You may think that when your cork coaster or placemat gets a stain it’s time to throw it out. Not true! Cork items can be cleaned very easily. Read our tips on how to get clean cork.

Light Cleaning

You may not have to deep clean cork for it to look presentable again. Just use a sponge or rag and a solution of basic soapy water to gently scrub the cork. If the cork isn’t that dirty, that’s all you need!

How to Remove Stains

Wash the cork first and see if that does the trick. If not, sandpaper is your friend. Gently sand the stained area. Blow the dust away and check periodically on how your stain is looking. Sand until the stain or mark is removed. Rinse the cork with water and dry with a clean cloth.

How to Dry Cork

Mold and mildew love wet cork. To avoid moldy corks, make sure you remove all the water from this porous material after cleaning it. Use a cloth and press on the cork to dry it. Once you’ve pressed out as much water as you can, leave the cork to air dry completely. Do not store the cork until it is completely dry.

Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is just as easy to clean as other cork items. Just keep the following pointers in mind and remember that with cork, less is more.

Sweep and Mop

Like most floors, cork flooring should be swept and mopped regularly. When mopping, only use cleaners that have a pH close to neutral. Anything too acidic or alkaline will damage the floor’s sealant. If you use dish soap, use a very small amount; too much will leave a film on the floor. Also, your mop should only be damp and not sopping wet.  Too much moisture will saturate the floor and cause the joints to swell and warp.

Chemicals and Products to Avoid

There are cleaners that are not acceptable to use on cork. Also, please exercise caution when using chemicals around the house.

• Swiffer chemical products
• Orange Glo
• Mop & Glo
• Bleach cleaners
• Other harsh materials

These will be absorbed into the cork quickly and damage the floor.

Refinish Your Cork

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to refinishing your floor. Most floors need refurbishing every 5-7 years.

Clean Cork

Cork is definitely an underrated material. Not only is it a sustainable and versatile resource, but it’s very easy to clean and maintain once you know how. Use these cleaning methods any time you need to freshen up your cork.