A Complete Guide — How to Clean, Care, and Maintain Hardwood Floors!

No other flooring can provide warmth, beauty, and value to a home like a hardwood floor. That said, hardwood floors also require proper care to maintain their durability and aesthetic appeal.

If you’ve just installed your new flooring and need some tips to keep it at its best, you’ll find this article quite helpful.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean, care for, and maintain your hardwood floors, ensuring they last a lifetime.

Key Takeaways

• Regular maintenance is essential not just for the visual appeal of hardwood floors but also for their long-term performance and sustainability.
• Maintaining hardwood floors involves regular cleaning, proper care, and periodic maintenances

Table of Contents

• Understanding Your Hardwood Floors
• Weekly Maintenance
• Deep Cleaning Care Measures 
• Periodic Maintenance Addressing
• Damages Let Classic Flooring 
• Breathe New Life to Your Floors

Understanding Your Hardwood Floors

Before diving into maintenance, it's crucial to know the type of hardwood floor finish because the finish, not the wood type, determines how you care for it. Common finishes include surface finishes like polyurethane, which are durable and water-resistant, and penetrating finishes that seep into the wood grains and protect from within, requiring different care techniques.

Weekly Maintenance

1. Sweeping and Dusting

Regular cleaning is key. Use a soft-bristled broom or a microfiber mop to gently sweep or dust the floors. This prevents gritty dirt and particle buildup that can scratch the wood surface.

2. Vacuuming

Weekly vacuuming with a soft brush attachment can help remove dirt from between the planks and in corners where a broom might not reach. Ensure the vacuum is set to the "hard floor" mode to avoid scratching the floor with a rotating brush.

Deep Cleaning

1. Mopping

Use a damp mop with a mild, pH-neutral soap and water solution or a cleaner specifically formulated for hardwood floors. Avoid using excessive water, which can seep into seams and ruin the wood. After mopping, go over the floor with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove any excess moisture.

2. Spot Cleaning

For spills, act quickly to blot them up with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and scrubbing, which can damage the finish.

Care Measures

Here are some routine care and preventative measures to ensure your floor remains in excellent condition.

1. Use Protective Mats —Place mats at entryways to catch dirt and grit from shoes. Opt for natural rubber or felt mats, as rubber-backed mats can discolor wood floors.

2. Furniture Pads—Attach felt pads under the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when pieces are moved around. Check and replace these pads regularly.

3. Control Sun Exposure—Direct sunlight can fade and age wood. Use curtains or blinds to limit sun exposure, or apply a UV-protective coating on the windows.

4. Manage Humidity Levels—Wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity. Maintain a consistent indoor humidity level (between 30% and 50%) to minimize gaps and warping.

Periodic Maintenance

1. Polishing

Polishing the floors every few months can renew and refresh the finish. Use a product compatible with your floor's finish, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

2. Refinishing

Over time, floors might need refinishing, especially if they have deep scratches, discoloration, or dullness. This involves sanding down the surface and applying a new layer of finish. It’s usually recommended every 7-10 years, depending on traffic and wear.

Addressing Damages

1. Scratches

Small scratches can be touched up with a matching wood marker or stain. For deeper scratches, you may need a professional to sand and refinish the area.

2. Water Damage

If a plank gets warped from water, it might need replacing. Consult a professional to address severe damage and ensure a uniform look.

Let Classic Flooring Breathe New Life to Your Floors

Don't let everyday wear and tear dull your hardwood's shine. Trust Classic Flooring to help you maintain hardwood floors of all types and styles. From deep cleaning and polishing to refinishing, we have your floors covered. Schedule a consultation today and step into a home that feels brand new!

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Related Questions

How often should I clean my hardwood floors?

‍Light sweeping or dust mopping should be done several times a week, with vacuuming at least once a week. This helps prevent grit and debris from scratching the surface.

Can I mop hardwood floors with water?

You can use a damp (not wet) mop with a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner or a mild soap solution. Avoid excessive water, as standing moisture can seep into seams and cause warping or damage.

What’s the best way to prevent scratches on hardwood floors?

‍Use felt pads under furniture legs, place mats at entryways, and avoid dragging heavy items across the floor. Regularly check and replace worn pads to keep the floor protected.

When should I call a professional like Classic Flooring for help?

‍If you notice deep scratches, dull or worn finishes, water damage, or warped boards, it’s time to call a professional. Classic Flooring can handle deep cleaning, polishing, refinishing, and repairs to restore your floors’ beauty.