The study provides a figure-based comparison of four products (PVC and linoleum, both in two different qualities). Economic and ecological effects along the life cycle of each product were investigated, applying cost-benefit analysis as a measuring tool. Special attention was paid to the use phase, where the cleaning properties of the products were identified as the crucial parameter The study proved that products can only be assessed comprehensively by considering all effects along the whole life cycle. Having regard to this, a quite large amount of data (LCA, cleaning properties, economic costs along the life cycle, waste management options, statements on plasticisers, etc) was accumulated.