How to Care for Hardwood Floors

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (2 Ratings)

Hardwood floors are durable and add to the beauty of a home. They are fairly easy to maintain if proper care techniques are used to protect them from the daily wear and tear. Here are some simple cleaning steps to use daily to help care for your hardwood floors.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Sweep the floor daily with a soft bristle broom that doesn't scratch the floor. Sand and dirt are potentially damaging to hardwood floors if left unattended.

Step2

Vacuum the floor with only a soft bristle attachment. Do vacuum under rugs and runners as these areas trap dirt which can be damaging to the hardwood floor.

Step3

Avoid wearing shoes on the hardwood floor, especially heels, roller skates or even tennis shoes. They can leave dirt and sand deposits on the floor which may cause scratches.

Step4

Wipe all spills immediately. Do not let a spill sit or it will sip through the floor and warp it if left alone for too long.

Step5

Avoid direct sunlight on your hardwood floor as sunlight may change the color of some hardwood floor finishes. Close your blinds if necessary.

Step6

Put felt protectors under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents when moving furniture. They also help make it easier to move furniture around when sweeping or vacuuming.

Step7

Use manufacturer's recommended products to treat dents or scratches. Consult a professional immediately if you are uncomfortable doing it yourself.

Step8

Damp mop the hardwood floor once or twice a week. Use a manufacturer's recommended cleaning spray that can be purchased at any hardware store.

Step9

Maintain a constant and proper temperature in the home. Check the humidity level according to the weather changes. A recommended indoor humidity level would be at around 40 to 60 percent. A change in weather can cause the hardwood floor to contract or expand.