11 Easy Ways to Clean Oil Off Your Vinyl Floor
Vinyl flooring is known for its durability and low maintenance, but it’s not immune to getting dirty. Specifically, oil stains can be unsightly and stubborn. If you’ve found yourself with an oily area on your vinyl floor, don’t fret. Here are 11 easy ways to clean oil off your vinyl floor without causing damage.
1. Warm Soapy Water
Using a mixture of warm water and dish soap, gently scrub the oil stain with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a towel.
2. Baking Soda Paste
Combine baking soda and water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth.
3. White Vinegar Solution
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the oily area and use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the stain gently. Rinse and dry.
4. Rubbing Alcohol
Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton pad or cloth and gently dab it onto the oil stain. Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth before drying the area.
5. WD-40
Spray a small amount of WD-40 onto the oil stain and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Wipe away excess WD-40 using a paper towel or clean cloth, then clean the spot with soapy water as in step one.
6. Petroleum Jelly
Apply petroleum jelly directly to the oil stain and let it sit for an hour or two before gently wiping away with warm soapy water.
7. Cat Litter
Pour cat litter onto the oily area (using fresh, unused litter) and leave it in place overnight or for several hours. Sweep up the cat litter then follow up with warm soapy water if needed.
8. Cornstarch
Sprinkle cornstarch over the oil stain and let it absorb the oil for 30 minutes before sweeping up the excess. Wipe the area with warm soapy water if needed.
9. Goo Gone
Apply a small amount of Goo Gone to a cloth and gently rub on the oil stain. Wipe away with a damp cloth, then give the area a final wipe with soapy water.
10. Baby Powder
Cover the oily area with baby powder, allowing it to sit for about an hour before sweeping it up and wiping the spot down with warm soapy water.
11. Lemon Essential Oil
Add a few drops of lemon essential oil onto a clean cloth and gently rub it on the oil stain. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and follow up with warm soapy water.
Remember always to test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous part of your floor to ensure that it will not cause damage or discoloration. Using these tips, you can easily and effectively clean oil off your vinyl floor, leaving it looking as good as new.