How To Clean Hardwood Floors
Cleaning hardwood floors is easy as long as you have the proper tools and a few basic techniques. All in all, they do require some special attention that other floors do not because in many ways they are more easily damaged. The following will cover what supplies will work best for the job, special techniques, and what you always want to keep away from your floors. With a little practice you will soon be able to clean hardwood floors like a professional.
The first step to clean hardwood floors is sweeping them. You will want to use a soft broom with fine bristles that will not be too abrasive on the floor. You can also vacuum them as well; in fact, it is recommended that you do so about twice a week in order to pick up all the sand and dirt that gets left behind when sweeping with a broom. Just make sure that you just a fine brush attachment that will go easy on the finish.
One of the key rules for not only just cleaning hardwood floors, but for keeping them in good condition altogether is to never get them wet. If you should happen to spill something on them by accident, be sure that it is cleaned up as soon as possible. Use a soft, clean cloth or for bigger spills you can use a wet vacuum.
Always make sure that the floor has been completely dried. You can, if need be, use a very lightly damp, dry mop on your floor if it has been treated with a polyurethane finish. You just want to make sure that no water seeps into the wood because it will cause it to expand.
It is also a good idea to use rugs, mats, or carpet runners in areas where there is high traffic. This will help protect them from the wear and tear they would otherwise receive. This also means less work for you down the road, because you will have to clean hardwood floors less often when they are protected. A few other tips to keep in mind for maintenance include:
• Not wearing high heels as they can leave dents.
• Never drag furniture across wood. Make sure that pads are placed on the feet of all furniture if you have to.
• Always follow the directions of the manufacturer when it comes to cleaning hardwood floors or treating scratches and dents.
• Only if recommended by the manufacturer, wax and buff the floor occasionally in order to keep it looking new.
As you can see, there is no real secret to clean hardwood floors. It just takes some careful attention to a few simple rules and you should be fine. And always be sure to keep the cardinal rule of never getting them wet in mind and your floors will last for a lifetime.
