleum floor cleaner and vinegar can help cut through sticky residue. Maintaining proper waxing procedures and cleaning regularly can prevent recurrence. For severe stickiness or wax buildup, call a professional floor cleaning service for the best results. Investing in professional cleaning or replacement of old flooring will help restore your linoleum floors to a fresh, shine-free surface.