Cleaning old vinyl flooring?

Awhile back I asked what works best for cleaning really old vinyl flooring, and a few people said baby shampoo works really well. My question now is, how do I apply it? Do I mix it in a bucket of water or put it straight onto the floor? Should I let it sit or scrub it right away? Should I use a scrub brush or a cloth? Thanks!! :) I should probably also mention that this house is over 50 years old, so it is very possible that the flooring is the same age...

Public Comments

1. Most of the time you would add to a bucket of water (small amount). You can also use water and vinegar - the vinegar cuts oils, etc.. that get on the floor. If your floor has a pattern (low spots), you will need to use a scrub brush. I moved into a place and thought the floor was one color, but when I used the scrub brush I found out that the floor had different colored lines. Good Luck!
2. I've used the Armstrong vinyl floor stripper and cleaner and then use their restorer. The floor looks new. I've had my floor for 8 years and it looks brand new. You can find this stuff at your chain home improvement store. I used the stripper undiluted and scrub brush ( the old fashioned way) Just rinse with clean water then apply the restorer with a sponge mop.
3. If it's really bad and discusting you'll want two buckets of water and a scrub-brush. Put you knee pads on and squirt the shampoo on the floor, dip brush in water and work it in in circular motion, adding soap and more water as you go ,rinse with a damp cloth rinsed in the clean bucket.
4. for black marks or stubborn stains apply a little margarine or butter to the mark and rub briskly with a cloth to remove.
5. It is going to take alot of elbow grease and a bit of time but...Mr.Clean Magic sponge will do the trick!
6. well, if the flooring is prob. 50 plus years old it will have asbestosis in it.. good idea to replace it ASAP... I have also seen where a pattern can be painted over it and looks nice.