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blog banner: Remove scuff marks from your vinyl flooring

How To Remove Scuff Marks From Your Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is a popular choice in many homes and commercial spaces due to its durability and ease of maintenance. However, despite its robust nature, it can be susceptible to unsightly scuff marks from shoes, furniture, and other items. Removing these marks is essential for maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your floors. This guide will walk you through various methods to effectively remove scuff marks from vinyl flooring and provide tips to keep your floors in excellent condition.

What Are Scuff Marks? What Causes Them?

Scuff marks are superficial abrasions that typically do not penetrate deep into the material but can mar the surface of your vinyl flooring. They are usually caused by friction from objects moving across the floor, such as dragging furniture or the soles of shoes.

Scuff marks are actual damage, so treating them is a lot different to treating stains. We’ve picked out our 4 favourite ways to tackle scuff marks!

Methods to Remove Scuff Marks

1. The Tennis Ball Method

Tools Needed: A tennis ball
Steps:

  • Step 1: Take a standard tennis ball and cut a small X into one side of it.
  • Step 2: Place the tennis ball over the end of a broom or mop handle, using the X-cut to hold the ball securely.
  • Step 3: Rub the tennis ball over the scuff mark using gentle pressure. The texture of the tennis ball can lift the scuff mark without damaging the vinyl.

2. The Eraser Method

Tools Needed: A regular pencil eraser or a melamine foam eraser (Magic Eraser)
Steps:

  • Step 1: Gently rub the eraser over the scuff mark in a circular motion.
  • Step 2: Continue until the mark fades. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, which might dull the finish of the flooring.

3. Baking Soda Paste Method

Tools Needed: Baking soda, water
Steps:

  • Step 1: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste.
  • Step 2: Apply the paste directly to the scuff mark using a soft cloth.
  • Step 3: Gently rub the area in a circular motion until the scuff mark is removed.
  • Step 4: Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

4. WD-40 or Jojoba Oil Method

Tools Needed: WD-40 or jojoba oil, clean cloth
Steps:

  • Step 1: Spray a small amount of WD-40 or apply a few drops of jojoba oil onto a clean cloth.
  • Step 2: Gently rub the cloth over the scuff mark until it disappears.
  • Step 3: Clean the area with a damp cloth to remove any oily residue. This step is crucial to prevent slipping hazards.

Preventing Scuff Marks

Preventing Scuff marks is always better than repairing them. If it’s already too late and you have scuff marks you now know how to repair them, but think about preventing more going forward. Here’s how:

  1. Use Protective Pads: Attach felt pads under the legs of furniture to prevent scuffs when moving items.
  2. Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can cause abrasion and lead to scuff marks.
  3. No-Shoes Policy: Implement a no-shoes policy indoors to reduce the chances of scuff marks from footwear.
  4. Rugs and Mats: Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to protect the flooring.
 

In Conclusion

Removing scuff marks from vinyl flooring is relatively simple with the right tools and techniques. Whether using a tennis ball, eraser, baking soda, or WD-40, each method can effectively eliminate these marks and help maintain the floor’s appearance. Regular maintenance and preventive measures can further protect your vinyl flooring from damage, ensuring it remains a durable and attractive part of your home or workspace.

If you’ve got stubborn stains that chemicals just aren’t budging, why not give us a try and replace your flooring? At Easipay Flooring we offer Carpets, Laminate, Vinyl, SPC and LVT flooring at affordable prices and we even let you break down the cost into weekly, fortnightly or monthly payment plans too, completely interest free! Sound good? Tap the button below to get set up a home visit to see our samples and get your free quote!

Still Got Questions? Here's 10 FAQs!

It’s best to use a white rubber eraser as coloured erasers may leave dye stains. A melamine foam eraser is also a good choice for tougher scuff marks.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners, acetone, or any solvent-based products as they can damage the floor’s finish.

Sweep or vacuum daily, and mop once a week or more frequently in high-traffic areas to prevent dirt build-up that can lead to scuffs.

For very stubborn scuff marks, consider using a commercial vinyl floor cleaner formulated for tough stains, or consult a professional cleaning service.

Heavy furniture can indent or scuff vinyl flooring, especially if dragged. Always lift heavy items when moving them and use furniture sliders if necessary.

Black scuff marks from shoes are usually easier to remove using a pencil eraser or a melamine foam eraser. Gently rub the mark until it lifts. If these methods don’t work, try a small amount of WD-40 or jojoba oil on a cloth, followed by cleaning the area with soapy water to remove any slippery residue.

Vinegar is a safe and natural cleaning solution for vinyl flooring when diluted with water. It can help remove light stains and general dirt. Mix one cup of apple cider or white vinegar in a gallon of water and use it to mop the floor. Just ensure to rinse the floor with clean water afterward to prevent any build-up.

If a scuff mark has caused actual damage to the flooring (such as a gouge or deep scratch), the damaged area may need to be filled with a vinyl floor sealant or the affected tile or plank replaced entirely. Consult with a flooring specialist for the best repair options specific to your vinyl type.

Yes, floor wax specifically designed for vinyl flooring can be applied to enhance shine and add a protective layer against scuffs and stains. Make sure to choose a wax product suitable for vinyl and follow the manufacturer’s application instructions carefully.

Some manufacturers offer finish products or sealants that can be applied over vinyl flooring to increase its resistance to wear and tear, including scuffs. These products can be applied after installation or as part of a regular maintenance routine to extend the life of the flooring.