When it comes to floor cleaning, many people turn to methylated spirits, believing it's an effective and budget-friendly solution. However, using it on timber, vinyl, or laminate flooring can do more harm than good. Here’s why you should reconsider and what to use instead.
1. It Can Strip Protective Coatings
Most modern flooring—especially sealed timber, engineered wood, and vinyl—has a protective coating that enhances durability and appearance. Since methylated spirits is a strong solvent, it can break down these coatings over time. This leaves the floor more susceptible to staining, water damage, and a dull, worn-out look.
2. It Can Cause Drying and Cracking
Methylated spirits evaporates rapidly, which might seem convenient, but it can also dry out timber flooring. This increases the risk of cracks, warping, and shrinkage—especially in Australia’s fluctuating climate, where temperature and humidity changes already affect wooden surfaces.
3. It Can Leave Streaks and a Cloudy Residue
Despite being touted as a powerful cleaner, methylated spirits can leave unsightly streaks and a cloudy film on vinyl and laminate flooring. Since it evaporates too quickly, it doesn’t allow for even distribution, often resulting in an inconsistent finish that makes floors look dull and dirty.
4. Potential Health and Safety Risks
Methylated spirits is a flammable liquid that emits strong fumes. In enclosed spaces, these fumes can cause dizziness, headaches, and respiratory irritation—posing risks to children, pets, and individuals with asthma or sensitivities to strong chemicals.
5. Not Recommended by Flooring Manufacturers
Most Australian flooring manufacturers explicitly advise against using methylated spirits on timber, hybrid, vinyl, or laminate floors. In fact, using it may void your flooring warranty, as it can degrade adhesives and compromise the integrity of the material over time.
What to Use Instead?
For safe and effective floor cleaning, opt for products designed specifically for your flooring type. Here are some top recommendations:
✅ Banyar Jagun Floor Cleaner – Safe for timber, vinyl, and tile floors.
✅ Edco Microfibre Round Mop Blue – Ideal for general floor maintenance.
✅ Enzyme Wizard No Rinse Floor Cleaner – Provides streak-free cleaning, best for tiles (not recommended for timber).
If you’re cleaning a commercial space, opt for manufacturer-recommended products that maintain the flooring’s integrity.
Would you like recommendations for specific cleaning products available in Australia? Let us know, and we’ll be happy to help!