We all know that it’s important to maintain our hardwood floors, but what exactly should we do? Hardwood flooring is one of the most popular flooring used in homes today. It’s incredibly durable, easy to
We all know that it’s important to maintain our hardwood floors, but what exactly should we do?
Hardwood flooring is one of the most popular flooring used in homes today. It’s incredibly durable, easy to clean, and looks great. But, like any flooring, it needs to be maintained correctly in order to look its best.
This post describes what maintenance you should be doing to keep your hardwood floors looking their best.
Hardwood Flooring Guide: Care & Maintenance
Wooden floors are a popular choice for home flooring and come in a range of finishes, from natural wood to polished and lacquered. While they may seem like a high-maintenance option, they can last for years with the right care and maintenance. This guide will take you through the steps you need to take to keep your wooden floors looking their best.
Regularly Sweep or Vacuum
Hardwood floors are a beautiful and classic addition to any home, but they require some special care to keep them looking their best. Sweeping or vacuuming your hardwood floors regularly to remove dirt and debris is one of the most important things you can do for them.
If you have a busy household, you may need to sweep or vacuum your floors daily. If your home is relatively quiet, you can probably get away with doing it a few times a week. Just be sure to do it regularly so that dirt and debris won’t have a chance to build up and scratch or damage your floors.
Mop with A Damp Cloth or Mop Specifically Designed for Hardwood Floors
When it comes to cleaning your hardwood floors, you have a few different options. You can either use a damp cloth or a mop specifically designed for hardwood floors.
If you choose to use a damp cloth, make sure it is not too wet. You don’t want to damage your floors by soaking them. Instead, dampen the cloth and then go over your floors.
If you have a mop specifically designed for hardwood floors, you can use that. These mops are usually made of microfiber, which is gentle on your floors.
Either way, make sure that you wring out your cloth or mop before you start cleaning. You don’t want to leave any puddles behind, which can damage your floors.
Start in one corner of the room and work your way out. Go over the floor a few times to ensure that you’ve gotten all of the dirt and grime.
Once you’re done, take a dry cloth and go over the floor to make it completely dry. You don’t want to leave any water spots behind.
Place Mats or Rugs at Entrances to Help Trap Dirt and Grit
Whether you have hardwood floors, tile, or carpet, one way to help keep them clean is to place mats or rugs at all your entrances. By doing this, you can help trap dirt and grit before it even has a chance to enter your home. This will help keep your floors clean, but it will also help them last longer.
If you have hardwood floors, mats can help protect them from scratches. Place a mat at each entrance, and put one near any high traffic areas, like in front of the sink or stove. You can find mats made specifically for hardwood floors, or you can use a regular mat as long as it doesn’t have a rubber backing, which can damage your floors.
Have Your Floors Professionally Cleaned and Refinished Every Few Years to Keep Them Looking Like New
One of the best ways to keep your hardwood floors looking new is to have them professionally cleaned and refinished every few years. This will help to protect the floors from wear and tear, and keep them looking their best. There are a few things to keep in mind when you are having your floors refinished, such as the type of finish you want and the level of protection you need. You will also want to make sure that your company is reputable and has a good track record.
Wipe up spills immediately
Spills can damage hardwood floors in several ways. First, the liquid can seep into the cracks and crevices, causing the wood to swell. Second, the fluid can leave a stain on the surface of the wood. And third, the spill can create a slip-and-fall hazard.
So, the next time you spill something on your hardwood floors, don’t wait to clean it up. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot up the liquid. Then, using a mild soap and water solution, clean the area. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly to prevent any water damage.
If you have a stubborn stain that won’t come out, you may need to call a professional hardwood flooring company. They can help you select the right cleaners and treatments to make your floors look new again.
Polish the Floors Every Few Months to Keep Them Looking Shiny and New
It’s easy to keep hardwood floors looking shiny and new with a bit of regular upkeep. Polish or wax the floors every few months to keep them protected and looking their best. This will also help to extend the life of your floors.
Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals or Cleaners on Your Hardwood Floors
There are a few things you should avoid using on your hardwood floors. First, never use a wet mop. Water can seep into the cracks and warp the wood. Second, don’t use any cleaners that contain ammonia or vinegar. These can also damage the finish.
If you need to clean your hardwood floors, there are a few gentle cleaners you can use. You can make your own by mixing equal parts of water and white vinegar. Or, you can buy a cleaner specifically made for hardwood floors.
Remember, taking care of your hardwood floors will make them last longer. So avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners and stick to gentle, safe products.
Protect Your Floors from Furniture by Using Pads or Coasters
Furniture pads are small, round pieces of felt or other material that you place under the legs of furniture. They help to distribute the weight of the furniture and prevent scratches. Coasters are similar to furniture pads, but they are larger and can be used on all types of furniture, not just chairs and tables.
There are many different types of furniture pads and coasters available, so you can find ones that match your decor. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to find, so there is no excuse not to use them. Your hardwood floors will thank you!
Lift Furniture While Moving
When you’re moving furniture, it’s tempting just to drag it across the floor. But if you have hardwood floors, that’s a surefire way to get scratches. Instead, lift the furniture whenever possible. It may take a little more effort, but keeping your floors looking pristine will be worth it.
Avoid Wearing High Heels or Other Shoes that Can Damage the Wood
When protecting your wood floors, be sure to avoid wearing high heels or other shoes that can damage the surface. High heels can leave behind dents and scratches, so it’s best to stick to flats or other footwear that won’t cause any damage. If you must wear heels, be sure to take them off as soon as you enter your home to avoid accidents.
Regularly Check for Signs of Wear and Tear, and Address Any Problems Immediately
When it comes to hardwood floors, a few warning signs indicate it’s time for a replacement. First, take a look at the overall condition of the floor. If it’s severely scratched, warped, or otherwise damaged, it’s probably time for a new one.
Another warning sign is if the floor is starting to cup or buckle. This is usually caused by moisture damage and can’t be repaired.
If you have any loose or missing boards, this is also a sign that it’s time for a new floor.
Finally, if the floor is worn out and doesn’t have the same beauty it once did, it’s probably time to replace it. Hardwood floors can last a long time, but eventually, they will need to be replaced. Be on the lookout for these warning signs so you can know when it’s time for a new floor.
Comments