How do I strip the dirt off of a very dirty linoleum floor?

Answer 1

Couple ideas.

1. Is it just dirt, or is it buildup from floorwax? It's not uncommon for folks to use floorwax on floors.

2. It may be oils from barefeet - particularly if the dirt is embedded in any texturing on the floor.

I tried a number of cleaners, including a floor-stripping compound. In the end? I found that plain-old Windex worked best. I would spray a section, let it sit for a minute, and then mop with a good sponge mop.

I also recommend Hoover Floormate. We bought one in 2003 after I got tired of mopping and we love it. The solution is good at removing oily building up on the floor, and it gets almost everything up. If you have something really stubborn, I still use my big toe, or reach down with a fingernail. (In our house - our kids seem to leave a trail of peppermint shards when they bite into a candy cane and it breaks. If I could build a house out of peppermint - it would replace brick!)

Answer 2

I've had to deal with that. If the floors get that dirty (especially in the corners), I will use a bucket of Lysol, a couple of good cleaning rags, a scrubbing brush, and an old toothbrush to get into some of the smaller places. It's tiring, but it works!

Answer 3

I think ammonia works really well, but be sure to dilute it and open a window or door. It can make you sick.
I have also used orange clean which used to work really well but I have not been as pleased with it recently.
The ammonia is also good if there is a wax or acrylic build up on your floor, but the best thing is it is so inexpensive.

Answer 4

with a mop, water, cleaning solution, and a gallon of elbow grease.