Linoleum is a natural material made from linseed oil, pine resin, wood flour, and other renewable ingredients. It has a soft, matte surface with a warm, tactile feel—perfect for everyday use. With the right care, linoleum ages beautifully and develops its own quiet character over time.
Daily cleaning
For everyday maintenance, simply wipe the surface with a soft cloth or sponge, using warm water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent. Avoid excess water and always dry the surface afterward to preserve its appearance and prevent moisture from seeping into the edges or seams.
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive pads, or alkaline cleaners, which can dull or damage the surface.
Ongoing maintenance
Linoleum benefits from gentle, regular care. Depending on use, you can refresh the surface a few times a year with a linoleum polish or natural wax to maintain its subtle sheen and protect it from wear.
We recommend two methods for deeper cleaning:
Deep cleaning with pH-neutral detergent- Mix a 5% solution of a pH-neutral detergent with water.
- Apply the solution evenly over the surface and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush to lift dirt and residue.
- Wipe off the solution, rinse with clean water, and let the surface dry.
- Apply a thin maintenance film of undiluted Forbo Monel Linoleum Care.
- Buff the surface vigorously with a clean, dry cotton cloth to restore the finish.
Seasonal cleaning with Guardian Linoleum Soap:
- 3–4 times a year, we recommend a deep clean using Guardian Linoleum Soap - formulated specifically to clean and protect linoleum as a natural material.
- Apply the soap evenly across the entire surface using a soft, lint-free cloth. Let it soak for 5 minutes.
- Clean using circular motions with a cloth dampened in clean water to create a light foam.
- Rinse with another clean cloth wrung in fresh water and allow the surface to dry completely. Note: It’s important to treat the entire surface rather than spot-treating, to maintain an even finish.
Preventive care
Linoleum is durable, but care helps it stay beautiful. Always use cutting boards for food prep - sharp blades can leave permanent marks. Hot pots, pans, or trays should go on trivets to avoid heat damage, as linoleum is sensitive to high temperatures.
Wipe up spills quickly, especially from acidic or strongly pigmented substances like wine, coffee, vinegar, and citrus. These can stain or degrade the surface if left too long.
Avoid dragging heavy items, and avoid metal scrapers or tools to remove stubborn substances like dried paint or candle wax to avoid scratches.
Don’t let water sit on the surface - particularly near seams or edges. Keep the countertop clean and dry, and don’t cover it with foil, plastic, or other moisture-trapping materials for long periods.
If damage occurs
Minor scuffs may be reduced with buffing or a linoleum care product. For deeper damage or worn areas, we recommend consulting your local supplier or a linoleum care expert. We're also happy to help - feel free to reach out if you need guidance.
With the right balance of daily habits and seasonal care, linoleum remains a quietly elegant surface - natural, functional, and made to last.