Cleaning Hardwood Floors
Hardwood flooring can add value to any home with its beauty and elegance. But
if it's not taken care of properly, your flooring can start to look like the eroded
deck of a pirate ship. For this reason it is important that homeowners with hardwood flooring, especially
expensive hardwood flooring like cherry, maple and mahogany, learn how to properly
clean and care for it.
Tools of the Trade
The two most important tools for cleaning wood floors are a soft-bristled broom
and a non-abrasive dust mop. These tools will allow you to quickly get rid of
noticeable dust and dirt without harming your delicate flooring.
Tricks of the Trade
If your floor needs a serious cleaning there are a few things to take into
consideration before you get down on your hands and knees and start scrubbing.
The first thing to consider is what sort of shape the finish is in. If the
finish on the floor is still in good shape, you can usually mop the floor with
a wood cleaner mixed with water. It is imperative that you wring your mop out
as much as you can before you let it touch the ground because excess water can
seriously damage and warp your flooring. After you’re done mopping, dry the floor
off with a towel. Remember, the oil and wax finishes on your floor are like a
layer of skin that is used for protection. If the finish on your floor is worn
away, the situation will only worsen when you attempt to mop it.
The second thing to take into consideration when cleaning hardwood floors is
the type of mess that you are cleaning up. After a party you will want to clean
alcohol spills with a gentle wood cleaner mixed with water, while a small amount
of bleach mixed with water can clean away mold and mildew. Remember that whenever
you clean wood flooring you must be gentle. Abrasive cleaning products and tools
will only harm your floor so try to dilute your cleaning products and avoid
scrubbing.
When You Need the Trade
If you have a serious dark stain or watermark the only cleaning option may
be to buff and refinish your floor.
Caring for hardwood can take some extra effort, but for all of the work you
put into this flooring you will be repaid in compliments.
