How To Clean And Maintain Hardwood Flooring The Proper Way
Cleaning hardwood floors can be a daunting task, but with the proper knowledge and tools, it can be an easy process. So if you need more information on this matter, we invite you to read further as we’re going to provide some tips on how to clean the maintain hardwood flooring the proper way in today’s article.
The Basic Method Of Cleaning Hardwood Floors
The first step is to gather your supplies. You will need a broom, dust mop, wet mop, bucket, towel, cleaning solution, and a vacuum cleaner. Once you have all your supplies, you are ready to begin.
You start the cleaning process by sweeping the floor with a broom. This will remove any dirt or debris that is on the surface of your hardwood flooring. Be sure to get into all the corners and crevices as much as possible. Once you have swept the floor, you can then use the dust mop. This will remove any remaining dirt on the floor.
Next, you will need to fill your bucket with warm water and the cleaning solution. The ratio of water and cleaning solution will depend on the type of cleaner you are using. Follow the instructions as indicated in the product bottle. Once you have mixed the solution, dip your wet mop into it and wring it out. You do not want the mop to be too wet, as this can damage your floor.
Begin mopping the floor, working in small sections at a time. Be sure to get into all the corners. Then, take a clean towel and dry the floor. This will remove any residual moisture and prevent your floor from being soaked and damaged.
As for cleaning the crevices of your hardwood floors, you should use a vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool attachment. Make sure that you have a vacuum cleaner that is specifically designed for hardwood floors. Hardwood floor vacuums typically have a brush attachment that can be turned off when not in use. When you vacuum your hardwood floors, make sure to go over the surface several times in order to pick up as much dirt and debris as possible.
Now that you know how to clean hardwood floors, it is important to also maintain them. The best way to do this is by vacuuming regularly and avoid walking on the floor with shoes that could damage the finish of the surface. If you spill something on the floor, be sure to clean it up immediately. These simple tips will help keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful for years to come.
Does Hardwood Floors Require Waxing
Yes, hardwood floors do require waxing in order to maintain their sheen and protect them from scratches and other blemishes. You can use a commercial wax that you can buy from a local grocery store. Just follow the instructions for the type of hardwood flooring you have, as there are different types of wax designs for shining hardwood floors.
If you’re using commercial wax, follow the specific instructions on the product label. In general, you’ll want to apply the wax with a clean cloth in small sections, then buff it out with a dry cloth. Be sure to let the wax dry completely before walking on the floor or replacing the furniture back to its place.
You can also make your own wax using natural ingredients. To make your own wax, start by heating some beeswax in double boiler. Once the beeswax has melted, add some olive oil and stir until the 2 ingredients are combined. Then, apply the wax to your hardwood floor with a clean cloth, suing circular motions to spread it evenly. Let the wax dry for about an hour before buffing it with a clean cloth or a vacuum cleaner.
What Type Of Products Are Recommended For Cleaning And Maintaining Hardwood Floors
There are a variety of products that can be used to clean and maintain hardwood floors. Some popular choices include vinegar and water, mineral spirits, Murphy’s Oil Soap, and Bona Kemi Floor Cleaner. And as mentioned, it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific product before using it.
Vinegar and water mix is a great choice for cleaning hardwood floors because it is inexpensive and effective. However, too much vinegar can damage the floor’s finish. On the other hand, mineral spirits are also recommended because they are less likely to damage the finish than vinegar and water, but they can be more expensive.
Murphy’s Oil Soap is also a popular choice because it is gentle and effective. While Bone Kemi Floor Cleaner is safe for all types of hardwood floors.
Additionally, when it comes to protecting and preserving your hardwood floors, Minwax Polyurethane is a trusted brand. It provides a beautiful finish while also safeguarding your floors from scratches, stains, and other common damage. Applying Minwax Polyurethane is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps.
To get started, you’ll need to purchase a can of Minwax Polyurethane in the desired finish (gloss, semi-gloss, or satin). Read the instructions on the label to familiarize yourself with the product. Next, clear the area where you’ll be working and make sure it’s free of dust and debris. Once the area is prepped, open the can of Polyurethane and stir it gently with a stir stick.
Now you’re ready to apply the Polyurethane. Using a clean, lint-free cloth, apply a thin, even coat to the hardwood floor. Be sure to work in small sections and avoid puddling the product on the floor. Once you’ve applied the Polyurethane, let it dry for the amount of time specified on the label. Once it’s dry, you can apply a second coat if desired.
After the final coat has dried, you’ll need to wait 24 hours before walking on the floor or placing the furniture back in the room. Once that time has elapsed, your hardwood floors will be protected and look beautifully attractive for a long time.
How Often Should You Clean Your Hardwood Floors
How often you must clean your hardwood floors depends on a few factors: the type of wood used, the amount of traffic it gets, and whether or not you have pets.
In general, you should clean your hardwood floors at least once a month, but if they get a lot of traffic or if your pets are prone to accidents, you may need to clean them more often.
Conclusion
With proper care, your hardwood floors will last for many years. Follow these tips and you will enjoy beautiful, healthy floors starting today! If you’re looking for quality hardwood floors in California, you can check out this link to learn more.