How To Clean Your Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors bring a comfortable beauty to your home. Durable, beautiful, water resistant and, with the right care, can last for decades. You can keep your hardwood floors healthy and strong by following these tips on how to clean hardwood floors.
Dust mopping just won't cut it! It won’t remove the dirt and grime that build up over time. For deep cleaning, you’ll need to use a mop solution but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Which Cleaner Should I Use?
There have always been plenty of recipes for homemade floor cleaners, including those using tea and even vinegar. However we recommend a bi-weekly or at the least a monthly cleaning using a wood floor cleaning product made specifically for your type of floor.
GOSHEN FLOOR MART'S Steps TO Clean YOUR Hardwood Floor
- Start with a dust mop to remove dirt, dust, pet hair and other debris that could scratch the floor. Don't use a vacuum with a beater bar attachment because, it could damage your floor. Do this at least once a week.
- After using a dust mop to remove dirt, wet a rag or sponge mop in your cleaning solution.
- Make sure it is damp, not wet. Never use a saturated tool on your hardwood floors.
- Mop the floor with the cleaner, be careful to not put too much liquid on the floor!
- Rinse and repeat.
- Wipe up excess water with a clean, dry towel because standing water will damage the floor.
DO NOT USE THIS ON YOUR FLOOR!
Avoid using anything from the store that claims to restore luster, polish or add shine. These types of maintenance products leave behind a temporary, non-protective, shiny film that will damage your floor!
How to Prevent Damage to a Hardwood Floor...
- Put door mats inside and outside exterior doors, this will keep moisture and dirt down. It will not solve the issue but it will help and will keep your cleaning schedule down. This will also make your flooring last longer, the less you have to clean it the better.
- Avoid scratches by using floor protectors under furniture and putting down rugs in high-traffic areas.
- Make sure to clean pet paws after outdoor visits.
- Keep your shoes by the door. Shoes track in more dirt and moisture than anything. Make a point to take them off as soon as you get home!