Linoleum: The Durable Natural Floor and How to Care for It

32 LINOLEUM

Linoleum is a blend of crushed cork, wood flour, linseed oil, and a small amount of metallic oxide. This flexible, elastic material makes an excellent flooring option for living spaces. Linoleum flooring provides insulation against cold and dampness, reduces the sound of footsteps, and enhances a room’s decor much like a wool rug. It’s durable and can last for decades.

Every three months, linoleum should be treated with linseed oil and carefully wiped down with a soft cloth (an old silk cloth works best). Ink stains on linoleum can be removed with a pumice stone or sandpaper. If the stained areas lighten, they can be rubbed with linseed oil to restore the linoleum’s color.