Situation: You’re hardwood floors are starting to look like they belong back in the forest. Dirt, dust, food & other materials have accumulated. Some may even be harmful to your floors & could scratch them if maintenance doesn’t become some level of a priority. However, you’re in luck! Following these simple tips (some you’ll only have to do once!) you can permanently increase the longevity & look of your hardwood floors.
Here’s How:
1. Sweep wood floors often with a soft, fine bristle broom. for 10 min. / 3 times a week to keep your floors spick and span!
2. Vacuum once a week to remove dirt and sand. Use a soft brush attachment to minimize scratching. Dirt & sand can actually scratch your nice looking floors so make sure to keep this cleaning tip at the top of your list.
3. Since water is one of a wood floors worst enemies, get rid of water right away! Remove wet spills ASAP with soft towels or a wet/dry vacuum, then dry thoroughly. Keep a “hidden cleaning supply” this will ensure that when you see a spill you’ll clean it right there and then without the hassle of going across the house.
4. Use a very dry damp mop when mopping polyurethaned wood floors, since excess water can seep into seams and ruin a wood floor.
5. Consider using carpet runners (with non-skid pads) over wood floors in high traffic areas.
6. Vacuum area rugs and runners often so dirt doesn’t filter down through the weave and scratch the wood underneath.
7. If possible, do not wear heavy shoes or high heels on hardwood floors, as some heels can cause dents. This is especially true in Black Walnut!
8. Never drag furniture or other objects across a wood floor. Instead, clean the floor thoroughly to remove dust and grit, then use “gliding” furniture pads underneath the piece to aid sliding it across the floor.
9. Install floor mats at each entrance so you don’t track in dirt from the bottoms of shoes.
10. Be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations to treat flooring scratches and dents. If an area of the finish is damaged by water, it may be difficult to fix it.
11. Use furniture pads to place under table and chair legs and on the feet of dressers and armoires. They can be purchased at a local hardware store or home center.
12. Some floors may require periodic waxing and buffing. Get recommendations from the manufacturer for the specific procedures for your floor.
Additional FYI’s & Tips:
A. Use area rugs in high traffic areas.
B. Always remove spills promptly. While small drops of water may not harm the floor, be sure not to let excess amounts of water sit on the floor.
C. Find out cleaning and care requirements for your specific floor from the manufacturer.