How Remove Oil From a Slippery Floor

Step 01

Combine 1 teaspoon of washing soda with 1 gallon of warm water in a mop bucket.

Step 11

Mop the floor with the soda water. Rinse and wring the mop regularly to remove the oil particles from the mop head. Some foaming may occur when the washing soda comes in contact with the oil.

Step 21

Empty the mop bucket and refill it with 1 gallon of fresh, warm water. Mix 1 cup of white vinegar into the mop water.

Step 31

Mop the floor with the vinegar water, rinsing and wringing the mop as necessary. The vinegar breaks down and removes any remaining oil or washing soda residue.

Step 41

Wipe the floor dry with a clean towel. Check for any remaining oily or slippery spots. Mop these spots a second time with the soda and vinegar.

References

• Michigan State University Extension: Homemade Cleaners
• Purdue University: Preventing Slips and Falls - Floor Cleaning and Maintenance

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Tips

Washing soda and vinegar are suitable for linoleum, tile and wood flooring. Dry the floors immediately so water doesn't remain on the surface. Standing water can warp wood and linoleum floors.

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Warnings

Do not use alkaline cleaners or rubber tiles. Only use mild detergents formulated for cleaning these surfaces.

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Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

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