How to Clean Your Hardwood Floors

Cleaning is just a fact of life – you can’t avoid it. Cleaning and taking good care of your hardwood flooring is especially important to keep it looking new and have it last a lifetime. That being said, the best way to maintain and clean your floors is a bit more complicated than just pushing some water around. Follow this easy to read cleaning routine to keep your hardwood floors in good condition for years to come. For more information on removing paint stains from your hardwoods, check out this article!

Dusting and Sweeping Your Floors

The first step in cleaning your floors is to dust or sweep them. This method removes any dust, dirt or particles from the floor’s surface and prepares your floors to be mopped. When sweeping, be sure to use a soft-bristled broom and sweep with the grain, not against it. When you sweep against the grain, all that dust, dirt and particles can get left behind in the cracks and dips in the grain. Be sure to remove all dust and dirt properly before mopping your floors. If you are one to vacuum up your findings, check and see if your vacuum uses a soft-bristled roller. 

Mopping Your Floors

Mopping is a great way to remove any excess dust, dirt, oils and grime from your floors. It’s important to note that you wouldn’t mop your hardwood floors like you would tile or linoleum floors. This is because water is harmful to wood, especially in large amounts. The best way to mop your hardwood floors is to use a damp mop cloth (being cautious to not leave any standing water) and then quickly dry up any moisture on the wood’s surface. Following these rules during your cleaning routine will save you a lot of headaches with your hardwood floors later on. 

Polishing Your Floors

There are wood floor cleaners and polishers to help keep your floors healthy and protected. Be sure to use one recommended by a hardwood flooring professional as some may be harmful to your flooring. Use these cleaning supplies after you have dusted and mopped your floors for best results. Be cautious when applying cleaners and polishers to high-traffic areas as this can be a slip hazard to others. 

Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning Hardwood Floors

The most important rule to remember when cleaning your hardwood floors is don’t put water directly on the wood’s surface. Always use a damp cloth or mop and be sure to dry the floors after. Water is wood’s worst enemy and too much water could cause damage to your floors. Do use a floor cleaner if you’re wanting a deeper clean than with just soap and water. Don’t, however, use a floor cleaner with harsh chemicals. Abrasive and chemical-based cleaners can cause damage to your floors by weakening the wood’s surface and removing any finishes or protective coatings. Do clean your floors often, especially in high-traffic areas, but don’t over clean your floors. 

Need some more cleaning advice from a hardwood flooring professional? Ask the experts at Zack Hardwood Flooring and we’d be happy to walk you through the best cleaning techniques as well as give you some tips and tricks for maintaining health hardwoods.