Simple Tips for Maintaining Wooden Floors

Wooden floors are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their elegance, durability, and ability to improve air quality. Despite their robust nature, proper cleaning and upkeep are essential to keep them looking their best over time. This guide provides easy methods to care for your wooden flooring, ensuring they remain shiny and beautiful for years to come.

All flooring types require basic maintenance, including:

Vacuum or dry mop frequently to remove dust and debris

Use minimal water for cleaning finished floors and avoid water on unfinished surfaces

Place doormats at entry points to reduce dirt tracking

Protect furniture with rubber pads to prevent scratches

Avoid walking in shoes on wooden floors to reduce wear

Understanding the two main types of wood finishes—finished and unfinished—is crucial, as their cleaning routines vary.

Finished wooden surfaces

Unfinished wooden surfaces

Cleaning finished wood floors:

Most modern hardwoods have a protective urethane or polyurethane coating, making them resistant to water and stains.

Use a damp mop with gentle cleaning agents like mild detergents or dish soap for routine cleaning.

Ensure the mop is well wrung out to avoid excess moisture and clean along the wood grain with smooth strokes.

Wipe with a soft cloth to remove residue and brighten the floor.

Cleaning unfinished wooden floors:

This matte-finished flooring is not sealed, so avoid water-based cleaning to prevent damage or mold growth.

Apply a specialized floor wax to address dirt and scratches.

Use steel wool gently with wax to buff out stains or scratches, but avoid overuse to prevent discoloration.

Regular, simple maintenance can preserve the natural beauty and shine of your wooden floors for many years.