Photo by Mo Freeman

Originally Posted On: https://znetflooring.com/blog/tips-for-cleaning-and-maintaining-wood-flooring/

 

CARING FOR YOUR WOOD FLOORS PROPERLY THEY’LL LAST A LIFETIME.

 

Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Wood Floors

Wood floors are not just a stylish addition to a home, they’re an investment.

Wood is beautiful, natural, living material. You’ve taken time to make sure it’s installed perfectly, to create the finish you want. And when it’s properly cared for, it will actually only look better the longer it’s down.

So how can you make sure that you treat your floor right?

Read on for our 3 top tips for cleaning your wood floors the right way.

1.  WIPE UP SPILLS IMMEDIATELY

Water is still the enemy.

Have a policy that all family members are familiar with – any spills or muddy footprints must be wiped up immediately.

It’s a good precaution to keep a cloth handy in a hall closet or other nearby place so that you can wipe up those spills before they turn into damage.

Also, make sure that there’s no way that water can get in and damage your wood floors. That means checking that doors and windows are fully watertight and that AC units are not able to leak onto them.

 

2. REMOVE THE TOP DIRT

The last thing you want to do it go straight in with water or chemicals without removing the top layer of dust and dirt from your floor first.

The gold standard is a two-stage process.

First, carefully vacuum the floor. To do the best job, and stop any dirt getting into the mix later, break out the attachments and get into those corners and edges.

Do this regularly – at least weekly. The reason is that if not removed, these little particles will wear away at the beautiful top surface of your wood floors. Not a great look.

Then you’re ready for the dust mop.

When it comes to dust-mopping, these days there’s only one way to go – microfiber. This technology has millions of tiny fibers that trap dust and dirt way better than regular cotton or synthetic product can.

This means that there’s less need to use chemicals and they are more effective at removing the top layer of dirt when used dry.

Now the top layer has been removed, you’re ready for tip number three…

3. USE A GENTLE SOLUTION

The market is flooded with floor cleaners, but some of these will do your floor more harm than good.

With an excellent microfiber mop pad, you may be able to simply use a little water to get the best results. Otherwise, the best way to clean wood floors is to use a basic solution of 1/2 cup white vinegar in a gallon of water, not too hot, not too cold. We also recommend Bona’s Hardwood Cleaner and they even have a handy little kit that has products for multiple flooring types.

 

KEEP THOSE WOOD FLOORS SPARKLING!

If you imagined that keeping those hardwoods perfect would mean hours on your knees scrubbing then we’ve got good news for you!

Keep removing the top layer of dirt, keep them dry and use a simple solution for mopping, and your wood floors will continue to show off their natural beauty for decades to come.

Always keep felt pads on the bottom of your furniture to protect from scratching, we get calls all the time asking if planks can be replaced due to furniture scratching. Felt pads will save you money and headaches.

Don’t forget to wipe your paws when coming home, preventing dirt and grit from building up in the fist place can help a lot!

If you’re looking for new hardwoods, then look no further!

Click here to check out our superb hardwood range today.