How Do I Clean My Hardwood Floors?
Keep your wood floors looking pristine with our simple cleaning tips. Use a microfiber mop and gentle cleaner to remove dirt while preserving the finish. Avoid excessive water, harsh chemicals, waxes, and shiners to maintain their natural luster. ​
Scroll down to read more detailed "dos and don'ts" when cleaning your hardwood floors!
Daily Dusting
To keep your hardwood floors free of dust and pet hair, use a microfiber mop pad or a Swiffer Sweeper. Microfiber pads are great for trapping particles without scratching the floor, while the Swiffer Sweeper’s dry cloths efficiently pick up dirt and debris, making daily upkeep a breeze. Regular dusting helps prevent build-up that can lead to scratches and dullness. Vacuums specifically designed for hardwood floors also work well for keeping your floors clean and scratch-free.
Spot Cleaning
For everyday spills, immediately wipe the area with a soft, dry cloth to prevent stains and damage. If the spill is sticky, lightly dampen a cloth with a small amount of hardwood floor cleaner to gently clean the spot without saturating the wood. For disinfecting, Clorox wipes can be used safely; they’re convenient for killing germs on hardwood surfaces. Just be sure to avoid leaving any area wet—wipe it quickly and dry it thoroughly to protect the floor's finish. Regularly cleaning up spills and disinfecting when necessary helps maintain your floor's appearance and hygiene without risking damage from excess moisture.
Use The Right Cleaner
For the best results on your hardwood floors, we recommend using Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner. It's an effective and environmentally friendly choice, specifically formulated to clean hardwood surfaces without leaving streaks or residue. The pH-balanced formula ensures that it is gentle on the wood's finish, helping to maintain the floor's natural beauty and longevity. Bona is also Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it has been tested for low chemical emissions, making it safe for homes with children and pets.
If you prefer a DIY approach, a homemade solution of 2oz of white distilled vinegar to 32oz of water with a splash of your favorite essential oil can also be effective. This mixture naturally cuts through dirt and grime, and the essential oil adds a pleasant scent. However, use this solution sparingly, as excessive vinegar can dull the floor's finish over time. Always ensure the cloth or microfiber mop pad is only damp, not wet, to prevent moisture damage.
Products to Avoid
To keep your hardwood floors looking their best, it's important to avoid using certain cleaning products that can damage the finish. Products like Murphy’s Oil Soap, Revivify, Pine-Sol, and any cleaners containing citrus oils, silicon, or ammonia should be avoided. These products can leave a sticky residue or a dulling film on the surface, which not only affects the floor's appearance but can also attract dirt and dust over time. This buildup can also cause problems with adhesion if you decide to recoat your floors in the future.
Stick with pH-balanced cleaners specifically designed for hardwood floors to ensure the longevity and beauty of your flooring.