Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Hardwood in Good Shape

The durability of your hardwood flooring means that with the proper care and maintenance, your floors will last for years to come. You may think that caring for your floors will be a lot of work, but you would be surprised to know that it is actually a very simple cleaning and maintenance routine. Here are some tips and tricks to help keep your floors looking beautiful year after year! 

Tip #1: Immediately clean up spills

Moisture and humidity can cause wood to shrink and swell which can cause damage like warping and bulging. This is why it is very important to clean up spills as quickly as possible, even if you have a water-resistant finish. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean up any spills as soon as they happen, do not use a wet mop or a steam mop. Certain household products like hairspray or non-wood cleaning products, can damage the finish on your floors so you’ll want to clean those up quickly as well. You’ll also want to avoid walking on your hardwood floors with wet shoes.

Tip #2: Clean regularly

Sweep and dust your floors daily, especially if you have pets. This will help prevent dust and dirt from getting into the grains of your wood flooring and between the floor boards. We also recommend vacuuming your hardwood floors once a week. This will help to get mess you missed sweeping and prevent any large debris from scratching the floors over time. Finally, dust mop your hardwood floors with a hard wood floor cleaner monthly, never use a wet mop or a steam mop. Using a dust mop with a specific hard wood cleaner will help to clean and protect your hardwood finish, which helps your floors last longer. 

Tip #3: Use the right cleaning products

It is important to use the right cleaning products when you’re dust mopping your hardwood floors, this will help to prolong the life of your hardwood finish. The finish on your hardwood flooring is the only thing protecting the actual wood from being damaged. Cleaning products that are made for vinyl flooring or laminate flooring may include chemicals that will strip the hardwood finish from the planks. If you don’t have a preferred hardwood cleaning product, or you’re looking for a new product to use, ask us about which wood cleaning kits we recommend! 

Tip #4: Scratch prevention

Scratches in your hardwood flooring can be difficult to fix, but can be easy to prevent. One way to protect your floors from getting scratched is to use furniture pads on your chairs, tables, couches, etc. You can also use area rugs, runners, and doormats in high traffic areas to prevent scratches due to high heels, pet nails, etc. 

Tip #5: Hardwood refinishing

If you start to notice your floors are looking dull or you’re noticing small scratches and dents more, it may be time to have your floors professionally buffed.  If your floors have larger scratches and dents, it may be necessary to have a complete sanding and refinish done. You’ll want to hire a professional flooring company with experience buffing and refinishing hardwood flooring to ensure you get the best results. We recommend getting your floors buffed with a top coat replacement every 7 – 10 years. If you’re looking to have your hardwood floors buffed or refinished, give us a call today!

Hardwood floors are durable and can last up to 60 years with the proper care and maintenance. Following these simple guidelines will help to keep your hardwood floors looking great for years to come. If you have questions about the current condition of your hardwood floors, if you're looking to upgrade to hardwood flooring, Country Flooring Direct is here to help! Give us a call today to schedule your in-home appointment with Country Flooring Direct!