| Removing Stains from Floors - Hard Surface Flooring Information |
These procedures may help remove stains on hard- surface floors, but cannot guarantee complete removal. Burns, holes, or "permanent" stains may require a replacement "patch" of that section of the floor.
Cautions: When working with any chemicals, carefully read and follow the label directions for using that chemical, especially any cautions on safe use! With solvents, be very careful to have ventilation, and no flame or spark in area!
The first time you use any procedure on any floor, test it first on an out-of-the-way part of the floor to be sure it does not damage the flooring or finish.
Notes: If steel wool is suggested, use fine grade, 000 grade.
Scouring powder will help remove many stains, but can also permanently scratch the floor. If you decide to use it, use only a mild type, and be very careful about rubbing too much.
Concentrated liquid commercial household cleaners, rubbed onto a stubborn spot, may remove it as well as scouring powders without the danger of scratching. Rinse off well. Do not use on wood floors.
Do not use water solutions, or cleaners which have to be rinsed off with water, on wood floors. Use a solvent or solvent-based cleaning wax.
After removing a stain, rinse the area thoroughly, dry completely, and, if floor finish has been removed in that area, recoat with appropriate finish or wax.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus, with references from the Georgia Extension bulletin Buying and Caring for Smooth Surface Flooring: Masonry.
MSU 2003
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