Stores are going to get dirty sometimes—no matter what. “These stores take a ridiculous beating, and a big percentage of their clientele are construction workers who come into the store with boots just laden with either dirt or concrete or paint,” Henken says. This problem is especially prevalent in an area where new homes are being built. API Plus has incorporated boot scrapers and bristle walk-off mats in both the exteriors and interiors of stores so construction workers can take a few seconds to clean their work boots. For everyday messes, Henken suggests choosing floor patterns and colorations that hide dirt instead of highlighting it, including darker or more varied tones.

Walmart’s floors are smooth and easy to clean.