6 Tips for Cleaning Your Hardwood Floors Without Damaging Them

If you want your hardwood floors to be clean and shiny, it’s important to know how to do it without damaging them. Over time, dirt, grit, and other debris can make your floors look dull or even worn.

Here are 6 tips to help you keep your hardwood floors looking their best:

1. Avoid using too much water on your floors
Hardwoods are porous, which means that when they come into contact with too much moisture, they can expand and damage them. To prevent this from happening, make sure to use a cleaner that is specially made for wood floors.

2. Protect your floors with rugs and mats

You can protect your hardwood floors from general wear and tear by using rugs or floor mats in high-traffic areas. These mats can also catch specks of grit and other small debris that could scratch your floors.

Likewise, you can protect your floors from scratches and scuffs by using soft furniture pads on chairs, couches, and tables. This will keep these items from leaving deep scratches on your floors, while at the same time providing a barrier between the wood and the rest of your home’s furniture.

3. Keep your floors dust-free

A good way to keep your floors dust-free is to regularly sweep the floor with a Swiffer or broom. You should do this at least once a week, and it can be done more frequently in areas with more frequent traffic like hallways or entryways.

4. Mop your floors with care

It is essential to mop your floors regularly to remove the buildup of dirt and smudges that accumulate over time. This is especially important if you have children or pets. If you do, be sure to use a microfiber mop or steam mop designed for wood flooring.

5. Wipe up spills promptly

Spills can leave behind a sticky, slick surface on your floors, which can quickly trap dirt and dust particles and cause them to become more difficult to remove. If your floor is in a high-traffic area, it’s a good idea to wipe up any spills right away.

6. Keep your hardwoods dust-free

A great way to ensure that your floors remain free from dust is by using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. This will remove a significant amount of dust, which will help to protect your floors from damage.

7. Vacuum your floors daily and use a microfiber cleaning cloth to dry them off afterward

To avoid scratches on your hardwoods, always vacuum with a soft brush. It’s also a good idea to make sure that your vacuum is turned on “hardwood” setting so that the rollers are not rolling over your floor and causing scratches.

8. Apply a sealer and wax to your floors

If you have stained or otherwise damaged hardwoods, be sure to apply a water-resistant sealer to prevent further damage from water. Then, once the sealer is applied, you can clean your floors with a non-toxic and pH-neutral wood cleaner.