What is the best way to remove wax buildup from a vinyl or linoleum floor? -Priscilla

Hi Priscilla,

Diluted household ammonia works great for removing wax buildup, as well as dirt and grime, on vinyl or linoleum floors. Mix from 1/2 to 2 cups of ammonia to one gallon of warm water. Have plenty of ventilation, and test it first on a small, out of the way spot to be sure the ammonia won’t damage the floor.

Apply the ammonia to the floor with a sponge mop and allow it to work for a couple of minutes. Scrub the floor to remove the softened layers of wax, then rinse with clean water.

Also, NEVER under any circumstances mix ammonia with bleach or any cleaning product that contains bleach, as the combination of bleach and ammonia can produce poisonous chlorine gas.

Good luck with your project,

Further Information

• How to Clean a Ceramic Tile Floor (article)
• How to Spot Clean Carpet in Your Home (video)
• How to Clean Your Home Using Common Household Products (video)
• How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances (article)

Tags: , clean, cleaners, cleaning, floor, Flooring, vinyl

2 Comments on “How to Remove Wax Buildup from Vinyl or Linoleum Floors”

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1. danny caudill Says:
   November 16th, 2011 at 1:36 pm

   how?do you get the dull look off of outside vinyl.thank you

2. Ms. Felice Says:
   February 5th, 2012 at 11:13 am

   Dear Danny,

   My house was built in the 1980’s and is very drafty in the winter, needless, to say I lose a lot of energy and money during the winter months as a result.
   Can you please help me fix the drafty areas in my home if I list them below?

   Thank you very much
   Ms.Felice
   Raleigh, NC

   The floors that aren’t carpeted are very cold: (I don’t think they’re insulated properly.)

   Air ducts: (I don’t use my central heating unit because it makes my electric bills are so high, I tape the ducts up instead.)

   Fireplace (I keep it taped up during the winter because there’s a draft that escapes down the chimney in the house.)

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