The Right Way to Clean Your Wood Floors

Our wood floors are a cherished part of our homes that deserve exceptional care. Discover our guide to effectively clean and maintain your beautiful wood floors!

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Arsenal

Here are some great cleaning tools and products to have on hand to maintain your wood floors:

• Soft-bristled broom or microfiber dust mop
• Vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment (avoid using vacuums with rotating brushes, as they may scratch the wood)
• Microfiber mop
• pH-neutral wood floor cleaner (avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners)
• Clean, lint-free cloths
  

Find out your finish

If you don't want to harm your wood floors in the cleaning process it's incredibly important to determine what type of finish is on your floors. To determine your finish, we recommend using a knife or sharp object in a discreet area on your wood floors to scrape material and determine the type.

Surface Finishes:

If you scraped away a clear-looking material from your floor, you most likely have a surface finish. Surface finishes, such as urethane and polyurethane, create a protective barrier, making any liquids bead up as opposed to soaking in. Water and water-based cleaning solutions are safe to use on surface finished floors. 

Penetrating Finishes:

If the finish smudges when you try to scrape it, you most likely have a penetrating finish. Penetrating finishes, such as linseed oil, are able to absorb water easily. Do not use water or water-based cleaning products on this type of floor as it can cause damage such as warping. Use solvent-based cleaning products on floors with a penetrating finish. 

Step 2: Dust and Sweep

Dusting and sweeping your wood floors on a regular basis, one to two times per week, is a great way to keep up with maintenance. 

Remove loose dirt and debris from your wood floors using a soft-bristled broom or a microfiber dust mop. Gently sweep the floor, moving in the direction of the wood grain to prevent scratching. If you prefer to use a vacuum, ensure it has a hardwood floor attachment or a setting to disengage the brush roll, as this can damage your beautiful wood floors! Be sure to pay special attention to corners and under furniture.

TIP: ALWAYS sweep and dust prior to mopping! When mopping a dirty surfaces, this can dig dirt and dust into your wood floors, possibly causing scratches. 

Step 3: Mopping Time!

Now that the surface is dust-free, it's time to mop away any lingering dirt and grime!

A microfiber mop is ideal for wood floors, as they are gentle and won't leave behind excess water. Dampen the mop with a small amount of a pH-neutral wood floor cleaner. Avoid soaking the mop, as excessive water can damage the wood.

Allow your wood floors to air dry and avoid walking on them to prevent any marks or scratches. 

Wood Floor Cleaning Tips and Tricks

• Follow the wood grain to prevent scratching
• Avoid letting water stand on the surface as it can seep in and ruin your floors, possibly causing warping, cracks and overall, compromise your wood floors. 
• For stains, use a soft cloth with your wood floor cleaner and gently scrub the area. 
• Never use excessive force or abrasive materials to clean wood floors

Now you can clean your floors like a pro! 

Wood floors require a higher level of care than tile or laminate flooring but in the end, it's so worth it for that beautiful, real wood look. 

Now that you've learned all the tips and tricks for properly cleaning your wood floor, your floors will be sparkling in no time!