“What are the best easy-to-clean floors?” It’s a common question, and for many different reasons. Some homeowners want floors that can withstand pet accidents, while others are concerned about frequent spills and high traffic. In kitchens, homeowners want floors that are easy-to-clean from daily foot and paw traffic and an easy wipe-up after a spill. Plus, there’s all the activity that can make messes in craft rooms, play rooms, and basements.
Best all-around easy-to-clean flooring
Luxury vinyl plank
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is at the top of the easy to clean floors list because this floor checks off almost every box. LVP floors only require a regular sweep or vacuum and occasional mop. (After mopping, cleaners should be careful not to leave puddles.) They are designed for durability with a multi-layer construction. Luxury vinyl floors wear well and are water-resistant.
In addition to durability and easy-to-clean, luxury vinyl plank floors are also known for their look. LVP floors closely resemble wood floors, but without the worry about water damage associate with wood floors. Luxury vinyl plank are available in a variety of styles and colors, including wide- and narrow-plank wood floors and stone tiles.
Waterproof easy-to-clean flooring
Sheet vinyl
Sheet vinyl flooring is the clear champion in the durability and easy-to-clean durability. Sheet vinyl floors only require a regular sweep or vacuum and occasional mop. Because they don’t have seams, sheet vinyl floors can withstand all the moisture and puddles that are common in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. In addition to being an easy-to-clean floors, modern sheet vinyl floors are available in a wide variety of styles and colors.
Upscale easy-to-clean flooring
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring adds an upscale look to any room. In addition to being gorgeous, wood floors are an easy-to-clean floor, requiring only a sweep or vacuum and occasional damp mop. Only manufacturer-approved cleaners should be used on wood floors to avoid damaging the finish.
There are a few notes of caution associated with wood flooring. Hardwood flooring can be prone to water damage from standing water; spills should be immediately wiped up. (In a home with frequent spills, ask a local flooring pro to see waterproof wood flooring.) Wood flooring can also be scratched by debris, which is why it should be swept or vacuumed to prevent damage. Rugs and mats by exterior doors can also catch debris before it is tracked in.
Soft easy-to-clean flooring
Stain-resistant carpet
Carpets with stain-resistant features is the best of both worlds: comfortable and easy-to-clean. Homeowners should look for carpets with stain-resistant features or carpets that trap allergens and release them during vacuuming. Carpets with shorter loops also are easier to clean. To keep them looking new, homeowners should also schedule a carpet cleaning every 12 to 18 months to remove tracked-in dirt.
Floor cleaning tips
- When buying new floors, ask local flooring pros to see easy-to-clean floors, such as water-resistant or stain-resistant flooring.
- Always use cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer to prevent discoloration and other damage. (Visit a local flooring store for more information on quality cleaning products.)
- When using new cleaning products, test them on areas that are in closets or under furniture to make sure the product doesn’t fade or damage flooring.
- Never leave standing water after cleaning floors. Use a fan or soft cloth to remove excess water after mopping.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaning products and scrubbers that can damage flooring.
- Place rugs by doors to keep gravel and other debris off of flooring.
- Always wipe off pets’ paws when they come in from outside.
- Schedule a deep cleaning for flooring annually or biannually (depending on the amount of traffic in the room) to keep floors looking new.
