How to Safely Clean Your Hardwood Floor
Hardwood floors are a timeless, elegant and durable design element that fit into nearly any style of d̩cor. High quality hardwood floors are among the top floor coverings chosen by homeowners Рbut the thought of cleaning them safely can be a bit intimidating. Keeping your hardwood floors looking new and fresh requires a bit of work and maintenance Рand the right cleaning products. Here are some tips to help you keep your hardwood floors looking brand new or bring them back to life.
Prevention is always best.
It is always easier to prevent serious damage to your floors than it is to mend it. These tips will help you prevent dirt from damaging your floors.
Use mats and area rugs at each entrance to capture dirt that might get tracked in. Tiny particles of dirt and sand will damage the finish on your hardwood floors, and those tiny scratches collect dirt so that your floor requires more frequent cleaning. Placing mats or area rugs at each entrance to the room will keep the dirt off your floors and keep them looking new longer.
Do not use rubber-backed or non-ventilated rugs. They can damage your floor. Instead, look for mats made specifically for hardwood floors.
Shake the mats out regularly so that dirt does not work its way through them to damage the floor beneath.
Mop up all spills promptly to avoid damage to the finish or the wood.
Avoid sun damage by using window treatments or awnings, and regularly rotate furniture and rugs so that the entire floor ages evenly.
Put floor protectors on furniture and table legs to avoid damage and wear from the weight of the furniture.
Never drag furniture across floors. Lift and carry to avoid scratches in the surface of the floor.
Avoid walking on your floors in stiletto heels and keep pet nails trimmed to avoid scratching and denting your hardwoods.
