The Best Way to Clean Cork Floors (Without Damaging Them)

Cork is delightfully soft, natural, and cozy - yet there’s a downside to all this, and that’s that it’s also a little more delicate than tile or vinyl. And as a conscientious homeowner, maybe you are - quite sensibly - thinking about how to clean your cork flooring while making sure that you don’t cause any damage.

If so, you’re in the right place: in this guide, we’ll explain the best way to clean cork floors, how to do long-term maintenance, and which products to use (or avoid) to keep them looking beautiful for a very long time.

Is cork flooring easy to clean?

Yes: generally speaking, cork is low-maintenance and easy to clean, especially if it’s sealed properly; however, because cork is a porous material, it’s important to be gentle and avoid excessive moisture.

Dry debris can scratch the surface over time, so regular sweeping or vacuuming is in order, while for deeper cleaning, a damp mop with a mild cleaner is all you need - harsh chemicals and soaking are neither required nor advisable.

Daily and weekly cork floor cleaning routine

Daily Cleaning

• Sweep or vacuum using a soft-bristled broom or vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment
• Avoid vacuums with beater bars, which can scratch the surface

Weekly Cleaning

• Mop using a well-wrung microfiber damp mop and a cork-safe cleaner or a solution of mild soap and water
• Never let water pool on the surface - moisture is cork’s biggest enemy

This routine will keep the surface clean and prevent dirt buildup from damaging the finish.

How to clean cork floors safely: step-by-step

Follow these simple steps:

1. Sweep or vacuum. This will remove dust and grit.

2. Prepare a mild cleaning solution. For this, use warm water and a pH-neutral floor cleaner or diluted dish soap.

3. Dampen (don’t soak) a microfiber mop in the solution, wringing it out thoroughly.

4. Mop gently in sections. Again, avoid too much water or harsh scrubbing.

5. Dry immediately with a soft towel, or, if it’s a well-ventilated room, allow it to air dry quickly.

What to clean cork floors with

The safest options include:

• A few drops of dish soap with warm water
• A commercial cork-safe or hardwood floor cleaner (pH-neutral)
• A vinegar and water solution (see below for natural methods)

To avoid:

• Ammonia or bleach
• Abrasive or acidic cleaners
• Wax- or oil-based products (unless specifically recommended)
• Too much water

Generally, if you're unsure exactly what to clean cork floors with, stick to gentle, non-toxic options that won’t strip the sealant or soak into the cork.

How to clean cork floors naturally

If you prefer something natural with ingredients that are easy to find, you can safely use diluted white vinegar:

• Mix ¼ cup of white vinegar and 1 litre of warm water
• Optionally, a few drops of essential oil (like lemon or lavender) add fragrance
• Mop with a microfiber mop that’s not too wet
• Dry immediately to prevent any damage

This method provides an approach to cleaning cork floors naturally, without chemicals and without danger to the environment.

Regardless of whether you’re dealing with floor tiles or full planks, the main precaution to know is not to let them get too wet and to use non-abrasive methods.

Can you steam clean cork floors?

No: steam cleaning is not recommended for cork floors, as while it might seem tempting as a quick and effective method, steam can force moisture into the cork and damage the sealant. Over time, this can lead to:

• Swelling or warping
• Cracks or separation
• Mould or mildew beneath the surface

Extra Tips

• Use mats or rugs to protect spots like entryways
• Apply felt pads under furniture legs to avoid dents or scratches
• Reapply sealant every few years to protect from moisture
• Clean up spills as soon as you can to prevent them from causing any damage
• Avoid harsh products and test any new cleaner on a sample or hidden area first

These habits will ensure that your floor lasts long and remains beautiful.

Conclusion

Cork floors are warm and elegant - and with the right routine, also easy to maintain. By following simple precautions like sticking to gentle cleaners, avoiding steam, and mopping sparingly and without too much water, you’ll keep your flooring perfect.

If you’re ready to explore your options, check out Portuguese Treasures' wide range of cork flooring designed to meet both your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.

*Images on this blog have been AI generated.