Author, Written by: Bledy (Installation Expert and Technical Writer)
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) has become a favourite choice for many UK homes thanks to its durability, water resistance, and realistic wood or stone effect designs. But even the toughest flooring can face the occasional mishap, especially when tea or coffee is involved. Spills happen whether it is a morning cuppa knocked over by accident or a coffee mug mishap during a work from home rush.
The good news? LVT/Vinyl is far easier to clean than natural wood or porous stone, and with the right approach, you can quickly deal with tea and coffee stains before they leave a lasting mark.
Step 1: Act Quickly
When it comes to liquid spills, speed is your best friend. Tea and coffee contain tannins, which can leave behind brownish stains if left too long. As soon as you notice the spill, grab a soft cloth or kitchen roll and blot up as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the liquid and push it into the floor’s texture.
Step 2: Use Warm Soapy Water
For most fresh spills, warm soapy water is all you need.
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Mix a few drops of mild washing up liquid with warm water.
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Dampen a clean cloth or sponge in the solution and gently wipe the stained area.
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Rinse the cloth in clean water and go over the area again to remove any soapy residue.
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Dry thoroughly with a soft towel.
This is usually enough for stains that haven’t had time to set in.
Step 3: Try a Vinegar Solution for Stubborn Marks
If the spill has dried or you notice a faint stain, white vinegar can help break down the tannins.
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Mix one part white vinegar with four parts warm water.
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Lightly dampen a cloth in the solution and gently rub the area in a circular motion.
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Wipe again with a clean damp cloth to remove any vinegar smell or residue.
Vinegar is safe for LVT as long as it’s diluted and not left to soak for too long.
Step 4: Use a Specialist LVT Cleaner
For older stains that don’t respond to basic cleaning, a purpose made LVT cleaner can help. These products are designed to lift stubborn marks without damaging the wear layer of your floor. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions usually, it’s a matter of applying, waiting briefly, and wiping clean.
Step 5: Avoid Harsh Chemicals
It can be tempting to reach for bleach or abrasive cleaners when a stain is being stubborn, but this can do more harm than good. Strong chemicals can strip away the protective coating of LVT, leaving it more vulnerable to future stains. The same goes for abrasive scrubbing pads, which can cause micro scratches.
Step 6: Prevent Future Stains
While LVT is stain resistant, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple ways to reduce the risk of tea or coffee marks:
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Use coasters under mugs, especially on desks or side tables near the floor.
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Place a washable rug or mat in high risk spill zones, like under a coffee table.
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Wipe up any spill immediately, even if you think it is only a few drops.
Extra Tip: Check Your Warranty Guidelines
If you are unsure about using certain cleaning solutions, check the care guidelines from your LVT manufacturer. Some warranties can be affected if harsh chemicals are used, so sticking to approved products is always the safest option.
Final Word
Tea and coffee spills may be part of daily life, but they don’t have to leave a lasting reminder on your floor. By acting quickly, using gentle cleaners, and knowing when to bring out specialist products, you can keep your LVT looking as fresh and flawless as the day it was installed.
A quick clean now not only saves you from unsightly stains but also helps your floor maintain its long term beauty. So next time there is a morning mishap, you’ll know exactly what to do and your LVT will thank you for it.
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.