How to clean your wooden floors

Cleaning a wooden floor is straightforward, but it requires proper techniques to avoid damage.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean your wooden floor:

How to Clean a Wooden Floor

  1. Gather Your Supplies:
    • Soft-bristle broom or dust mop
    • Vacuum cleaner (with a hardwood floor attachment)
    • Microfiber mop or cloth
    • Wood floor cleaner (make sure it’s suitable for your type of finish)
    • Bucket (if using a cleaning solution)
    • Soft towels or drying cloths
  2. Remove Loose Dirt and Debris:
    • Start by sweeping the floor with a soft-bristle broom or using a dust mop to collect dirt, dust, and debris. This step is essential to prevent scratches during mopping.
  3. Vacuum (If Needed):
    • If there’s more significant dirt or debris accumulation, use a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment to thoroughly clean the surface. Make sure it has no beater bar to avoid scratching the wood.
  4. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution:
    • Use a wood floor cleaner that is pH-balanced and safe for your finish.  Avoid using excessive water, as too much moisture can damage wooden floors.
  5. Mop the Floor:
    • Dampen a microfiber mop or cloth with the cleaning solution. It should be just slightly damp—avoid soaking the mop.
    • For a more thorough scrub, spin mops offer a great way to clean without excessive amounts of water.
    • Mop the floor in the direction of the wood grain. Work in small sections, rinsing the mop frequently to avoid spreading dirt.

6. Dry the Floor:
After mopping, you could use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe up any excess moisture. This is important to prevent water damage or warping if you have over moistened the mop.

Additional Tips:

  • Regular Maintenance: Sweep or dust mop regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
  • Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Stay clear of shop based type cleaners with ammonia or vinegar-based cleaners, as they can damage the wood finish.
  • Use Area Rugs: Place rugs or mats at entryways to help reduce dirt and moisture.
  • Use Felt Feet: Felt feet on chairs and all furniture will protect the floor when the items are moved round

By following these steps, you can maintain the beauty and integrity of your wooden floors, ensuring they last for years to come!

Take a look at our shop page to purchase your cleaning supplies!