We don’t have to tell you how stunning hardwood floors can be—or how tricky they can be to maintain. Hardwood flooring requires proper maintenance to keep it looking its best, and the secret lies in your cleaning supplies and technique. In this guide, we’ll take you through expert-approved tips and step-by-step instructions for how to clean hardwood floors the right way.
Washing your flooring incorrectly can lead to scratches, stains, dullness, and even warping, but have no fear. From choosing the right cleaning solutions to avoiding common mistakes, here’s everything you need to know about how to clean hardwood floors and ensure they stay as beautiful as the day they were installed.
How Often to Clean Hardwood Floors
When adding flooring into your cleaning routine or schedule, you’ll want to consider how much activity it sees. “The more foot traffic, the faster dirt, grime, and pet hair build up on your floors,” says Mary Gagliardi, in-house scientist and cleaning expert for Clorox.
While busier homes may need to be cleaning more frequently, hardwood floors usually require a once-a-week cleaning. Be sure to also treat dirt, stains, and spills as they arise.
Preparing Your Floors for Cleaning
Always vacuum your hardwood floors before going over them with a mop. “Dirt and debris on the floor can act as abrasives,” explains Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of AspenClean.
“When you clean the floors without removing them first, you may inadvertently cause scratches as you move the mop across your hardwood floor.”
How to Clean Hardwood Floors
Floors properly prepped? Great! “Vacuuming before cleaning ensures that the cleaning solution can work more effectively,” reminds Sokolowski.
Now, it’s time to gather the following materials and follow the expert instructions below for cleaning your hardwood floors. The most important thing to remember is to avoid letting them get too wet. “Standing water can damage wood,” says Sokolowski. “If your mop becomes too wet, wring it out again.”
Additionally, avoid using any harsh cleaners like white vinegar and lemon juice, as they are too acidic for hardwood floors. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can keep your floors gleaming without compromising their beauty.
Materials Needed
- Vacuum
- Natural dish soap
- Water
- Olive oil (optional)
- Microfiber mop
- Bucket
Instructions
- Vacuum your floors.
- In a bucket, mix warm water with a few drops of natural dish soap. If you want to add a natural shine to your hardwood floors, you can include a small amount of olive oil in the cleaning solution.
- Dip your microfiber mop in the bucket. Wring out excess liquid to make sure the mop is damp but not overly wet.
- Mop your floors, working in small sections at a time.
- Go over the floors with a dry mop to prevent water damage and ensure a streak-free finish.
How to Remove Stains From Hardwood Floors
Removing stains from hardwood can be tricky, as the material can be damaged by common household stain removers like white vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda.
“For stains, the best thing is to wipe them right away so they don’t settle onto the wood,” shares Sokolowski. “If you missed some stains, try a natural hardwood floor cleaner or a natural all-purpose cleaner. As a last resort, if you can, replace the stained board with a new one.”
How to Prevent Streaking on Hardwood Floors
To prevent streaking on hardwood floors, make sure you’re mopping with the grain of the wood, which helps distribute the cleaning solution more evenly. Not letting the floors get too wet when cleaning will also help prevent streaks, says Sokolowski. What’s more, avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, as these can leave behind residues and marks.
How to Maintain Hardwood Floors
If you want your floors to stay clean for as long as possible, maintenance is key. Our experts recommend the following tips for keeping your floors in tip-top shape.
- Use entryway mats and leave your shoes at the door.
- Attach rubber pads to the legs of furniture, which will prevent scratches and scuffs when furniture is moved, says Sokolowski.
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains from setting in.
- Sweep and vacuum regularly to keep dust and debris off the hardwood.
- Vacuum with soft-bristle attachment.
