How to Remove a Dye Stain from Linoleum

Sarah asked, “Anyone know how to get a dye stain out of a lino/vinyl floor please? Help needed!”

Always test a cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first to look for any adverse reaction.

You Will Need:

• Mild soap
• Water
• Rubbing alcohol
• White vinegar
• A cloth
• Enzyme cleaner
• White shaving cream
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Baking soda
• Toothpaste
• A towel

Steps to Remove the Dye Stain:

1. It is possible that the stain can be removed simply by washing the area with a few drops of mild soap and water.¹ Use as little water as possible.²
2. If mild soap doesn’t remove the stain, try using either rubbing alcohol or a diluted vinegar solution of one part white vinegar in two parts water. Moisten a cloth with the solution and wipe the stain until it is gone. Turn the cloth to a fresh area as the stain is transferred to the cloth.
3. If the dye stain is from something organic, such as a fruit punch drink, a henna-based hair dye or pet vomit, you can try using an enzyme cleaner for hard floors, such as Nature’s Miracle Hard Floor Cleaner. Follow the instructions on the label of your selected cleaner.
4. If the dye stain is also a grease stain, such as from a medicine, crayon³ or lipstick, try using white foam shaving cream. Apply the foam to the floor, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then rinse the area clean.⁴
5. Another option is to try 3% hydrogen peroxide. Pour a little peroxide onto the stain and rub with a cloth until it is gone. Turn the cloth to a fresh area as the stain is transferred to the cloth.
6. Baking soda can also be effective for removing some dye stains. Mix it with a bit of water to make a paste and rub the stain with the paste on a cloth until it is gone.
7. If you have white non-gel toothpaste, you can try using that as well. Simply rub it onto the stain, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
8. Rinse the floor with water once it is clean to remove any residue from the cleaning solution.²
9. Immediately dry the area with a towel.²

• Mr. Clean Magic Erasers work well on dye stains, however they can cause discoloration of the floor. If you choose to use one, test it on a hidden area of the floor first to look for any adverse reaction.
• If none of the above cleaners have worked to remove the stain, you can try using acetone nail polish remover. However, use only a small amount and immediately stop using it if you see any discoloration of the floor.

1. Stain Removal by Stephanie Zia
2. How to Clean Practically Anything by Consumer Reports
3. Natural Stain Removal Secrets by Deborah L. Martin
4. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Green Cleaning by Mary Findley & Linda Formichelli