Wood Floors

Hardwood floors are a popular choice for home design. They can provide a natural, classic look and last for years. But just like other floor surfaces, it is important to keep your hardwood floors clean of dirt, mud and grime which can cause damage and repair. A regular cleaning can do wonders for the preservation and state of your floor. Fortunately, cleaning hardwood floors is a relatively easy task.

How To

Before you even begin cleaning your hard wood floors, you must know what type of finish your floor has been coated in. Your hardwood floors coating prevents moisture from soaking into the wood, which can cause warping or disfiguring. Understanding your floor’s finish will determine your method of cleaning. For most finishes, a quick clean is simple, requiring only a soft-brush broom and dustpan. A soft-brush broom is important, as thicker bristles or a heavier brush can leave scratches in your floor. Go over your floor with the soft-brush broom removing dirt, dust and grime buildup. The frequency of these cleans will vary and are dependent on how fast dirt can build up in your home.  For an extra shine, after sweeping, you can go over the floor with a damp mop. Remember to never use too much liquid when mopping, as the extra moisture can damage your floor. On the same note, it is good habit to clean up any unwanted spills immediately, as they are tough to remove if left to stain. Always remember to give your floor time to dry, as walking across a wet floor can leave footprints. Providing the right care regularly is the best way to preserve the state of your hardwood floor.

Tips & Takeaways

We all understand that accidents do happen, and sometimes you need a little extra to get your floor back to looking its best. If a mop and warm water isn’t getting the job done, adding some white vinegar can help cut through grease and wax buildup and provide a fresher scent. There are also alternatives to the soft-brush broom. A sweeper can often pick up dust much easier than any broom however, they are less effective against bigger jobs.

Swiffer cleaning products offer a line of of quality sweepers. Most spills can be solved by cleaning the area immediately with a paper towel or a dampened rag. However, some spills can leave a stain and depending on the severity, there are a few ways to proceed. A nylon rubbing pad combined with a commercial cleaning product and some elbow grease can get out smaller stains (remember to check the label of any cleaning product to ensure that it is safe to use on your floor). But for a more severe stain, you may need to go beyond the everyday cleaner. For more information on how to remove specific stains, click here. Doing a little research and knowing your hardwood floor’s finish, will ensure you are following the proper steps to safely and effectively care for your floor.