ALL THINGS FLOORING
Should You Steam Mop Vinyl Plank Floors?
Steam mops promise a deep, chemical-free clean — and for tile or sealed stone, they’re a dream. But when it comes to vinyl plank flooring, things get a little trickier. If you’ve ever wondered whether steam mopping is safe for vinyl planks, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down. What Are Vinyl Planks Made Of? Vinyl plank flooring, especially Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), is made from layers of synthetic materials, often including: A wear layer (to resist scratches) A vinyl core And sometimes a rigid composite base Most are designed to be water-resistant, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. The Steam Problem Steam mops use heat and moisture — the very things vinyl planks are sensitive to in excess. Here’s what can go wrong: Warping or buckling: Prolonged heat and moisture can cause planks to swell or change shape. Adhesive breakdown: If your floor is glued down, steam can break the bond. Voided warranties: Many manufacturers specifically state that steam mopping voids their warranty. When Is It Safe? In rare cases, fully waterproof vinyl planks (like rigid core or SPC) can handle light steam cleaning, but only under strict conditions: Low steam setting Constant motion (never let steam sit in one area) Dry pad follow-up to remove moisture Manufacturer approval If the planks are click-lock or floating, moisture can still seep into joints and cause damage over time. SHYN Recommendation We don’t recommend steam mopping vinyl planks. Instead, opt for: A microfibre Mop or flat mop Diluted pH-neutral cleaner (like SHYN Degreaser mixed 50/50 with water) This method keeps your floors clean, beautiful, and damage-free — with zero risk. What If a Client Asks for Steam? If you’re a cleaner and a customer insists on steam mopping, here’s what to do: Explain the risks clearly Ask for written permission Offer a safer method that gives just as good a result Your reputation matters — and so does their floor. Final Thoughts Steam cleaning has its place, but vinyl planks deserve a gentler touch. With the right cloth and cleaner, you’ll get an exceptional clean without risking damage. Want help finding the perfect products to care for vinyl floors? We’ve got you covered — SHYN makes it simple.
Learn moreWhy Stone Floors Need Special Care
Natural stone is formed deep in the earth and then cut into tiles. Each type has a different makeup — and most are porous, meaning they can absorb liquids, stain easily, or react to strong chemicals. Here’s a quick overview: Marble & Limestone – Soft and highly porous. Sensitive to acid and can easily etch. Travertine – A softer form of limestone, equally sensitive. Granite – Stronger but still needs sealing. Can stain without protection. Slate – More durable but has layers that can lift if not cared for properly. Many floors are sealed to protect them, but the wrong cleaner can break down that seal over time. What to Avoid Acidic cleaners (like vinegar or citrus) Bleach or ammonia Boiling water (can shock and crack the stone) Antibacterial products (like mould removers) Soaking or flooding the floor with water Strong degreasers directly on stone What You Can Use (Stone-Safe Options) You’ve got two safe paths: 🔹 Option 1: SHYN Positive Chi Disinfectant – Alcohol-free, pH neutral, and completely safe for natural stone– Septic safe– Leaves a fresh, gentle scent– Add it to warm mop water for everyday cleans 🔹 Option 2: Any pH-neutral stone floor cleaner – Look for one designed for marble, limestone, or granite– Make sure it says "safe for natural stone" and contains no acids or antibacterials What About SHYN Degreaser? Yes, you can use it — but only diluted: 👉 Add 6 sprays of SHYN Degreaser into a 12L bucket of warm water.This mild dilution helps break down grime safely, but it should never be poured directly onto stone. Tools to Use SHYN Microfibre Mop or Wall & Floor Tool – Safe for delicate surfaces, easy to use Vacuum or dry mop – Always remove debris first Step-by-Step: SHYN Stone Floor Cleaning Routine Vacuum or dust first – This prevents grit from scratching the surface. Fill your mop bucket with warm water + either:– A splash of SHYN Positive Chi– Or 6 sprays of SHYN Degreaser (for deeper cleans) Mop gently, rinsing out the water as much as possible, to avoid streaks. Rinse mop often, especially if the floor is greasy. 💡 Final Thoughts Natural stone is an investment — and with the right care, it’ll last a lifetime. Using the wrong products can lead to damage that’s expensive (or impossible) to reverse. Whether you're cleaning floors, benchtops, or splashbacks, always use pH-neutral, non-acidic, non-abrasive products — and clean with love, the SHYN way.
Learn moreWhy You Should Always Dust or Vacuum Before You Mop (Not After)
It might feel natural to mop first and then do a quick vacuum for anything left behind — but when it comes to stone floors and detailed cleaning, that’s the wrong order. Here’s why: 1. Dry debris becomes mud when wet If you mop before removing dust, sand, pet hair, or grit: You’re turning that debris into sludge, smearing it across the surface Fine grit gets pushed into grout lines or small crevices You end up with streaks, residue, or cloudy patches Stone surfaces — especially honed, matte, or textured ones — grab onto that grime and make your job harder.
Learn moreWhy You Shouldn’t Use Boiling Water on Natural Stone Floors
Boiling water might seem like the ultimate cleaning shortcut — it’s hot, it steams, it dissolves grease — but it’s not safe for stone. Here’s why 1. Thermal Shock Can Crack or Damage the Stone Natural stone (especially marble, granite, limestone, and travertine) is porous and sensitive to temperature changes. Pouring or mopping with boiling water can create a sudden temperature shock, which may cause: Cracks Splits Surface flaking Loosening of sealant or grout Especially in colder climates or cooler rooms (like bathrooms), this rapid heat change is risky. 2. Boiling Water Can Break Down Sealants Most natural stone floors are sealed to protect them from moisture and stains. High heat can melt, weaken, or lift that sealant, leaving the stone unprotected and more likely to stain or absorb dirt. What to Use Instead: Warm (not hot) water SHYN Positive Chi Disinfectant in your mop bucket 6 sprays of undiluted SHYN Degreaser in your mop bucket Microfibre Mop or Wall & Floor Tool for safe, even application The SHYN Rule: If you wouldn’t touch it with your bare hand, don’t put it on your stone.
Learn moreVinyl Floor Stains
When it comes to vinyl flooring, especially if the protective seal has worn away, it's important to know that dirt can usually be removed — but most stains can’t. Once something penetrates the surface, it often acts like a dye and becomes permanent. Here’s what we recommend trying: Use the SHYN Degreaser undiluted – spray directly onto the affected area. Scrub gently with a SHYN Magic Eraser to lift any dirt or residue. If the stain remains, spot treat with the SHYN Paste, using gentle circular motions. Please note: this may slightly lighten the surface, as the paste breaks into the vinyl to reach what’s underneath. This process gives you the best chance at removing anything that's still on or close to the surface — but if it doesn’t budge, it’s likely that the stain has permanently penetrated the vinyl. Product Links:🔗 SHYN Degreaser: https://shop.shyn.com.au/products/shyn-degreaser🔗 SHYN Magic Eraser: https://shop.shyn.com.au/products/shyn-magic-eraser🔗 SHYN Paste: https://shop.shyn.com.au/products/shyn-paste
Learn moreWhy Is Grout So Hard to Clean?
If you've ever scrubbed your heart out and still felt like your grout lines are mocking you, you're not alone. Grout might seem like a minor detail, but when it's dirty, it can make an entire space feel grimy—even if everything else is spotless. So why is grout so stubborn to clean? Let’s break it down. 🧱 1. Grout Is Extremely Porous Grout is like a sponge in disguise. It's made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, which means it has tiny holes all over its surface. These holes: Absorb spills Trap dirt and grime Hold onto oils, soap scum, and mop water residue Over time, even cleaning products can soak into grout and leave behind buildup if not rinsed properly. So when you see grout that's discoloured or dull, it's usually because the grime has sunk beneath the surface. 2. It’s Sensitive to the Wrong Cleaners Many store-bought floor or tile cleaners aren’t grout-friendly. Harsh chemicals, acidic solutions, and bleach-based products can: Damage the surface of grout Cause it to deteriorate or pit “Set” the dirt deeper instead of lifting it Plus, when cleaners aren’t rinsed off thoroughly, they leave behind residues that act like magnets for more grime. 3. Mopping Makes It Worse (If Done Wrong) Here’s a surprising truth: regular mopping can actually dirty your grout even more. Why? Because most people mop with one bucket, dipping a dirty mop back into the water again and again. This creates a layer of grimy water that gets pushed right into the grout lines. Over time, it builds up and darkens your grout. 4. Standard Cleaning Methods Aren’t Enough Grout needs more than just surface cleaning. Because the dirt is deep in the pores, wiping or spraying on cleaner won’t cut it. That’s why you might find yourself: Scrubbing endlessly with little result Reaching for an aggressive paste or heavy-duty scrub Wondering why it still doesn’t look new And here's the kicker: once it’s deeply embedded, the only thing that works is abrasive action plus chemical breakdown—a combo of the right product and elbow grease. 5. Most Grout Was Never Sealed Properly Grout should be sealed after installation and resealed every 12–18 months, especially in wet or high-traffic areas. But many builders skip this step—or use low-quality sealers that wear off quickly. Unsealed grout is an open invitation for dirt, mold, and mildew. And once it’s in… good luck getting it out. So, What’s the Solution? Here’s how to bring your grout back to life: Use a high-performance degreaser to break down grime and oil. Scrub with the right tools—like an agitator pad, grout brush, or magic eraser for precision. Use an abrasive paste (like SHYN Paste) on stubborn areas to pull grime from the pores. Rinse thoroughly with clean water (ideally with a wet vacuum or microfiber cloth). Seal the grout once it’s dry to prevent future staining. Final Thoughts Grout might be small, but it’s mighty—mighty frustrating, that is. But with the right knowledge, products, and tools, you can restore it to its original colour and keep it that way long-term. Because nothing says clean like fresh, bright grout lines. ✨
Learn moreHow to Clean Carpets with SHYN Degreaser
SHYN Degreaser is highly effective at lifting grime, stains, and buildup from carpets. Whether you're spot-cleaning or using a carpet machine, here’s how to get the best results.Always patch test a small hidden area first—especially on natural fibres like wool—to ensure the carpet reacts well. ✅ Option 1: Spot Cleaning with a Steam Cleaner Dilute SHYN Degreaser 50/50 with water (never use it undiluted). Spray directly onto the stained or dirty area. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes to break down grime. Steam clean over the top to lift both dirt and product in one go. ✅ Option 2: Cleaning with a Carpet Machine Mix approx. 200ml SHYN Degreaser per 1L of boiling water (or scale up—e.g. 500ml to 2.5L). Add the mix to your machine’s chemical tank. Clean as usual, allowing the solution to dissolve grime as the machine extracts it. Rinse the carpet by going over it again with clean water only to remove all residue and protect the fibres. 💪 For Heavily Soiled Areas Before machine cleaning, spray a 50/50 diluted mix of SHYN Degreaser directly onto the problem areas. Let it sit for 2–5 minutes to break down heavy buildup, then steam clean or extract. This gives you a deep clean where it's needed most. ⚠️ Fabrics to Be Cautious With Avoid spraying SHYN Degreaser directly onto: Wool or wool blends – These natural fibres can shrink or discolour. Use via machine or cloth only. Velvet, suede, or suede-like fabrics – These mark easily. Blot gently with a damp cloth instead of spraying. 🧼 Pro Tip: Let carpets fully dry before walking on them to prevent dirt transfer or marks.
Learn moreSHYN Degreaser vs Cream on Carpets
If a cream like Sudocrem or any thick, oily product ends up on your carpet, SHYN Degreaser is the best way to break it down and lift it out. These creams are packed with oils and waxes that stick to carpet fibres. SHYN Degreaser is designed to cut through greasy, fatty build-up effectively. 👉 Here’s what to do: Gently scoop off any excess cream (avoid rubbing it in). Spray SHYN Degreaser directly onto the affected area — use it neat or diluted 50/50. Let it sit for 30–60 seconds. Use a damp SHYN Ultimate Microfibre Cloth to gently blot and agitate the area. The cloth must be damp, not dry — this helps lift the loosened residue instead of just smearing it. Repeat as needed, then rinse lightly with water and blot dry using a clean section of the cloth. ⚠️ If the cream has discoloured the carpet or seeped deep into the fibres, it may not come out completely — but this is the most effective, non-damaging method to try.
Learn moreChoosing the Right Carpet Cleaning Machine
A Quick Guide from a Professional Cleaner If you're shopping for a carpet cleaning unit, here's what you need to know before you buy especially if you're dealing with heavily soiled or end-of-lease carpets. 1. Power Matters The stronger the machine, the less time and effort it takes to get results. Entry-Level Machines (e.g., Bunnings models, $600–$1,500):Affordable but often underpowered. You may need to go over the same patch 20–30 times to lift heavy dirt. Great for light maintenance or small areas, but time-consuming for big jobs. Mid-to-High-End Portables ($2,000–$5,000+):These machines offer better suction and water pressure. They flood the carpet effectively and extract dirt in just a few passes. Ideal for regular deep cleaning and charging more per job. Truck-Mounted Systems (for professional-level setups):The gold standard—extremely fast, but not portable, and not ideal for multi-level properties or apartments. ♂️ 2. Think About Portability Before you buy, ask yourself: Will I be cleaning upstairs, in apartments, or tight access properties? Can I lift and transport the machine easily between jobs? Do I need it to fit into a car or van? Pro tip: Bigger isn’t always better if you can’t move it efficiently between jobs. 3. Don’t Forget Pre-Treatment! No matter the machine, the results often come down to your prep.I always recommend using a powerful pre-spray like SHYN Degreaser to break down grime before extraction. It saves time, reduces effort, and gets better results—especially for high-traffic areas. 4. More Power = More Profit A better machine can help you: Finish jobs faster Achieve better results Take on more clients Charge more confidently for professional-level cleans So while the upfront cost might seem high, the return on investment is worth it if you plan to clean regularly or professionally.
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