How to Clean Solid & Engineered Hardwood Floors

How to Clean Solid & Engineered Hardwood Floors

by Shipping Floors | Cleaning, Engineered Hardwood, Hardwood Flooring

After installing your solid or engineered hardwood floor, the next step is ensuring it enjoys a long and beautiful life. Floor care and maintenance are essential to protect your investment and keep your floors looking stunning for years to come. In this article, you’ll learn practical tips for cleaning and maintaining your hardwood floors to perfection.

Follow Manufacturer Recommendations

Every flooring manufacturer provides specific care instructions for their products. Following these recommendations is the best strategy to preserve the beauty and finish of your hardwood floors. You can typically find these instructions on the box your flooring came in or on the manufacturer’s website.

At Shipping Floors, we provide a range of cleaning and maintenance products approved by leading manufacturers. With the right tools and knowledge, keeping your floors pristine has never been easier.

Tips for Keeping Hardwood Floors Looking New

Here are four universal tips to ensure your hardwood floors remain clean and beautiful:

1. Avoid Excess Moisture: Never use a steam cleaner or wet mop on hardwood flooring. Moisture is the enemy of wood and can damage its finish and structure over time.

2. Protect Against Scratches: Use felt pads under furniture legs and place floor protectors beneath heavy appliances to prevent scratches and wear.

3. Sweep Regularly: Basic cleaning involves sweeping your floors with a soft-bristle broom or using a vacuum cleaner without a spinning brush. This removes dust and debris without damaging the finish.

4. Use Approved Cleaners: For deeper cleaning, use spray hardwood floor cleaners like Bona Professional Hardwood Floor Cleaner or Basic Coatings Squeaky Floor Cleaner. Spray the cleaner lightly and wipe it off with a microfiber mop or terry cloth. Be careful not to overuse cleaning products, as this can cause a temporary haze.

Reviving Worn Hardwood Floors

Over time, your hardwood floors may show signs of wear. Here are three solutions to rejuvenate their appearance:

1. Apply a Urethane Dressing: Products like Bona Refresher or Basic Coatings Refinisher can be applied by homeowners to revive the finish and fill small surface scratches.

2. Buff and Recoat: Hiring a professional to buff and recoat your floor will enhance durability. However, this method may not work on all floors.

3. Re-sand and Recoat: For severe wear or contamination, a complete re-sanding and recoating by a professional contractor is the best option.

Conclusion

Maintaining the beauty and longevity of your hardwood floors requires consistent care and attention. Avoid moisture, sweep regularly, and use manufacturer-approved cleaners like Bona Professional Hardwood Floor Cleaner for a polished finish. Protect your floors with felt pads and floor protectors to prevent unnecessary damage.

When signs of wear appear, consider urethane dressings or professional services to restore the finish. By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure your hardwood floors remain a beautiful feature of your home for years to come. Visit Shipping Floors today to explore our range of cleaning products and floor care solutions!