With all the advances in wood flooring technology, cleaning your hardwood flooring has never been easier. While regular sweeping is all the regular maintenance you need to keep your floors debris-free, but it is also necessary to actually clean and maintain the finish on your floors as well. Wood floor cleaning products should be used periodically to keep your floors sparkling and help them last as long as possible.
Damaging floors by using the wrong cleaning products may void warranties, so you should always consult a professional before using products on your hardwood floors. Oil soaps are made from vegetable oil and could leave a film on your floors that will cause the finish to become hazy. You may even need to be sanded to remove the film. Acrylic dressings (like Mop and Glow) or paste or liquid waxes should not be applied to polyurethane surface floors.
Even when you do use the correct products, using the wrong cleaning processes may damage your floors as well. A good rule of thumb is to avoid abrasive action that could slightly dull the finish over time. Instead, it is recommended you use a light, damp application technique.
With regular traffic, eventually comes wear and tear, but there are a few things you can do to limit the abuse and extend the life of your floors. Using throw rugs both indoors and outside doorways will help prevent dirt and other debris from being tracked across your floors. Rugs in places that get extra traffic such as hallways will also prevent scratching. Immediately wiping up spills with a slightly damp towel before they have a chance to soak in, will help prevent damage to the wood or underlayment.
Avoiding walking on your floors in shoes with aggressive tread such as sports cleats or high heels will minimize scratches and dents. Putting felt protectors on the feet of your furniture will help prevent scuffs or scratches from every day use, but if you are moving heavy furniture it is best to lift it completely off the floor instead of sliding it to prevent damage.
Prelude Version 2.1