Hardwood floors are a beautiful addition to homes and are often preferred by many homeowners for their durability and timeless style. While hardwood floors look and feel great, proper maintenance is essential for keeping them looking their best.
For new homeowners, hardwood floor maintenance can be a daunting task if unfamiliar with how to keep your floors well-maintained. This article will provide an overview of the basic steps to maintain your hardwood flooring so that they stay beautiful for many years to come.
It is important to note that the type of hardwood floors in your home can significantly influence the maintenance routine and the type of care products that will work best. For example, if you have unfinished floors, you will need to make sure that the finish is applied properly to prevent cracking due to moisture.
Preparing Your Floors for Maintenance
Before you begin to clean or perform any maintenance on your hardwood floors, it is important to take precautions necessary to prevent damage. This includes sweeping, dusting, and vacuuming your floors regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch or dull the finish.
It is also important to use floor mats near entrances and inside of doorways to reduce the amount of dirt or potential scratches that could be brought onto the hardwood flooring. Mats with rubber bottoms can also reduce the possibility of slipping on the hardwood floors.
Cleaning Hardwood Floors
In order to keep your hardwood floors looking their best, it is important to clean them regularly but also use the correct cleaning methods. For example, never use a wet mop or steam mop on a hardwood floor, as this can damage the flooring. Instead, a dry dusting mop or a vacuum should be used when cleaning.
In addition, many hardwood floor cleaning products are formulated specifically for hardwood flooring and can help to keep your floors looking their best. Make sure to read the labels on these products and never use a product that is too abrasive or acidic, as this can strip the finish off of the flooring.
It is also important to be careful when moving furniture on hardwood floors, as doing so can cause scratches or dents in the flooring. Make sure to place furniture pads or slip-resistant mats underneath furniture pieces before moving them to avoid this common issue.
Protecting Hardwood Floors
In order to keep your hardwood flooring in top condition, it is also important to protect them against the elements. This includes a few key steps – such as avoiding exposure to moisture and humidity, and protecting them against direct sunlight, which can wear down the protective finish over time.
- Avoid staying barefoot on hardwood floors
- Keep out excess moisture by using window coverings
- Avoid placing potted plants directly on hardwood floors
- Use area rugs or runners in high traffic areas
Conclusion
Hardwood floors can add value and beauty to your home, but they need to be properly maintained in order to keep them looking their best. By following the basic guidelines and tips outlined in this article, your hardwood floors should stay in great condition for many years to come.