Sarah Hardwood floors are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their natural beauty and durability. However, it is important to properly care for these floors in order to maintain their appearance and longevity. In this article, we will provide expert tips on how to clean hardwood floors the right way to ensure that your flooring lasts for decades.
First, it is important to avoid using cleaning solutions that claim to polish, shine, rejuvenate, or revitalize your hardwood floors. These products may provide temporary results, but they are not designed to wear and may actually damage your floors in the long run. Instead, opt for basic cleaning solutions like a mixture of warm water and Murphy Oil Soap or water and white vinegar. When using these cleaners, be sure to use a damp mop rather than a wet bucket, as excess water can cause the wood to swell and become damaged. A microfiber mop is also a good choice as it requires less water and won’t leave behind a dripping wet mop head. Avoid using steam and steam mops, as they can allow vapor to enter small spaces and damage your floors.
In addition to proper cleaning techniques, it is important to be aware of the environment surrounding your hardwood floors. Wood is sensitive to temperature and humidity, so pay attention to any red flags such as cupping due to excess moisture or gapping, cracking, and splitting due to dry conditions. To prevent these issues, eliminate sources of standing water and use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Surface scratches are a normal part of owning a wood floor, but if you want to fix them, a simple DIY project using a stain marker from a wood furniture touch-up kit can do the trick. Another option is to protect your floors with area rugs or doormats, which can also add personality to your space.
Over time, your hardwood floors may begin to wear down and lose their luster. When this happens, it is time to recoat the floors to bring back their shine and extend their life. A recoat involves applying another layer of finish to the top of the floors without the need for sanding. There are many different floor finishes available, so choose the one that best meets the needs and specifications of your wood floors. Remember, the beauty of wood floors is that they can be repaired, refinished, and recoated to restore them to their original state.
By following these expert tips, you can effectively clean and care for your hardwood floors to ensure that they remain in excellent condition for many years to come.
