Best Ways to Look After Your Wooden Floor

Best Ways to Look After Your Wooden Floor Wooden floors are a timeless addition to any home, offering a blend of sophistication and warmth. However, to keep them looking their best, proper care and maintenance are paramount. Whether your floor features a lacquer finish, hard wax oil, or another treatment, here's an in-depth exploration of the best practices to ensure its longevity and beauty.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance:

Sweep and Vacuum: To begin with, you should regularly sweep or vacuum your wooden floors using a soft-bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner with soft head settings. This prevents the accumulation of grime, dust, and grit that can scratch the surface and damage the finish.
Immediate Spill Clean-up: It is important to remember to address spills promptly. This will prevent potential stains onto the flooring and will also eliminate the risks of moisture penetrating the wood. Moreover, that could cause potential damage of the floor. Use a slightly damp cloth followed by a dry towel to blot up the spill and avoid staining or warping.
Gentle Damp Mopping: Periodically, use a well-wrung mop dampened with a specialized wood floor cleaner to remove grime without saturating the wood. In addition, you should avoid excessive water, as it can lead to warping and damage. Always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for the best results.
Appropriate floor cleaning product: When selecting cleaning products, steer clear of harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and ammonia-based solutions. They can strip the finish and affect the wood underneath. Instead, opt for cleaners specifically formulated for wooden floors to ensure gentle yet effective care.
Cleaning Routines: Incorporate regular sweeping or vacuuming routine to eliminate dust, dirt, and debris that can dull the floor's appearance over time. In the modern’s smart society, this may easily be scheduled by having dedicated robot vacuum cleaner.
Avoid Dragging Heavy Objects: When moving furniture, lift it instead of dragging it across the floor. Felt protector pads under furniture legs can help prevent scratches.
Remove Footwear: Encourage family members and guests to remove their footwear before walking on the wooden floor.
Appropriate door mat: If you are entering with shoes at the property, make sure to install appropriate door mat at the entrance. This will prevent bringing of small particles and dirt, which could potentially damage your wooden flooring.

Understanding Different Wood Floor Finishes:

Lacquer Finish:
- Some wooden floors are coated with polyurethane or water-based lacquer finishes. This creates a thin film onto the wood. In addition, these finishes make the flooring durable and resistant to stains and spills.
- Use a floor mop and specialized floor spray for routine cleaning.
- Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues.
Oil or Wax Finish:
- Some other wooden floors have an oil or wax finish. Hard wax oil penetrates the wood fibres, enhancing its natural beauty while providing protection against wear and tear.
- Using of mop and specialized floor spray for routine cleaning is also recommended for this type of floor finishes.
- For these floors:
  - Avoid excessive water exposure.
  - Use specialized wood floor cleaners for buffing.
  - Periodically re-coat with oil or wax to maintain the protective layer and revive the floor's sheen.

Cleaning Products and Tools:

Squeezable Floor Mop: Use a mop that minimizes water retention. We recommend using well wrung microfiber flat mop
Vacuum Cleaner with Soft Head Settings: Avoid vacuum heads that can scratch the floor.
Specialized Wood Floor Cleaners: Choose products specifically designed for wooden floors. There are many brands available on the market, yet among the best ones, specifically designed for cleaning of wooden floors are Bona, Blanchon, Kahrs, as well as some others.
Soft Cleaning Cloths: Ideal for buffing oiled or waxed floors.
Deep Cleaning Product: Use this annually for thorough cleaning. Make sure to stick with the manufacturer’s recommendation and use suitable products.

What to Avoid:

Steam Cleaners: Important to remember is that, while steam cleaners are convenient for various flooring types, they're generally unsuitable for wooden floors. In addition, the high heat and moisture associated with steam cleaning can compromise the wood's integrity and damage protective finishes, leading to issues like warping or discoloration. It's best to exercise caution and refrain from steam cleaning wooden floors altogether
Oils or Waxes on Unnecessary Floors: Applying oils or waxes to floors that don’t need them can create a slippery surface. Application of hard wax oil too frequently can lead to oil finish build up, or glaze on the surface of the flooring. On the other hand, if you are not sure about the type of the existing finish, you better refrain to apply general finish rejuvenator, as it may not be suitable for your particular flooring and could have the opposite effect. Always consult with professional.
Hard-Headed Vacuum Cleaners: Opt for soft-headed vacuums to prevent scratches. Vacuuming or hoovering wooden floors can be safe and effective with the right approach. The vacuum cleaner should be equipped with suitable attachments and avoid overly abrasive brushes to prevent scratching. Regular vacuuming helps keep dirt and grit at bay, preserving the floor's appearance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the care and maintenance of your wooden floor is key to preserving its timeless appeal and durability. Indeed, by incorporating these informed techniques, including regular cleaning, proper product selection, and an understanding of your floor's specific finish, you can enjoy the enduring beauty of your wooden flooring for years to come.

Luxury Wood Flooring remains at your disposal for friendly advise and professional wood flooring maintenance and renovation service.

Remember, proper care ensures your wooden floor remains beautiful and stands the test of time. Happy floor maintenance!