How To Best Clean Wood Floors

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping your wood floors looking their best. The best way to clean wood floors depends on the type of finish on the floor. There are different types of wood floor finishes: oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, penetrating oil, and hardwax oil.

Oil-based polyurethane is a durable finish that is resistant to water and wear. Water-based polyurethane is a more environmentally friendly option that is also resistant to water and wear. Penetrating oil is a natural finish that penetrates the wood and provides a matte finish. Hardwax oil is a hybrid finish that combines the durability of polyurethane with the natural look of penetrating oil.

Once you know the type of finish on your wood floor, you can choose the best cleaning method. For oil-based polyurethane and water-based polyurethane finishes, you can use a mild dish soap and water solution. For penetrating oil finishes, you should use a wood cleaner specifically designed for penetrating oil finishes. For hardwax oil finishes, you should use a hardwax oil cleaner.

When cleaning your wood floor, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. These can damage the finish on the floor. You should also avoid using too much water, as this can cause the wood to swell and buckle.

Here are the steps on how to clean wood floors:

Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Mix a cleaning solution according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Dip a mop into the cleaning solution and wring it out so that it is damp but not soaking wet.
Mop the floor in the direction of the wood grain.
Rinse the floor with clean water and dry it with a clean towel.

You should clean your wood floors regularly to keep them looking their best. The frequency of cleaning will depend on the type of finish on the floor and the amount of traffic it receives. For example, a floor with a high-traffic area may need to be cleaned more frequently than a floor in a low-traffic area.

In addition to regular cleaning, you should also deep clean your wood floors once or twice a year. Deep cleaning involves using a stronger cleaning solution and a more thorough cleaning method. Deep cleaning will help to remove any dirt or grime that has built up on the floor over time.

By following these tips, you can keep your wood floors looking their best for years to come.