How to Maintain and Clean Hardwood Floors: best way to clean

As a leading construction company, we understand that hardwood floors are a valuable investment in your home. Knowing how to clean hardwood floors properly is crucial for maintaining their beauty and longevity. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share expert tips on how to keep your hardwood floors clean and organized, from daily care to professional maintenance.

room with wooden floor

Daily and Weekly Cleaning Routines

  1. Sweep Daily: One of the best ways to maintain hardwood floors is to sweep or vacuum daily. Use a soft broom or a microfiber dust mop to remove dirt and debris that can scratch your floors.
  2. Vacuum Regularly: For a deeper clean, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. This helps pick up dust from crevices and between floorboards.
  3. Damp Mop Weekly: When it comes to how to clean hardwood floors, less water is more. Use a well-wrung microfiber mop or a spray mop with a suitable hardwood floor cleaner. Avoid using too much water on the floor, as this can damage the wood.
  4. Choose the Right Cleaner: Select a floor cleaner specifically designed for hardwood. Products like Bona hardwood floor cleaners are excellent choices for maintaining your floor’s finish.
  5. Clean High-Traffic Areas More Often: Keep dirt and grime from building up in busy areas of your home by cleaning them more frequently.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Damage

  1. Use Floor Mats: Place mats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture before they reach your hardwood floors.
  2. Implement a “No Shoes” Policy: This simple rule can significantly reduce dirt and potential scratches.
  3. Use Furniture Pads: Protect the floor by applying furniture pads to the legs of chairs, tables, and other heavy items.
  4. Maintain Proper Humidity: Keep your home’s relative humidity between 35% and 55% to prevent wood expansion or contraction.
  5. Control Temperature: Maintain your home’s temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit to protect the floor’s finish.

Dealing with Scratches, Dents, and Stains

  1. Address Light Scratches: Use a hardwood floor touch-up kit for minor scratches.
  2. Handle Deep Scratches: For more significant damage, you may need to refinish the affected area.
  3. Tackle Dents: Try using a damp cloth and an iron to gently raise the wood grain for small dents.
  4. Remove Stubborn Stains: Use a specialized hardwood floor cleaner for tough stains. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
  5. Prevent Water Damage: Clean spills immediately to avoid standing water, which can cause wood damage.

Seasonal Care and Climate Considerations

  1. Winter Care: Use a humidifier to prevent wood shrinkage and gaps between floorboards.
  2. Summer Maintenance: Run a dehumidifier in humid months to protect against wood expansion.
  3. Spring and Fall: Clean more frequently during pollen season to remove dust and allergens.
  4. Year-Round Protection: Use window coverings to protect your floors from direct sunlight, which can dull the surface over time.

Professional Maintenance and Refinishing Options

  1. Schedule Deep Cleaning: Book a professional deep clean annually to maintain your floor’s longevity.
  2. Consider Refinishing: Every 3-5 years, depending on wear, consider refinishing to restore your floors’ original beauty.
  3. Explore Screening and Recoating: This less invasive process can refresh your floor’s protective layer without full refinishing.
  4. Consult Experts: For professional services, consult the National Wood Flooring Association for certified professionals.
  5. Care for Oiled Hardwood Floors: If you have oiled hardwood floors, apply a new coat of oil as recommended by the manufacturer.

Understanding Your Floor’s Finish

  1. Surface-Sealed Floors: Most modern hardwood floors have polyurethane or urethane finishes, which are stain and water-resistant.
  2. Penetrating-Seal-Treated Floors: These finishes soak into the wood grain and require special care.
  3. Older Finishes: Lacquered, varnished, or shellacked floors need extra attention and gentle cleaning.

Cleaning Products and Tools

  1. Microfiber Mop: An essential tool for both dry and damp mopping.
  2. Dust Mop: Ideal for daily cleaning to pick up dust and small debris.
  3. Wood Floor Cleaner: Use products specifically designed for hardwood floors.
  4. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Steer clear of vinegar, water vinegar mixtures, or steam mops, which can damage wood floors.
  5. Say No to Steam: Steam mops can force moisture into the wood, causing long-term damage.

Additional Tips for Longevity

  1. Clean in the direction of the Wood Grain: This helps prevent dirt from settling into the grain.
  2. Use a Flat Mop: Avoid string mops that can leave excess water on the floor.
  3. Wring Out Your Mop: Ensure your mop is damp, not wet, to avoid water damage.
  4. Keep Your Home Clean: Regular dusting and cleaning help maintain the entire floor.
  5. Use Wood Cleaner Monthly: For a deeper clean, use a specialized wood cleaner once a month.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you’ll help maintain hardwood floors that stay beautiful for years to come. 

Remember, proper floor care is an investment in your home’s value and appearance. If you’re considering installing new hardwood floors or need professional maintenance for your existing ones, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team. 

We’re here to help you protect your investment and keep your hardwood floors looking their best.