As a durable, sleek, and low-maintenance solution for residential and commercial spaces alike, epoxy flooring can last for years. But like any surface, it needs regular cleaning to look its best and stay in top shape. Whether you have epoxy in your garage, basement, or living space, understanding how to clean it properly will ensure it stands the test of time.
As an elite professional epoxy flooring team, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning epoxy floors—from choosing the right cleaner to simple maintenance tips. Let’s dive into the details so you can keep your flooring looking brand-new.
What Is the Best Cleaner for Epoxy Floors?
There’s lots of epoxy floor cleaners out on the market, but we don’t think you need to get fancy for your floors. One of the best cleaners for epoxy floors is a mild solution of dish soap and warm water. This mixture effectively removes dirt and grime without damaging the glossy finish. You can use about 1/3 cup of dish soap to a bucket of water for a large room or garage.
For tougher stains, a mixture of water and diluted ammonia (at a ratio of 1:3) works wonders – but make sure not to use too much ammonia, or you’ll damage your floor.
Microfiber mops or soft-bristle brushes are ideal tools for cleaning epoxy, as they prevent scratching. For commercial cleaners, opt for those labeled as safe for epoxy surfaces, ensuring they’re pH-neutral. Remember, maintaining your floor’s shine is as much about using the right tools as it is about picking the right cleaning products.
Some epoxy floor cleaners that you’ll want to steer clear of:
- Ammonia: While diluted ammonia can sometimes be used sparingly, concentrated ammonia is too harsh and can dull the epoxy’s glossy finish over time. Repeated use can degrade the surface, reducing its durability.
- Bleach: Bleach is highly corrosive and can weaken the epoxy coating. It may also cause discoloration, leaving unsightly patches on the otherwise sleek surface.
- Acetone: Acetone is a strong solvent that can break down the epoxy resin, leading to surface damage or clouding. It’s too aggressive for routine cleaning and should never be used.
- Vinegar (and other acidic cleaners): Acidic cleaners like vinegar can erode the epoxy’s top layer, compromising its shine and protective properties. Prolonged use can lead to pitting or etching in the surface.
- Citrus Cleaners: Despite their pleasant scent, citrus-based cleaners are acidic and can have the same damaging effects as vinegar. They can gradually degrade the epoxy’s finish and reduce its lifespan.
How to Clean Your Epoxy Flooring
When you’ve got your cleaner ready to go, let’s discuss how to actually clean your epoxy.
Sweep Up Dirt & Debris
Start by giving your floor a quick sweep— this will prevent any debris from getting in the way while you’re scrubbing up! Use a soft-bristle broom or a dust mop to remove loose dirt, sand, or debris that could scratch the epoxy during the cleaning process. Pay extra attention to corners and high-traffic areas.
Mix Your Cleaning Solution
Combine warm water with dish soap in a bucket. If you’re deep-cleaning a larger room or garage, about a third of a cup of dish soap should work – otherwise, measure with your heart.
If you’re dealing with heavy grime, you can add a splash of diluted ammonia for an extra cleaning boost. Stir gently to avoid creating too many bubbles.
Pour the Solution on Your Epoxy
Spread your cleaning solution evenly over the floor. A mop works well for distributing the mixture across large areas, while a sponge is handy for tighter spaces. This step ensures the cleaner can penetrate and lift dirt effectively.
Let It Sit
Once you’ve spread the solution on, take a quick snack break and let it do its job. Allow the solution to sit for about five minutes, giving it time to break down stubborn dirt or grease. Think of it as letting your floor “soak” in a spa treatment for maximum results.
Scrub Stubborn Stains
For spots that don’t come clean with just soaking, grab a soft-bristle brush and gently scrub the stain. A circular motion usually works best. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive pads, as they can scratch up your epoxy surface.
Rinse Off Your Epoxy Flooring
Finally, rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water to remove any soapy residue. Use a mop or a squeegee to remove streaks and provide an even finish. You can either air dry the floor or use a microfiber cloth to ensure no water spots are left behind.
When to Clean Your Epoxy Floors
For most spaces, epoxy flooring should be cleaned weekly or biweekly, depending on usage. High-traffic areas like garages or workshops might require more frequent attention. The key is to clean before dirt or stains build up, keeping the surface pristine and manageable.
Also: if you have any kind of chemical spill, act immediately! Don’t let chemicals sit on your epoxy: wipe them up as soon as possible, and use the mild dish soap and water combination to lightly scrub the area and ensure no harm comes to your flooring.
Maintaining Your Epoxy Flooring Over Time
Spot-Clean as Necessary
Don’t wait for your weekly cleaning to tackle spills or dirt! Spot-cleaning sticky messes or oily spots as they appear will help prevent long-term staining and damage.
Use Mats to Protect High-Traffic Areas
Placing mats near doorways or under heavy machinery can significantly reduce wear and tear on your epoxy flooring. Choose mats with non-slip backing to avoid accidents.
Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products
Steer clear of abrasive or highly acidic cleaners, as they can erode the epoxy’s protective finish. Stick to pH-neutral options or homemade solutions like diluted dish soap to preserve the floor’s shine.
Explore your epoxy options with Saulnier Epoxy
Epoxy flooring is a fantastic investment, and proper cleaning ensures it stays looking as good as new. By following these simple steps and maintenance tips, you’ll enjoy a floor that’s not just clean but also resilient and beautiful for years to come!
If you’re located in Massachusetts and are thinking about installing a new epoxy floor in your home or business, reach out to Saulnier Epoxy today! We are an elite flooring company that provides seamless solutions for residential, industrial and commercial floors. Contact us today and begin your epoxy journey.
