Hardwood flooring is beautiful and can add real value to any room, but caring for it is harder than simply grabbing a mop or broom. Hardwood flooring needs to be treated with special care and cleaned using a wood floor cleaner.
Why take special care with a wood floor cleaner?
Flooring is the most exposed and most used surface in any room.
Hardwood flooring is usually in high-traffic areas of the house, such as hallways and family rooms, and is exposed to all sorts of germs. Think of the spills, dirt brought in from outside and any number of messes caused by children and/or pets.
Hardwood flooring can be delicate. Depending on the type of finish, using the wrong product could warp or even destroy it.
This advice is for the general cleaning of your hardwood flooring. Some finishes may have more requirements and you should speak to the manufacturer.
Make sure you understand what type of finish your flooring has, then make sure your cleaner should be used for that type of finish.
How to Clean Hardwood Flooring with a Wood Floor Cleaner
The best way to keep hardwood flooring clean is by cleaning it REGULARLY. At a minimum, this means vacuuming or dry mopping each week and deep cleaned using a wood floor cleaner each month.
Getting rid of Dust
The first thing you will want to do is get rid of any excess dust and dirt. It is important to use the right tools.
DO:
- Use a microfibre mop
- Keep it damp
- Use a vacuum designed for hard surfaces.
DON’T:
- Use string mops – they retain too much water!
- Soak your floors – use as little water as possible. Water can expand and crack your flooring, leaving you with the expense to repair or even replace it.
- Use a vacuum that is only designed for soft surfaces
Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is needed about once a month to fully remove dirt and grime buildup. It is also important to use the right cleaner.
Many places on the internet suggest using vinegar…DO NOT USE VINEGAR. Acidic substances, such as vinegar and ammonia, could damage your floor’s protective seal.
Instead, use a cleaner that is specially designed for hardwood flooring, such as Bona’s Hardwood Floor spray. It is non-toxic and works on all hardwood floor types.
A wood floor cleaner will make your floor shine. Using a furniture polish will also make it shine, but too slippery to walk on.
Things to look for in a wood floor cleaner:
- non-toxic
- designed for hardwood flooring
- non-abrasive
- has agents designed to shine your floor
If you are looking to spend a little less, a mixture of dish soap and warm water will also do the trick.
Work in small areas, around 3ft by 3ft, and spray your wood floor cleaner. Use either a microfibre cloth or mop to work through the room.
Particularly dirty areas can be spot cleaned, using a microfibre cloth. Experts recommend mopping or wiping in the direction of the grain.
Using a wood floor cleaner will keep your hardwood flooring looking beautiful and will help it last.