Among the many types of floors, the use of hardwood floors has been chosen by some people who want an elegant look in their homes. Hardwood floors are known for being able to give an earthy and warm nuance to your home. They are also durable and last for decades with proper care. If you are one of those who use hardwood floors in your home, you have to know how to care for your hardwood floors.
Hardwood floors require regular cleaning and maintenance in order to maintain their beauty and durability. Without proper care, they can start to lose their attractive qualities much faster than you expected. Keeping your floors in top shape will save you time, money and frustration down the road. Here are some ways to maintain your hardwood floors.
Clean Daily
Hardwood floors are beautiful, durable and add a touch of elegance to any home. But, like everything else in the home, they need to be maintained regularly to keep them looking their best. The first step is to sweep and clean your hardwood floors regurlarly. It is very important to remove dirt, dust, pet hair and other debris that can scratch or dull their surface. Dirt left to dry on the floor will dull your hardwood quickly. Use a soft bristle broom or a microfiber dust mop pre-treated with a dusting agent to pick up dust and prevent scratches.
Mop
Wood floors need regular mopping to remove the build-up of dirt and grime. Water can dull the surface of hardwoods, so you need to mop regularly and damp (not soaking wet). You can also use a floor-cleaning spray that’s safe for wood, like hardwood floor cleaner spray. Apply it to a small area, and then wipe up any dissolved dirt with your microfiber mop.
Use Vacuum
Vacuuming is one of the best ways to remove grit, dirt and fine dust from your hardwood floors. It also helps prevent micro-scratches from causing permanent damage. Ideally, you should vacuum your hardwood floors at least once per week to keep them looking good. This is because hardwood floors don’t retain as much dust and grime as carpets do. Make sure to choose a vacuum that won’t scratch your floors and use it correctly. Avoid heavy uprights or rotating brush bars, and if possible, look for wheels that won’t mark the wood surface.
Polish Your Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are beautiful additions to any home, and it’s easy to maintain them. The trick is to keep them looking their best by polishing them on a regular basis. A good rule of thumb is to polish every 2-4 months to fill in scratches and protect the wood from over-cleaning. Over-polishing can create a sticky buildup that traps dirt and makes the floor look dull.
Seal
If you want to protect your hardwood floors from stains, spills and water damage, sealing them is an excellent option. This will help avoid unnecessary repairs and costs to restore your flooring’s appearance and value. Hardwood floor coatings are available in a variety of sheens to suit your tastes and your environment. Typically, one or two coats of a quality finish are needed for long-lasting protection against spills and intense wear.