To clean rubberized flooring, use a mild detergent mixed with warm water, scrub gently with a soft mop, and rinse thoroughly to avoid residue buildup.
Rubberized flooring is a durable, low-maintenance option for gyms, playrooms, and high-traffic areas. Proper cleaning preserves its longevity and appearance. Here’s everything you need to know about maintaining rubber floors effectively.
Essential Tools for Cleaning Rubber Floors
Gather these items before starting:
- Microfiber mop or soft-bristle brush
- pH-neutral cleaner or mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Vacuum without beater bar (optional)
- Soft cloths for spot cleaning
For commercial spaces, consider an automatic floor scrubber with microfiber pads. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or oil-based cleaners that can degrade rubber over time.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Remove Loose Debris
Start by dry sweeping or vacuuming. Use a rubber floor-safe vacuum without rotating brushes to prevent scratches. This removes dirt, dust, and small particles that could scratch the surface during wet cleaning.
2. Pre-Treat Stubborn Stains
For tough stains:
- Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 gallon warm water
- Apply to stain and let sit 5 minutes
- Gently scrub with soft brush
Avoid metal scrapers or abrasive pads. For gum removal, freeze with ice cubes first to harden it before gently lifting off.
3. Deep Clean the Surface
Create a cleaning solution:
| Solution Type | Ingredients | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Cleaner | 1/4 cup mild soap + 1 gallon warm water | Regular maintenance |
| Disinfecting | 1 cup rubbing alcohol + 1 gallon water | High-traffic gyms |
Mop in sections, rinsing frequently. Change water when it appears dirty to avoid spreading grime.
Special Considerations
New Rubber Floor Odor
New rubber floors may emit a temporary odor from off-gassing. Speed up dissipation by:
- Increasing ventilation with fans
- Mopping daily for first week
- Using baking soda between cleanings
Seasonal Maintenance
Winter requires extra care:
- Increase cleaning frequency to remove salt and sand
- Use entryway mats (minimum 20 feet long)
- Consider commercial-grade walk-off systems for high-traffic areas
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Extend your floor’s lifespan with these practices:
- Place protective pads under heavy equipment
- Implement a no-street-shoes policy
- Clean spills immediately to prevent staining
- Rotate equipment periodically to prevent permanent indentations
For disinfecting needs, consider antibacterial sprays specifically formulated for rubber surfaces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wax or polish (rubber develops natural shine)
- Pressure washing (can force water under tiles)
- Oil-based cleaners (break down rubber compounds)
- Bleach (causes discoloration)
According to Mannington Commercial, proper maintenance can extend rubber flooring life by 5-10 years compared to neglected surfaces.
When to Call Professionals
Consider professional cleaning for:
- Large commercial spaces (5,000+ sq ft)
- Persistent odor issues
- Deep-set stains that resist home treatments
- Annual deep cleaning in high-traffic facilities