HardWood Floor Cleaning: What You Need to Know

When it comes to flooring, hardwood is a popular choice. It looks beautiful and can last for many years with proper care. However, without regular cleaning and maintenance, your hardwood floors can quickly become scratched and stained. In this blog post, we will discuss hardwood floor cleaning, what you need to know about it, and why it is essential for keeping your floors looking their best!

What Does Moisture Do To Your Hardwood?

One of the biggest enemies of hardwood floors is moisture. When wood gets wet, it can swell and warp. This can lead to cracks and gaps in your flooring and make it more susceptible to scratches and stains. That’s why it’s important to clean up any spills immediately and to avoid using too much water when cleaning your floors.

What Are Some Common Hardwood Floor Cleaners?

There are a variety of cleaners on the market that are designed specifically for hardwood floors. You may want to try a few different ones to see which works best for you. Some common choices include vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda. Just read the labels carefully before purchasing any cleaner, as some can be too harsh for hardwood and may damage the finish.

Why Is Regular Cleaning Important?

Regular cleaning is essential for keeping your hardwood floors looking their best. Not only does it remove dirt, dust, and spills, but it also helps to protect the wood from moisture damage. A good rule of thumb is to sweep or vacuum your floors at least once a week and mop them with a damp cloth or mop monthly.

Understanding The Professional Side Of Hardwood Cleaning:

While hardwood cleaning is not as popular amongst homeowners as cleaning their roof or backyard, it is equally important. Most people don’t consider hardwood clearing a professional job. After all, using a vacuum is hardly a job for professionals. However, getting a professional hardwood cleaner is when the hardwood has absorbed too much moisture and is starting to become a hotspot for mold growth and insects and rodents. In the long run, the excess moisture trapped within the hardwood could lead to the wood rotting from the inside. Not only would this be unappealing to look at but also dangerous as the floor could give in without notice.

A professional hardwood cleaning company will have all the right equipment to deal with excess moisture within the hardwood. They will also have specialized cleaners and solutions unavailable to general consumers. While individual professional hardwood cleaners have their processes and steps when cleaning hardwood, they follow a similar template.

The first step is to sweep or vacuum your floor to remove any surface dirt or debris. Use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to avoid scratching the floor’s surface. Then, you will need to deep clean the floor using a cleaner specifically designed for hardwood floors.

Most hardwood cleaners come in two parts: a pre-cleaner and a finish cleaner. The pre-cleaner is used to break down any tough dirt or stains on the floor, while the finish cleaner restores the floor’s shine.

To use the cleaners, mix them in a bucket according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, dampen a mop in the solution and wring it out well before mopping the floor. Start in one corner of the room and work your way across in small sections until you have covered the entire floor.

Once you have finished cleaning, be sure to rinse off any residual cleaner with clean water. You may need to go over the floor a second time with just water to remove any residue. Finally, allow the floor to air dry before walking on it or replacing any furniture.

Can you DIY Hardwood Cleaning?

The answer to this is not as clear as black and white. If your hardwood is heavily stained or has been neglected for a long time, it’s probably best to leave the cleaning to the professionals. However, if you keep up with regular sweeping and mopping, you should be able to handle the occasional deeper clean on your own. Just be sure to research and use the correct cleaners and tools for the job. If you are trying to DIY clean your hardwood, here is a list of tools you will need and what for.

-Broom and dustpan: For sweeping up any surface dirt or debris.

-Vacuum cleaner: For vacuuming the floor and removing any dirt, dust, or pet hair. Be sure to use the soft brush attachment to avoid scratching the floor.

-Mop: For mopping the floor with the cleaning solution.

-Bucket: For mixing the cleaners.

-Hardwood cleaner: Look for a two-part system that includes a pre-cleaner and finish cleaner. These can be found at most home improvement stores.

-Rag or towel: For wiping up any residual cleaner on the floor after mopping.

-Water: To rinse off any residual cleaner from the floor.

Now that you know the basics of hardwood cleaning, you can decide if it’s something you feel comfortable doing on your own or if you would prefer to hire a professional. Keeping your hardwood floors clean and free of dirt, dust, and stains will help them last longer and look beautiful for years to come.

About The Author