To clean wooden floors effectively and safely, follow these key steps:
- Start with dry cleaning by sweeping, dusting, or vacuuming (using a vacuum with a soft brush head) to remove dust, dirt, hair, and debris. This prevents scratching from abrasive particles.
- For wet cleaning, use a damp mop with a well-wrung mop head—never soak the floor with water as excess moisture can damage the wood. Use a pH-neutral wood floor cleaner or just water with mild soap. Avoid bleach, vinegar, or abrasive detergents which can dull or damage the finish.
- Mop gently following the grain of the wood and avoid letting water puddle on the floor. Spot clean spills immediately with a soft absorbent cloth to prevent stains.
- For stubborn spots or scuffs, use a damp cloth or gentle scrubbing with baking soda on a damp sponge, and buff dry.
- Regular maintenance includes daily sweeping and dusting, spot cleaning promptly, weekly dry mopping, and occasional damp mopping. Avoid steam cleaners as they can warp or crack wood floors.
- Use felt pads under furniture to prevent scratches and place good quality doormats at entrances to reduce dirt tracked onto floors.
- Allow floors to air dry completely before walking on them.
Following these steps carefully helps maintain the beauty and durability of wooden floors over time.
