Every homeowner should know a few tricks for cleaning hardwood floors. This type of flooring is beautiful – but only if you care for it properly. If you’re thinking about installing hardwood floors (or if you’re moving to a Dallas home that already has them), read on for some must-know cleaning tips.
Vacuum Weekly
The most fundamental part of cleaning hardwood floors is keeping them free from dust, pet dander, crumbs, and other typical household grit. The reason? Over time, these things will act like sandpaper and slowly wear through the floor’s finish. Stick to a regular vacuuming schedule to protect your floor’s finish and keep up its appearance. And, hey, if you’re an allergy sufferer, you’ll be doing yourself a favor by keeping up with regular vacuuming. Luckily, pollen concentrations are falling in Dallas.
Use the Appropriate Cleaners
When cleaning hardwood floors, try to get care instructions from the flooring retailer or manufacturer. Many sell their own brand of floor cleaner, so you know it’s safe for your particular floor. Even if you don’t contact the manufacturer, it helps to know the basics. For example, never use water to clean your hardwood floors. The moisture can damage the wood over time. Also, never reach for ammonia or undiluted vinegar as these products can damage your floor’s finish. Paste wax should also be avoided because it can leave a residue on your floor.
Keep It Dry
Part of the upkeep of your hardwood floors is protecting it from any kind of moisture: spills, rain, pet accidents, and so on. Immediately wipe up any moisture you can see, and keep your windows closed if rain is in the forecast. If you have potted plants, be sure to place trays underneath them. Water may seem harmless enough, but it can penetrate your hardwood floor quickly and stain it. And because moisture is a no-no, never use a steam cleaner on wood floors.
Protect High-Traffic Zones
Many homeowners overlook the protection aspect of cleaning hardwood floors. Over time, walking across the same area can wear down the finish on the floor. Look at placing some area rugs on high-traffic zones – think by the front door or stairs – to reduce the wear. But look for rugs without a backing. You want to avoid trapping humidity with a vinyl or rubber backing because this moisture can damage the floor’s finish. Here’s how to choose the best area rug for your space.
When you put in the effort to consistently clean your hardwood floors, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, long-lasting foundation for your home. Want more? Check out this article for eight tips for cleaning hardwood floors.
Image Source: Flickr/Daniel Rothamel
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