How to Clean a Wooden Floor

How to Clean a Wooden Floor

Types of Wooden Floors

Before you begin cleaning your wooden floor, it is important to make the necessary preparations. First, remove any furniture or objects from the floor to create a clear space for cleaning. Then, gather the tools and supplies you’ll need. These include: 

• A soft broom or dust mop
• A bucket 
• A vacuum cleaner with appropriate attachments
• A microfiber mop
• Wood floor cleaner
• A mild dish soap
• Warm water

How to Clean a Hardwood Floor

 Cleaning hardwood floors requires a careful and gentle approach to preserve their beauty and integrity. Remember, it is crucial to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific hardwood flooring and any recommended cleaning products. Follow these steps to effectively clean your hardwood floors:

1. Begin by removing loose dirt and debris from the floor’s surface. You can use a soft-bristle broom, a microfiber dust mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment. Avoid using vacuums with beater bars because they can scratch the wood.

2. For more thorough cleaning, dampen a microfiber mop or cloth with a hardwood floor cleaner specifically designed for your type of finish. 

Alternatively, you can create a homemade solution by mixing a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water. Fill a bucket with warm water and ensure the water isn’t too hot because excessive heat can damage the wood. Add a teaspoon of mild dish soap to the warm water.

3. Wring out the mop or cloth well, ensuring it is only slightly damp, not soaking wet. Gently mop the floor using back-and-forth motions, following the grain of the wood. Pay attention to any spills or stains, giving them a little extra cleaning effort. Avoid leaving standing water on the floor and work in small sections if needed.

4. Once you have cleaned the entire floor, allow it to air dry completely before walking on it or placing any furniture back in place. If needed, you can use fans or open windows to facilitate the drying process.

5. Lastly, for added shine and protection, you can use a wood floor polish or a microfiber cloth to gently buff the surface.

How to Clean Engineered Wood Floors

Cleaning engineered wood floors is similar to cleaning hardwood floors, as both require a gentle and cautious approach to maintain their appearance and durability. Here are the steps to effectively clean your engineered wood floors:

1. Firstly, remove loose dirt and debris from the surface using a soft-bristle broom, a dry microfiber mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. 

 2. Subsequently, for a more thorough clean, dampen a mop or microfiber cloth with a cleaning solution specifically formulated for engineered wood floors, such as Bona Timber Floor Cleaner. Most importantly, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate cleaning solution.

3. Lightly mop the floor, moving in the direction of the wood grain. This helps prevent streaks and ensures even coverage. However, avoid using excessive water as it can seep into the wood and cause damage. In short, make sure the mop or cloth is only slightly damp, and remove any standing water promptly.

4. After cleaning the entire floor, rinse the mop or cloth thoroughly with clean water and wring out any excess moisture. Go over the floor again with the damp mop or cloth to remove any residue or cleaning solution.

5. Finally, use a clean, dry cloth or towel to thoroughly dry the floor. This step is crucial to prevent water damage or warping of the wood.

How to Remove Stains from Wooden Floors

When it comes to removing stains from timber flooring, the key is to act quickly and use the appropriate cleaning techniques. However, it’s not always feasible to address spills immediately, especially in households with active children and pets. 

So, how does one clean a timber floor when it comes to stains? The good news is that you can still tackle stains effectively and restore the beauty of your timber flooring with these simple methods below:

• For liquid stains or fresh spills, use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot the area gently. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain further into the wood.

• For water-based stains, such as food or beverage spills, create a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. 

• For oil-based stains, such as grease or oil spills, use a solvent-based cleaner recommended for hardwood or timber flooring. Most importantly, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate dilution and application method.

• Using a soft cloth or sponge, apply the cleaning solution to the stain. Gently scrub the area in a circular motion, working from the outer edges toward the center. However, be careful not to apply excessive moisture that can damage the wood.

• Once the stain is removed, wipe away any excess moisture.

How to Clean Gaps in Timber Flooring

Wondering how to clean a timber floor with gaps? It may surprise you that the best tool for this process is a toothbrush. 

1. First, dip the toothbrush into a solution of warm water and mild dish soap.  
2. Secondly, gently brush between the gaps in the hardwood to remove dirt and debris. 
3. Lastly, once you’ve finished scrubbing the gaps, dry the area with a microfiber mop or cloth.

Maintaining and Protecting Wooden Floors

Knowing how to clean a wooden floor is essential for maintaining its aesthetic appeal and ensuring its longevity.  But there are also steps you can take to prevent damage and safeguard your wooden floor for years to come.

• Regular Cleaning: Implement a regular cleaning routine to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can scratch the floor’s surface. Sweep or vacuum the floors regularly using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor setting.

• Avoid Excessive Moisture: Wood is sensitive to moisture, so it’s crucial to prevent excessive water exposure. Wipe up spills immediately using a soft cloth or paper towel. 

• Protect from Scratches: Place protective pads or felt protectors under the legs of furniture to prevent scratches when moving or rearranging items. Avoid dragging heavy furniture or sharp objects across the floor. Consider using rugs or mats in high-traffic areas or under furniture to provide an extra layer of protection.

• Control Humidity Levels: Wood floors can expand or contract with changes in humidity, which can lead to warping or gaps between the floorboards. Maintain consistent humidity levels in the room by using a humidifier or dehumidifier, especially in environments with extreme humidity fluctuations.

• Protect from Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and discolouration of wooden floors. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window films to minimise sunlight exposure during peak hours. Consider rotating area rugs or furniture periodically to ensure even exposure.

• Use Proper Cleaning Products: Choose cleaning products specifically formulated for hardwood or timber floors. Avoid abrasive cleaners and cloths and wax-based products (unless coating is oil or wax).

Side notes

While vinegar is a natural cleaning agent, it is not recommended for cleaning wooden floors. This is because the acidity of vinegar can damage the finish and dull the surface of the wood. It is best to use cleaning solutions specifically formulated for wooden floors. 

Similarly, using a steam cleaner on a wooden floor is not recommended. The heat and moisture from the steam can cause damage to the wood, including warping and swelling. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning products and techniques.

Regular Maintenance: Schedule periodic maintenance tasks such as refinishing or resealing the floor to restore its appearance and protect it from wear.