How to Clean Hardwood Floors

How to Clean Hardwood Floors in the Washington Metro Area

Hardwood floors add timeless beauty and charm to any home. However, maintaining their luster and longevity requires proper care and cleaning techniques. Both new and seasoned homeowners should understand the best practices for cleaning and maintaining floors and how proper care can make a significant difference. The team at Elegant Floor Service is here to help residents of the DMV pin down how to clean hardwood floors and keep them beautiful for years to come. Find out how to properly maintain your flooring.

Understanding Hardwood Finishes

Your floors, almost without exception, are finished using oil or water-based polyurethane. The most important maintenance practice is to prevent abrasion caused by dirt and grit that’s routinely trod upon or lodged beneath rugs and mats near entry doors or in traffic paths. Abrasion will dull and gradually erode your floor’s finish. Vacuum or sweep up dirt and grit before it can abrade or dull your floor’s finish.

Essential Tools and Cleaning Supplies

Maintaining your wood floors is a ‘less is more’ proposition.  You are maintaining the finish, not so much the wood. Vacuum or sweep first. In most cases, clear water and a soft rag mop, wrung thoroughly to damp not dripping, is all that’s needed. Never slosh or let water stand on the floor. If you do need a cleaner, use a mild solution of Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner.

Never apply coatings or waxes over your polyurethane finish.  These come in various ‘guises’ – polish, rejuvenator, Mop n’ Glow, Orange Glo, and so on. The instant you apply such products, you’re doomed to maintain THEM and not your floor’s polyurethane finish.

How to Deal With Spills and Stains

Accidents happen, but dealing with spills and stains promptly can prevent long-term damage to your hardwood floors. Follow our tips for avoiding significant staining:

• Act Quickly—Wipe up spills immediately with a soft, dry cloth to prevent liquids from seeping into the wood.
• For Sticky Spills—Dampen the cloth with a little hardwood floor cleaner and gently wipe the area. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads, and make sure your cleaner is intended for polyurethane-finished floors.
• Stubborn Stains—For tougher stains, such as ink or oil, apply a small amount of hardwood floor cleaner to a cloth and gently rub the stain. If necessary, consult a professional for advice on more persistent stains.

Follow Our Preventative Maintenance Tips

The best way to care for a hardwood floor is to avoid spills, abrasion, and scratches in the first place! While wear and tear is inevitable, there is plenty you can do to prevent unnecessary damage. Try these preventative strategies for keeping your hardwood in top shape:

• Use Rugs and Mats—Place rugs and mats in high-traffic areas, near entryways, and under furniture to avoid scratches and wear.
• Attach Felt Pads—Attach felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs, particularly chairs. This goes a long way to preventing scratches when furniture moves about.
• Maintain Humidity Levels—Hardwood floors can expand and contract with changes in humidity. We recommend using a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels (around 40-60%) and lessen warping.
• Schedule Regular Maintenance—Talk to a professional when occasional maintenance or  repairs are needed. Addressing problems early can prevent worsening (and more expensive) issues in the future.

Find Your Perfect Flooring at Elegant Floor Service

Maintaining hardwood floors doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding your floor’s finish, using the right cleaning tools and supplies, and following a regular cleaning routine, you can keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful for years to come. If you have questions about how to care for hardwood floors, don’t hesitate to give Elegant Floor Service a call. We’re here for all your flooring needs! Contact us today.