How to Remove Yellow Stains on Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is made from raw materials, including linseed oil. When this oil is blocked from the sunlight it begins to oxidize and can change colors. The continual covering of floor mats and rugs can hasten this process. In many cases, it is possible to remove these stains with a few simple steps. Here are two different methods to use.

You Will Need:

• Sunlight

Steps to Remove the Yellow Stains:

1. Since the lack of light is what causes the problem, the easiest way to remove them is to introduce light to the area.
2. Remove the rugs and allow the yellowed areas some time in the sunlight/daylight.
3. The length of exposure time will depend largely on how long the areas have been covered and how yellowed the areas have become.
4. Once the yellowed areas have reached the same coloring as the rest of the floor, continue to remove the rugs periodically to allow light to the covered areas.

You Will Need:

• Baking soda
• Water
• Soft cloth

Steps to Remove the Yellow Stains:

1. Begin by removing the rugs and sweeping away any dirt from the area.
2. Next, wet the entire area with plain water.
3. Sprinkle baking soda over the yellowed area and allow it to set for at least 10-15 minutes.
4. Use a soft cloth to wipe the baking soda away.
5. It may take several applications to remove the yellow areas if they are deeply discolored.
6. Once the stain is gone, continue to clean the area with baking soda during weekly cleanings to keep the yellow stains from returning.

• Though many still call it linoleum, modern “linoleum” is actually vinyl flooring. The preservative materials that keep the rubber backing on the floor mats from becoming dry and brittle can also cause a chemical reaction with the vinyl, leaving yellowed or discolored areas on the floor. Depending on the severity, the methods above may help, but often the stains caused from this reaction are impossible to reverse.
• To prevent stains from occurring, check the labels on the any floor rugs to ensure that they are non-staining to vinyl floors.

Related:

• How to Remove Oil Stains from Synthetic Flooring
• How to Remove Rubber from Slate Flooring
• How to Remove Stains in the Microwave
• How to Remove Wood Stain from Vinyl Flooring
• How to Remove Yellow Discoloration from Clear Plastic Headlights
• How to Whiten Yellowed Vinyl