Author, Written by: Bledy (Installation Expert and Technical Writer)
Engineered wood and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) floors offer the beauty of real materials with added durability and comfort. But to keep them looking their best, regular cleaning is essential and choosing the right products matters. Many off the shelf cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can wear down finishes or harm indoor air quality over time.
If you are looking for a safe, sustainable way to maintain your floors, eco friendly cleaners are the way to go. In this guide, we highlight the best green cleaning options for engineered wood and LVT, including ready made products and DIY solutions.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaners?
Eco-friendly floor cleaners offer several benefits:
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Safer for pets, children, and allergy sufferers
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Non toxic and biodegradable, reducing environmental impact
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Low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), improving indoor air quality
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Gentle on flooring finishes, helping floors last longer
Using natural or plant based cleaners helps protect your investment while creating a healthier home.
Best Eco-Friendly Cleaners for Engineered Wood Floors
Engineered wood features a real hardwood surface, so it requires gentle, pH neutral cleaning to avoid damaging the top layer.
1. Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner
Bona is a widely trusted brand known for its water based, non toxic formula. It’s residue free and specifically designed for real wood surfaces, including engineered wood.
Best for: Regular mopping and spot cleaning
Available in: Spray bottles and refill packs
Bonus: GREENGUARD Gold certified for indoor air quality
2. Method Squirt + Mop Wood Floor Cleaner
This plant based cleaner is made with almond oil and leaves a subtle natural scent. It's safe for sealed engineered wood and doesn’t require rinsing.
Best for: Light daily cleaning
Available in: 739ml bottles
Fragrance: Almond
3. DIY Vinegar and Water Mix (with Caution)
Mix 1 part white vinegar with 10 parts water for a basic homemade cleaner. Add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or tea tree) for fragrance.
Note: Always test in a small area first. Vinegar is acidic and may not be suitable for all wood finishes. Avoid over wetting the floor.
Best Eco-Friendly Cleaners for LVT Flooring
LVT/Vinyl is more forgiving than wood but still benefits from gentle, non abrasive cleaners to preserve its surface layer.
1. Ecover Floor Cleaner
Ecover offers a plant based formula with a light fragrance, suitable for vinyl/LVT and laminate floors. It is biodegradable and cruelty free.
Best for: Regular mopping and general maintenance
Fragrance: Pine and mint
Available in: 1 litre bottles
2. Astonish Floor Cleaner Natural Range
This UK based brand offers vegan certified, cruelty free cleaning products. Their natural floor cleaner works on vinyl and leaves no sticky residue.
Best for: Budget friendly eco cleaning
Available in: Various natural scents like eucalyptus and lavender
3. DIY Mild Soap and Water
Mix a few drops of natural liquid soap (like castile soap) with warm water. Use a damp (not wet) mop to clean the surface.
Pro tip: Always follow with a dry microfiber mop to remove any excess moisture.
Cleaning Tools to Use with Eco Products
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Microfiber mops for gentle and effective dirt removal
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Soft bristle brushes for spot cleaning or grooves in wood grain
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Spray mops for easy application of eco friendly solutions
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Avoid abrasive sponges or steam mops on engineered wood
Tips for Daily Floor Maintenance
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Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove grit
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Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining or warping
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Use entrance mats to reduce dirt from outside
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Apply felt pads to furniture legs to prevent scratching
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Avoid oil based soaps or waxes unless recommended by the floor manufacturer
A Cleaner Home with a Lighter Footprint
You don’t need strong chemicals to keep your engineered wood or LVT/Vinyl floors spotless. Eco-friendly cleaners offer a safer, smarter way to maintain your floors without harming your home environment or the planet.
Whether you prefer trusted brands or simple DIY solutions, the key is consistency. Choose the right formula for your floor type, clean with care, and your floors will continue looking great for years to come.
For personalised product suggestions or eco-friendly floor care kits, explore our online store or speak with a flooring specialist today.
About Author:
Bledy is a flooring installation expert with over 15 years of experience. He writes easy to follow guides and tips to help homeowners and professionals with flooring projects.