If you’re wondering how to care for wood floors, you’ve come to the right place. There are a few simple ways to keep your floors clean. First, always protect your floors with area rugs and keep them free of dust. Second, be sure to avoid using ammonia or cleaning products with vinegar. Here are some additional tips to help you take better care of your wood floors. You’ll be amazed at how much difference these small changes can make in the longevity and appearance of your home.
Protecting wood floors with area rugs
While area rugs provide a soft, comfortable surface beneath your feet, there are several things you need to know before you start placing a rug on your floor. First, you must protect your hardwood floors from scuffs and scratches by using a rug pad. Rug pads are great for hard wood floors because they prevent your rug from sliding and add extra cushion. They also protect your floor from dirt and sand that may be settling through the rug. These mats may also extend the life of the rug by preventing your floor from dulling from constant foot traffic.
The second tip to protecting wood floors with area rugs is to avoid Velcro-style fasteners. The adhesive-backed Velcro straps can cause the carpet to shift and loosen its fibers. If your floor is dark or glossy, you can choose heavy-duty Velcro fasteners. A good rule of thumb is to use a rug pad with rubber backing. If you have a light-colored hardwood floor, you can use a rug pad made of synthetic material.
Keeping them dust free
If you have hardwood or laminate floors in your home, keeping them dust free can be challenging. Keeping them dust free is a top priority, and following these tips will help keep them pristine. The first step is to keep your furniture and other surfaces clean. Dust accumulates around items. To prevent this, use rubber gloves when wiping furniture and other wood surfaces. While it may sound like an obvious step, it will help prevent a lot of dust from collecting on your floors.
You can clean your hardwood floors by removing abrasive dirt particles that collect in high-traffic areas. You can also use door mats and shoe racks to prevent dirt and other debris from tracking inside. When cleaning wood floors, do not ignore sticky spills. Fresh messes are easier to clean up than stale messes. This will also help prevent secondary problems. When you use a vacuum, remember to change the filter frequently.
Cleaning with vinegar
If you have a wood floor, you may be wondering whether vinegar can be used to clean it. Wood floors are susceptible to water spots and stains caused by condensation from the air. Vinegar is an effective way to remove these water spots. You should use a solution of half cup white vinegar and one gallon of warm water. Mix the two and use a damp cloth to wipe down the floor. Remember to use gloves when handling ammonia.
When it comes to cleaning wood floors, white vinegar is your best bet. The higher acid content makes this an excellent choice for wood floors. Red wine and balsamic vinegars are not appropriate for cleaning wood floors. The vinegar mixture should be used on a weekly basis, and you should use a mild solution of the two to keep your floors looking as clean as possible. However, if you don’t have white vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar instead.
Avoiding ammonia
Cleaning with ammonia is never a good idea for your wood floors. This pungent chemical will ruin the finish and can even bleach the surface. Ammonia is a strong acid that will wear away the polyurethane finish on your wood floors. To get rid of stubborn stains, use a neutral pH cleaner specifically formulated for wood floors. Ammonia is another old-school household cleaner you should avoid. Ammonia has a pH around 11, which is harsh for the finish. It can also discolor the finish over time.
Another common mistake to avoid when caring for wood floors is the use of steam mops. Steam mops can cause damage to the coating, so be sure to use a microfiber cloth to collect dust. Never use a broom that’s abrasive or too soft. Also, don’t use steel wool brushes, as they may scratch the floor. Use a microfiber cloth to sweep or vacuum the floors instead. Avoid wet mops and vacuum cleaners.
Refinishing wood floors
If your floor is in need of a new finish, consider refinishing it. This process involves sanding the topmost layer of your floor and applying a new coat of stain or lacquer. You can either do the refinishing yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. However, it is a good idea to test a small area first before refinishing the whole floor.
There are two types of polyurethanes, oil-based and water-based. Both are equally effective, but water-based products are harder to apply. You can also use a high-quality brush for the process. Oil-based products are generally harder to clean and can stain hardwood floors. You should use a mask when applying oil-based polyurethane, since they can contain hazardous fumes. Make sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions on how to apply polyurethane before starting the job.
