How to Keep a Wooden Floor Clean
Are you looking to transform your wooden floor from a grimy and dull look into a shiny, clean and gorgeous one? Wooden floors are a good addition to the value of your home. However, they can attract dirt fast and will need thorough and proper cleaning from time to time.
Most people use ordinary soap and water, but is that the best option available? We have done the homework for you. The following is a step-by-step guide for you to follow when cleaning various parts of the wooden floor.
Routine Floor Cleaning
By now, you already know that water is wood’s worst enemy. Even when the wooden floor is sealed, do not let water sit. For that reason, use a damp mop instead of a dripping wet one. Work on a small area at a time instead of pouring soapy water in the entire room. Even before using the damp mop, ensure that you sweep off dirt and debris from the surface.
Pour some 4-5 cups of warm water in a basin. Add several drops of dish soap into the water and mix gently to dissolve the soap. You could use this on a wet piece of cloth if you want to scrub while you are on your knees and hands. Otherwise, a mop will come in handy. Once you clean one area, allow it to dry as you move to the next area.
How to Remove Stains from Your Floor
Are there stubborn stains that just won’t go away with soap and water? Consider the type of finishing on your floor before attempting to scrub it off. Older homes are synonymous with a soft oiled finish on the wooden flooring. This makes it easy for stains to penetrate the protective furnish and get in contact with the wood itself.
Newer homes usually come with a hard finish such as urethane. For this reason, they are more stain-resistant. Whichever the case, avoid using steel wool, harsh chemicals or sandpaper. These may get the stains out, but they will leave an abrasion on the surface. Instead, apply bleach on the stubborn stains and allow it to soak for several minutes; then clean with a damp mop.
To remove grease and oil stains, apply dish detergent to break it down. If this does not work, use the finest steel wool available to sand the floor. Afterwards, use the ordinary water and dish soap to clean the surface. While at it, let children and pets stay out of the room. Allow it to dry completely.
Dos and Don’ts When Cleaning Wooden Floors
Use cleaning products that have been recommended by the finisher of your floor. If you are not sure on what to use plain soap and tap water will do. Avoid using products that are too tough on the surface, as this may compromise the quality of the floor and void the warranty. Similarly, alkaline products and straight ammonia may cause unsightly scratches to your investment.
Shun from cleaning with waxes, furniture sprays, and oils. While oil leaves an unwanted residue, furniture sprays cause the floor to be slippery and may pose a health hazard. Wax, on the other hand, takes too much time to apply and also makes it difficult to recoat. You could easily damage the seal of the floor if you scrub it with vinegar or lemon juice.
Read Also:
