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  • Cleaning Vinyl and Question
  • Cleaning Vinyl and Question
    From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean"
    episode DQOC-126


    Anyone who's ever had to keep a vinyl floor clean and in good shape knows what a challenge that can be. Here are some ideas that may make that chore a lot less of a drag.
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    • To repair a scuff, tear or gouge on a vinyl floor, apply clear nail polish to the underneath (floor) portion of the gouge. Use a dull straightedge (such as a wooden tongue depressor) to press the torn material into the polish (figure A). Recoat the entire area with the polish for a waterproof surface. Reapply topcoat as needed.

    • Gouges can also be filled in by building up layers of polish.

    • Scuffmarks can be removed from vinyl with a dryer fabric freshener sheet (figure B) or a dry soap-filled steel-wool pad.

    • To clean vinyl floors and keep them shiny, mix a tablespoon of borax in a gallon of warm water. The borax acts as a mild cleaner and will preserve the floor's shine.
    Photo

    Figure A

    Photo

    Figure B


    Q: What is the best way to remove stains in tile grout?

    A: Mix a solution of 2 cups baking soda, a cup of borax and a cup of hot water. Brush on the grout and rinse off.

    Q: Can you wax ceramic tile?

    A: Never wax ceramic tile floors. You can seal the tile grout, but tile is porous and should never be waxed.

    Q: Can borax and ammonia be used to clean a travertine floor?

    A: Borax by itself is best for a travertine floor, because it is milder. Use with a microfiber mop.

    Q: What's the best way to clean saltillo tile floors?

    A: Clean with either a mild solution of white vinegar and warm water, borax and water or a microfiber mop and water.

    Next: Repairing Damaged Hardwood Floors

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: