Hardwood Floor Cleaning
Hardwood Floor Cleaning:
Tips, Tricks, and Best Practices
Beautiful hardwood floors are the centerpiece of a great home or office, but they require regular care and cleaning to maintain their beauty. In this guide, we'll look at the best practices for hardwood floor cleaning, ensuring your floors stay stunning for years to come.
The Best Way to Clean Hardwood Floors
- Start with a Gentle Sweep or Vacuum:
Before you begin cleaning, you need to remove any loose dirt and dust. A soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a floor brush attachment will do the trick. Make sure that your vacuum is set to the correct floor type to avoid scratching your floors.
- Damp Mopping with a Quality Hardwood Floor Cleaner: For a thorough clean, you'll need a hardwood floor cleaner, so choose a product specifically formulated for wood floors. Mix the cleaner as directed and mop using a damp (not wet) mop or microfiber mop. Be sure the mop is well wrung out, so you don't oversaturate the floor, which can cause damage. We recommend Bona Floor Cleaner, a trusted and effective choice.
- Spot Cleaning: For sticky spots or spills, use the hardwood floor cleaner on a soft cloth or a mop. Try to avoid using excessive water, which can seep into the wood and lead to warping.
- Always Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Stay away from those harsh or abrasive cleaning products, as they can damage the finish and wood. Stick to pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaners recommended by the floor manufacturer.
The Best Mops for Hardwood Floors
There are so many mops available that it can be hard to choose the one that's right for you. Here are some options to consider:
- Microfiber Mop: Microfiber mops are very effective at trapping dirt and dust without the need for excessive moisture. They are gentle on hardwood floors and can be used with floor cleaners for excellent results.
- Spray Mop: Some spray mops come with an integrated container for your cleaner, making it easy to apply and mop in one step.
- Steam Mop: Steam mops are a fantastic choice for a thorough clean without chemicals. However, use them sparingly, as excessive moisture can damage your wood over time.
The Importance of Regular Cleaning
- Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your hardwood floors. It prevents the buildup of debris and abrasive particles that can lead to scratches and dullness. With proper care, your floors will continue to shine and impress for generations.
Hardwood Floor Polish
- In addition to regular cleaning, consider using a good hardwood floor polish. This product can help restore the luster of your floors and protect them from daily wear and tear.
Tips for a Glorious Shine
- Dust and clean your floors regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
- Use area rugs and runners in high-traffic areas to protect your floors.
- Avoid excessive moisture and wipe up any spills promptly.
- Trim your pets' claws to prevent scratches.
- Removing shoes is also a good idea.
- Implement a humidity control system to maintain a stable indoor humidity level.
Cleaning and protecting your beautiful hardwood floors is an integral part of preserving the beauty and integrity of your floors. With the right cleaning routine and cleaning products, your hardwood floors will continue to shine and impress, becoming the timeless centerpiece of your home or office. Should your floor become scratched or damaged, give the professionals at
Lewis Wood Floor Refinishing a call. Repairing or refinishing wood floors is what we do.