At the other extreme were products like the misnamed Congoleum Designer Carefree, which needed multiple polish applications to restore its gloss, and the Armstrong Vernay, which retained embedded dirt even after repeated mopping with a heavy-duty cleaner. We also looked at what would happen if common household spills escaped detection for a couple of days. Using new samples of flooring for each test, we let 19 different substances sit for 48 hours before attempting to clean them up. Chlorine bleach, coffee, driveway filler, ink, ketchup, mustard, nail-polish remover, red wine, and shoe polish proved particularly tenacious. Before using a household cleaner like Spic and Span on vinyl flooring, check with the flooring retailer or read the care instructions.
Many manufacturers claim that store-bought cleaners can dull the finish.
Manufacturers' proprietary cleaners may cost a few dollars more and be hard to find, but you don't have to use much, so they should last for a while. Most models didn't fade or discolor when exposed to intense UV light. The Congoleum Majestic , Armstrong Solarian Elegant Images, and Armstrong Vernay were exceptions and shouldn't be used in a sun-drenched room unless you plan to keep the blinds drawn. If you decide to go with vinyl flooring, choose a pattern you like within one of the high-rated lines. Just remember to go by the brand and line name and not just by the brand.