Prefinished hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable choice for any home, but they do require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking their best. Improper cleaning techniques can actually damage the floor’s finish, so it’s important to follow the right steps.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to clean and care for your prefinished hardwood floors.
Table of Contents
Dusting and Vacuuming
The first step in any hardwood floor cleaning routine is regular dusting and vacuuming. This helps remove the day-to-day dirt, dust, and debris that can build up on the surface.
Start by sweeping or using a dry, soft microfiber mop to gently pick up any loose particles on the floor. Go over the entire area, making sure to get into the corners and along the baseboards.
Next, vacuum the floors weekly using the bare floor setting. This will help lift up any embedded dirt that the sweeping missed. Be sure to use a vacuum with soft bristles or a felt-covered floor nozzle to avoid scratching the finish.
Mopping and Cleaning
While regular dusting and vacuuming are important, you’ll also need to do a more thorough cleaning on a monthly basis. This is where mopping comes in.
Use a professional hardwood floor cleaner and a slightly damp microfiber mop to gently clean the floors. Avoid using excessive water, steam mops, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the floor’s finish over time.
When mopping, be sure to:
- Rinse the mop frequently to prevent spreading dirt and grime
- Dry the floor thoroughly after mopping to prevent warping or moisture damage
It’s also a good idea to spot-clean any spills or stains as soon as they happen. This will help prevent them from setting in and becoming more difficult to remove.
Dealing with Stains and Spills
Speaking of stains, let’s talk about how to handle those. Prefinished hardwood floors are generally quite durable, but they can still be susceptible to staining from things like food, oil, ink, wax, or gum.
For food, oil, or ink stains, use a gentle cleaning solution like trisodium phosphate (TSP) and a microfiber cloth. Gently blot the stain, being careful not to rub it in. You can also try using a small amount of rubbing alcohol.
If you have a wax or gum stain, try freezing the area with ice cubes first. This will harden the substance, making it easier to gently scrape off with a plastic knife or scraper. Just be very careful not to damage the floor’s finish.
Read more: How Do I Lay Hardwood Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Professional Cleaning and Maintenance
While regular DIY cleaning is important, it’s also a good idea to have your prefinished hardwood floors professionally cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. This can help extend the life of your floors and keep them looking their absolute best.
Professional hardwood floor cleaners have access to specialized equipment and cleaning solutions that can deep clean and restore the floors in a way that’s difficult to achieve at home. They’ll also be able to identify and address any underlying issues, like scratches or worn spots, before they become bigger problems.
Aim to have your floors professionally cleaned and maintained every 12-18 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer. This will help keep them looking fresh and new for years to come.
Tips for Maintaining Prefinished Hardwood Floors
In addition to regular cleaning, there are a few other things you can do to help maintain the beauty and longevity of your prefinished hardwood floors:
- Use floor mats and area rugs: Place mats at all entryways to help trap dirt and debris before it gets tracked onto the floors. You can also use area rugs in high-traffic zones to protect the finish.
- Avoid excessive moisture: As mentioned earlier, too much water can be damaging to prefinished hardwood floors. Avoid using steam mops or leaving standing water on the floors.
- Rearrange furniture regularly: Moving furniture and rugs around periodically can help prevent permanent indentations or discoloration in the floor’s finish.
- Use felt pads under furniture: Placing felt pads or protectors under the legs of furniture can help prevent scratches and dents.
- Clean up spills immediately: Wipe up any spills as soon as they happen to prevent staining or warping.
- Avoid harsh cleaners: Steer clear of ammonia, bleach, and other harsh chemicals, as these can damage the floor’s finish over time.
By following these simple tips and techniques, you can keep your prefinished hardwood floors looking beautiful and pristine for years to come.
Conclusion
Prefinished hardwood floors are a stunning and durable choice for any home, but they do require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking their best. From daily dusting and vacuuming to monthly mopping and professional deep cleaning, there are a few key steps to follow.
Remember to always use the right cleaning products and techniques to avoid damaging the floor’s finish. With a little bit of care and attention, you can keep your prefinished hardwood floors looking like new for many years.
MKE Bathroom Remodeling in Milwaukee offers expert hardwood flooring installation services, specializing in a wide range of hardwood species like oak, maple, cherry, walnut, bamboo, and cork. They provide eco-friendly options, free consultations, and quotes to help you understand the cost and scope of your project.
