Hardwood floors look great in any home, but they can be hard to maintain. Regular cleaning keeps them in good shape, but using the wrong method can cause damage like scratches, stains, or warping. With the right tools and technique, you can keep them looking as good as new.
How Often to Clean Hardwood Floors
Sweep or mop your hardwood floors once a week to keep them looking good. If your home has a lot of foot traffic, you might need to clean more often. More foot traffic means more dirt, dust, and pet hair on your floors. Clean up dirt, spills, and stains as soon as you see them.
Preparing Your Floors for Cleaning
Always vacuum your hardwood floors before mopping. Dirt and debris can scratch the surface if not removed first. Vacuuming also helps the cleaning solution work better.
Materials Needed
Keep these supplies ready when cleaning hardwood floors.
- Vacuum
- Natural dish soap
- Water
- Olive oil (optional)
- Microfiber mop
- Bucket
How to Clean Hardwood Floors
The key to cleaning hardwood floors is to keep them as dry as possible. Too much water can damage the wood, so always wring out a wet mop. Also, avoid strong cleaners like vinegar and lemon juice, as they are too acidic for hardwood.
- Vacuum the floors.
- Mix warm water with a few drops of natural dish soap in a bucket. (For extra shine, add a little olive oil.)
- Dip your microfiber mop in the bucket, then squeeze out extra water so it’s damp, not too wet.
- Mop the floor in small sections.
- Use a dry mop to remove excess water and prevent streaks.
How to Remove Stains From Hardwood Floors
Removing stains from hardwood can be difficult because strong acids and scrubbing agents like vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda can damage the wood. The best way to prevent stains is to wipe them up immediately. If a stain has set, use a natural hardwood or all-purpose cleaner. If the stain won’t come out, replacing the damaged board may be the only solution.
How to Prevent Streaking on Hardwood Floors
To avoid streaks on hardwood floors, mop along the grain of the wood to spread the cleaning solution evenly. Keeping the floors from getting too wet during cleaning also helps prevent streaking. Additionally, steer clear of harsh or abrasive cleaners, as they can leave residues and marks.
How to Maintain Hardwood Floors
To keep your floors clean longer, regular upkeep is important.
- Place mats at entrances and take off your shoes at the door.
- Put rubber pads on furniture legs to prevent scratches when moving them.
- Clean up spills right away to avoid stains.
- Sweep and vacuum often to remove dust and dirt from the hardwood.
- Use a vacuum with a soft-bristle attachment.