Linoleum flooring is an easy-to-maintain, beautifully designed flooring option that many homeowners choose. But time isn’t the only thing dragging on your floor – people, furniture, pets, and even items like rubber mats or sunlight can impact your linoleum flooring. This can cause unsavoury discolouration or a yellow appearance.

If your linoleum flooring starts to appear yellow, don’t fret just yet! Simple solutions using floor care products can effectively remove linoleum stains. Keep reading to learn more about removing linoleum staining and keeping your flooring in optimal condition.

Causes of Yellow Stains on Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is a durable, eco-friendly, long-lasting option. Since it’s made of natural materials, like linseed oil and rosins, when these materials are blocked from sunlight, they can begin to oxide. This oxidation is typically the culprit responsible for the yellowing and discolouration over time.

Incorrectly Installed Linoleum Flooring
If the linoleum flooring in your home has been incorrectly installed, it can entrap moisture through the subfloor. This will cause yellowing from underneath the floor. If this is the case, you’ll see distinct discolouration where the moisture is trapped.

Reactionary Cleaning Products
The natural makeup of linoleum flooring can make it sensitive to acidic, chemical-based cleaning products like bleach or ammonia. These chemicals can wear down and react with sealant on linoleum floors. It’s recommended to use a mild dishwasher detergent or neutral pH cleaner instead.

UV Damage
Direct sunlight and harsh UV rays are renowned for discolouring furniture and hardwood floors – your linoleum floors are no exception. Long-term UV exposure can cause certain areas to fade. If left untreated, the discolouration can become permanently damaged and may require replacing the affected surfaces.

Contact with certain materials
Furniture, equipment, and certain materials like rubber that sit on your linoleum floor for extended periods of time can result in discolouration. Rubber products, particularly, contain “plasticizers” that leach into the floor, causing discolouration. It’s recommended to rotate furniture and rugs to help prevent discolouring.

How to Remove Yellow Stains From Linoleum Floors

The most effective and safest way to remove stains from linoleum flooring is to use a combination of high-quality cleaning products and a natural cleaning solution.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Linoleum floor cleaner
• Baking soda
• Lemon juice
• Sponge or soft rag
• Broom or vacuum
• Mop and bucket

Follow this step-by-step guide to remove yellow stains:

1. Vacuum or sweep away dirt and debris from the area.
2. Mix baking soda and lemon juice until they form a thick paste.
3. Apply baking soda and lemon juice paste directly onto the yellow stains.
4. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to lift the stains effectively.
5. Use a soft rag or sponge to wipe the mixture away. Do not scrub, or this may scratch the surface of the linoleum.
6. Mix 4 litres of hot water with a few drops of floor cleaner.
7. Dip your mop in the bucket and wring it out thoroughly before mopping your linoleum flooring.
8. Once complete, remove any lingering cleaning solution or flooring care products by rinsing the floor with clean hot water. You’ll want to dry the surface with towels since excess and sitting moisture can damage linoleum flooring.

How often your linoleum flooring needs to be cleaned depends on several factors. How heavily trafficked is the space? Is it in an area where dirt, mud, and grime are frequent? Does your linoleum flooring often see food or liquid spills?

It’s ideal to sweep regularly and mop weekly to maintain your linoleum floor and keep it looking new.

Got Questions About Your Linoleum Flooring?

If you have any questions about your linoleum flooring, never hesitate to contact one of our flooring specialists here at Floor Trendz. Our knowledgeable staff has over 30 years of experience and know-how to help with any inquiries you may have.

Whether you need some assistance with maintaining your current flooring or are considering renovating your floors, we’re here to help. Contact us at 403.474.4401 or visit our showroom today!