Hardwood floors can be one of the prettiest types of flooring when done right. Whether it is real wood or a laminate look alike. Knowing how to clean them can be a difference between beautiful flooring and run down flooring. The easiest type of cleaning is not really hardwood cleaning, at all. Engineered lumber and laminate flooring were created to have the appearance of wood (and in the case of engineered products, a surface of genuine wood) without all of natural hardwood’s complications. Here are 3 tips from Elite Steamer to help make sure your hardwood flooring in your home is cleaned properly:
1) Sweep your floors every other day if not everyday. Use a dust mop or vacuum to remove dirt, dust, pet hair and other debris that could scratch the floor. A vacuum with a beater bar attachment could damage the surface of the floor. Use the floor-brush attachment. Depending on traffic and the number of pets and children you have, you’ll need to do this at least once a week. Dust mopping won’t remove the dirt and grime that build up over time. For periodic deep cleaning, you’ll need to use a liquid cleaner.
2) When using substances, be very picky on which you use. Do not use oils, waxes or furniture sprays. Oil leaves a residue, furniture spray creates a slippery surface and wax takes time to apply and makes re-coating difficult. Don't use straight ammonia, alkaline products or abrasive cleaners. They'll dull or scratch the finish.
3) Relying on lemon juice or a vinegar-and-water solution to clean hardwood floors at least not in large quantities, can damage the floor's seal. Vinegar can dull certain hardwood flooring finishes if used too much. Unsealed wood floors are different from finished hardwood floors because water can be easily absorbed through the wood, having a greater impact on the life and condition of the flooring.