How to clean hardwood floors the right way

hardwood

Last updated on March 28th, 2024 at 12:29 am

Hardwood flooring has been popular in Australia for many years. Initially, it was considered a luxury and was only used by royalty and the very wealthy. However, as time passed and engineering methods changed, it has become a popular addition in most homes. There’s a good reason for this. All you have to do is take a look at the stunning Herringbone parquetry flooring to appreciate the beauty and style of these floors. The fact that they are very durable is a bonus. However, hardwood does need some care to ensure it stays looking good and lasts for as long as you want it to.

Sweep Regularly

The first step in keeping your hardwood floors clean is to sweep them. It’s advisable to use a microfiber cloth instead of a traditional brush. This material is very effective at picking up dust, it literally attracts the dust to itself. Moving across the floor slowly and consistently will help to ensure all dust and debris are removed. It’s advisable to do this every day.

Mop With A Damp Cloth

At least once a week you’re going to want to take your hardwood cleaning up a level. That means mopping the floor to remove the dirt and grime that is left from feet and other items moving across the floor. The most effective way to do this is with a mop. Use a mixture of 4 parts warm water with a few drops of standard dish soap. Make sure the mop is damp, you’ll want to remove the majority of the water.

You can then do a small section of the floor. Once you’ve done part of the floor you can dry it with a clean cloth or another, dry mop. Then, move on to the next section until the entire floor has been washed. If the floor is particularly dirty you’ll need to change the water part way through.

Add Polish

Hardwood floors usually have a layer of polish on them. This creates a nice shine and protects the wood from spills and other issues. However, the polish will wear down over time. That’s why you should polish the floor at least once every few months. You’ll want to get a hardwood floor polish designed for your style and make of flooring. Follow the instructions to apply the polish and get your hardwood floor looking fantastic.

Repair As Necessary

Hardwood floors are tough and durable. However, they are made of wood and this can be scratched. If you notice scratches or any other damage to the floor you don’t need to panic. This is when you need to sand the affected area of the floor. Sand it down until the scratch has been removed. Doing this will remove the polish from the floor. So, once you have a smooth finish again, you’ll need to reapply a polish finish. This will help the sanded section blend with the rest of the floor and look perfect while extending the life of the floor.

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