The feeling that a just-mopped floor provides is a relief in all senses. So, it’s a real bummer to realize it ends up all sticky when you thought you were done. Wondering what went wrong? Let’s dive into why your freshly cleaned floor is sticky and how to fix this annoying issue.
Why do floors end up sticky after mopping?
A couple of things can cause this annoying problem. Check out these two common culprits:
- Using the wrong cleaning products: When you mop with a detergent or cleaner not suitable for your floor type, it can leave behind a residue that attracts dirt and grime.
- Too much cleaning solution: Making the wrong call results in excess moisture on the floor, and when it dries, it becomes sticky.
Knowing why your floors end up sticky will help you prevent it in the future. However, it won’t clean your floors. So, here’s how to get those floors back to their non-sticky glory.
Option #1. Warm water
So, sticky floors basically result from residue that’s left after mopping. More often than not, you can wash it away with plain water. Grab a clean mop, wipe down your floor with warm water, and watch that residue or excess cleaner vanish. Your floors will be shining again in no time.
Note: If you catch a sticky spot, acting quickly can save you from having to go through a major cleaning ordeal.
Option #2. Use the right cleaning solution
If warm water isn’t cutting it, don’t sweat it. Fill up a bucket, toss in the right cleaning solution (or amount)—check the label, please!—and get to work. Mop or use a microfiber cloth on those sticky areas.
Pro-tip: If you’re doing the whole floor, watch out for a dirty mix. Change dirty water as many times as needed.
Option #3. White vinegar
Harnessing the acidic prowess of white vinegar can effectively dismantle stickiness, offering a natural and eco-friendly alternative. Just combine equal parts vinegar and water, then use a cleaning rag or mop to tackle the surface.
Similar to the previous approach, be proactive about changing the water if it starts looking murky. And, of course, don’t skip the rinse with plain water to ward off any potential damage.
Option #4. Baking Soda
If vinegar isn’t doing the trick, but you want to stay in the eco-friendly line, resort to baking soda. Mix one cup of baking soda in two gallons of warm water, and let a mop take care of those sticky spots or the entire floor.
But wait, there’s more! Give the mixture a few minutes to work its magic and break down any lingering stickiness. Remember to rinse with plain water, just like the other options.
Option #5. Give ammonia a chance
If you need a stronger companion to tackle the stickiness, consider using ammonia. There’s a catch, though; due to its acidity, it’s better to use ammonia only on tile and ceramic floors—it’ll damage wooden, stone, and linoleum floors, for example.
If your floor is cool with it, mix half a cup of ammonia with a gallon of water, mop away the stickiness, and rinse it down with plain water promptly to avoid any unwanted results.
Maids In Pink will leave your floors in pristine condition!
Time constraints may not allow you to maintain your floors as you’d like it. If you want to leave behind the stress of cleaning them (and dealing with sticky problems), call Maids In Pink! Our expert cleaning team will treat your floors and leave them shining without sticky results.