Having hardwood floors adds warmth and elegance to any home, but they need careful maintenance to stay looking their best. Many common cleaning methods can actually harm hardwood over time. Let’s go over a few cleaning mistakes to avoid, so you can keep your hardwood floors clean for years.
1. Using Too Much Water
Excess water can be one of the most damaging things for hardwood floors. Unlike tile or vinyl, hardwood absorbs water, which can cause warping, swelling, and even stains.
Solution:
When cleaning hardwood floors, avoid soaking the surface. Instead, use a damp microfiber cloth or mop that’s been thoroughly wrung out. Lightly mist the surface if needed, but avoid pooling water on the wood.
2. Choosing Harsh Cleaners
Cleaners with bleach, ammonia, or strong chemicals can strip the protective finish, exposing the wood to damage and making it more vulnerable to stains and wear.
Solution:
When cleaning hardwood floors, use products specifically designed for hardwood or consult with a flooring expert to find safe options. A gentle, pH-neutral cleaner is best for preserving the floor’s finish.
3. Skipping Regular Dusting
Dust and debris can act like sandpaper, scratching your hardwood’s surface over time. Regular dusting keeps these particles from dulling the finish and damaging the floor.
Solution:
Dust or sweep daily with a soft-bristled broom or dry microfiber cloth to prevent particles from scratching your floors. Regular dusting is essential for cleaning hardwood floors and preventing scratches.
4. Using the Wrong Vacuum Attachment
Vacuuming is helpful, but using the wrong attachments can cause scratching. Rotating brush attachments, often used for carpets, are too harsh for hardwood.
Solution:
When vacuuming as part of cleaning hardwood floors, use a hard floor setting or attachment on your vacuum to avoid scratches while removing dirt and dust effectively.
5. Ignoring Spills
Letting spills sit on hardwood can lead to staining and potential water damage. Liquids should never be allowed to soak into the wood.
Solution:
Clean spills immediately with a soft, dry cloth. For sticky spills, use a damp cloth to wipe up any residue, and follow up by drying the area thoroughly. Quick spill cleanup is crucial when cleaning hardwood floors.
6. Applying Wax or Oil on Polyurethane Finishes
While wax can add shine, it can cause issues if your hardwood has a polyurethane finish, leading to a sticky buildup that’s difficult to clean.
Solution:
If you’re cleaning hardwood floors with a polyurethane finish, avoid wax or oil. Polyurethane-finished floors don’t need additional treatments; stick to recommended cleaners for this type of finish.
7. Forgetting Protective Pads for Furniture
Furniture legs without protective pads can easily scratch or dent hardwood, especially when moved or shifted.
Solution:
Add felt or rubber pads under all furniture legs. These inexpensive pads can prevent dents and scratches and are easy to replace as needed. This small step goes a long way in preserving your hardwood while you’re cleaning hardwood floors.
8. Using Steam Mops
Steam mops can damage hardwood floors due to the high heat and moisture, which can cause warping and cloudiness.
Solution:
When cleaning hardwood floors, skip the steam mop and stick with dry or lightly damp cleaning methods to avoid excess moisture exposure. Steam is not hardwood-friendly and can lead to long-term damage.
Why Trust The Carpet Guys for Your Hardwood Flooring Needs?
The Carpet Guys offer more than just hardwood installation; we provide expert advice on maintaining and cleaning hardwood floors to help them last. Here’s why customers choose us:
- Knowledgeable Team: Our team provides recommendations tailored to your flooring type.
- Quality Selection: We offer a variety of hardwood flooring products built to last.
- Professional Installation: Professional flooring installation ensures durability and beauty.
- Lifetime Installation Warranty: Enjoy peace of mind with our lifetime installation warranty on installations.
- Ongoing Support: From selection to maintenance, we’re here for you every step of the way.
Contact Us for Beautiful, Lasting Floors
Considering new hardwood floors or need help with care? Call The Carpet Guys at 855-4-MY-GUYS for a free in-home estimate. Let us help you achieve long-lasting, beautiful hardwood floors with expert advice on cleaning hardwood floors and maintenance.
