If you’re already basking in the beauty of wood floors in your home, then the odds are that you already clean them as part of your deep cleaning routine, especially in high traffic areas. But we happen to have the ultimate guide for cleaning hardwood floors with a few cleaning tips and tricks to help you do it well each and every time!
Follow along step-by-step to see how to best improve the look of your hardwood floors and restore them to look their absolute best. So, let’s take a deep dive into how to clean like a pro! Grab your cleaning products, and let’s get started!
Why Choose Hardwood Floors?
If you don’t currently have hardwood floors and are contemplating the switch, then we have a full list of reasons why this type of flooring may be perfect for you. From their classic look to their durability, follow along to see how hardwood floors are one of the top choices for flooring in your home.
- Style options are nearly endless
- They’re a classic, so they’ll never go out of style.
- Hardwood is allergy-free, so it helps promote healthier living.
- It’s an eco-friendly option, especially when compared to others.
- The money you save from it makes the floors a worthy investment.
- They are actually super easy to clean, repair, and maintain.
- It’s a versatile, yet stylish choice.
- These floors have longevity in their life span.
- They are strong and durable.
- No matter what, they’ll always seem ageless.
- They increase home value.
This Is How To Clean Hardwood Floors And Prevent Damages
There are so many ways to clean wood floors and take preventative measures to ensure they’ll look the best they possibly can without buildup or grime. So, let’s see what additional tips you can pick up and how you can prevent any real damages from occurring to your flooring.
- Make sure to sweep your floors often with a broom with soft bristles or a dust mop to prevent the collection of dust.
- Make sure to vacuum to remove any other dirt, dust, or sand. Use a vacuum cleaner that is gentle and won’t scratch your floors. You may want to try vacuuming with a brush attachment to further prevent damage.
- Each type of hardwood may be a little different in terms of care. Make sure to partner with the manufacturer or retailer to understand the specific cleaning requirements of the hardwood you have chosen, and whether you may need a specific wood floor cleaner.
- If something happens to spill, make sure to move it quickly with an absorbent microfiber cloth or paper towel. Small amounts of water will most likely not harm your floor's finish, but be careful that excessive liquids and standing water don’t become acquainted with your floors.
- Consider using rugs or runners as floor protectors in areas of the home that are high traffic zones.
- It will benefit some types of hardwood floors more than others if you wax or buff them. Look at the manufacturer’s recommendations to see how each one will endure this form of cleaning.
- Take preventative measures and use furniture pads on the bottoms of your tables and chairs. This will help to ensure your floors aren’t scratched, dented, or knicked.
- If there are scratches, knicks, or dents, make sure to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer to best treat them. Some methods will work better on certain types of hardwood flooring than others.
- In different entrances of the home, it’s best to lay down mats, so as not to track in any dirt or excess stones.
- If you do need to clean the flooring underneath your furniture, make sure not to drag the pieces across the space to prevent scratching.
- When possible, avoid wearing heavier shoes or heels. These increase the possibility of dents, knicks, and scratches.
- When mopping, make sure you only use a damp mop (not sopping wet) in order to avoid the use of excess water and the possibility of water damage. Wring it out before you set it down on your hard floor. A microfiber mop head might be a good option to mop wood floors.
What If There Are Hardwood Stains?
Not to worry! While stains can be prevented, we also understand that they can still occur on your beautiful hardwoods. If this is the case, there are plenty of methods that will help you remove different types of hardwood stains. Follow along to see what remedy will work best with the following types of stains.
Removing White Stains Or Watermarks
Floor wax or a spot cleaning solution may do just the trick! However, in the event that the white stains or watermarks go even deeper than expected, you may just have to hit it with a quick sanding round. However, this may require some refinishing, so it's best to avoid it if you can.
Watermarks have a habit of being tricky, so make sure to be very careful when taking preventative measures with your hardwood floors.
Oil-Based Stains Be Gone
In the event that oil-based stains are present, there’s a little bit of a different way to handle them. Start by rubbing the area with a soft dry mop or a clean cloth and add hardwood floor cleaner or oil soap to break up the presence of grease.
Then make sure to rinse it with clean, warm water. If all of the stain isn’t removed at once, then be sure to repeat this process for the best results. If you have children or pets, be sure they are clear of the area until you have finished, and the floors are dry.
Once the spot is finished drying, there is the possibility the grain of the wood will be raised. If this is the case, then go ahead and sand down the area until it’s smooth again with sandpaper. Again, this comes with the risk that you may have to refinish, so be wary.
Eliminate Heel Marks
Oh, the heel marks! Floor wax is key to removing any sort of heel marks that occur because of your shoes. Make sure to use this method to also prevent any future floor marks from occurring too.
Getting To The Bottom Of Pet Stains And Dark Spots
In the event where a stain does occur on your floors, don’t be afraid to use a specialized stain spot remover. Take a soft mop or sponge to the floor in order to remove the marks without creating any scratches. In some cases, white vinegar is a safe ingredient to place on hardwood floors.
You can also choose to wax your floors for an added level of cleanliness and protection.
The Benefits Of Cleaning Hardwood Floors
Now that we know how to clean the hardwood floors, let’s take a look at all the reasons why hardwoods are worth having. Remember, the small amount of time you invest now in regular cleaning and maintaining of your hardwood floors will definitely be worthwhile later down the line. Here’s a closer look at some of the benefits of cleaning your hardwood floors:
· You will extend the life of your flooring.
· You can protect your floors and keep them safe from everyday wear and tear.
· Make them look like new when you apply a nice, thick finishing coat.
· Hide and prevent scuff marks, scratches, and other minor damages with a finishing coat.
· Avoid harsh chemicals when you DIY clean them yourself instead of professionally.
· Save money because you’ll have the ability to sustain your current floors for much longer.
· Remove any dust or excess pet hair that is responsible for causing allergies.
Our Final Thoughts
Have you been cleaning your hardwood floors but always knew there was a better way? Cleaning your floors should not only be an essential part of your home cleaning routine, but it should also be done to extend the life of your hardwoods. The flooring in your home is an important aspect of its functionality and aesthetics, and it should be treated with a little TLC in order to keep them in the best possible condition for years to come!
What type of hardwood floors are currently in your home? No matter what your style, hardwoods are meant to be clean and beautiful. Without a doubt, home renovations and upkeep are an important part of home living. So, take the time to clean your floors, and keep them looking fabulous with each passing year!
Sources:
https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/surface/how-to-clean-hardwood-floors/
https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/maintenance-and-repair/cleaning/how-to-clean-hardwood-floors
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-polish-wood-floors/
https://www.servicemasterasheville.com/blog/benefits-of-having-your-wood-floor-cleaned-this-fall
