How to Clean Finished Hardwood Floors
Cleaning finished hardwood floors is a challenge. Too much water, and you ruin them. Not enough, and dirt and grime can build up and ruin the finish. If the wood is too soft, the floor can scratch easily. If the wood is too hard, it can crack from poorly-applied finish or weather extremes. Hardwood floors are the most expensive flooring solution, and it makes sense to preserve your investment in quality finished hardwood floors. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Vacuum cleaner or broom
- towels
- white vinegar
- water
- Murphy's Oil Soap
- bucket
- mop
Instructions
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How to Clean Finished Hardwood Floors
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1
Remove all dust, dirt, and debris from the floor by vacuuming or sweeping. Any dust or dirt can be a hindrance when cleaning finished hardwood floors properly.
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2
Check the floor for deep scratches that go down into the bare wood. You want to avoid getting water or cleaning solution on these sections of bare wood. Treat the bare wood with a touch-up of polyurethane and let dry before continuing to Step 3.
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3
Mix 1/4 c. white vinegar and 1 tbsp. Murphy's Oil Soap with 1 gallon of warm water. Combine thoroughly. Do not use too much Murphy's Oil Soap; it can leave a sticky residue if too much is used.
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4
Mop the floor starting with the far left or right corner. Use just the right amount of water. Cover every section of floor twice, and rinse frequently and thoroughly.
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5
Change the mop solution frequently as it gets dirty. With hardwood floors, the finish can easily be scratched by debris such as a small pebble or sand. You want to avoid scratches, so change dirty water often. Leave stubborn stains for last, after you've mopped the entire floor.
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6
Return to stains and scrub gently with a wet towel.
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7
Dry the floor with a towel if excess mop solution was used. You want to make certain water does not leach into scratches.
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8
Wait until the floor has dried completely before laying down area rugs or walking on it.
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Tips & Warnings
If the vinegar scent is too strong, open windows and run an essential oil burner to change the scent.
Do not use too much white vinegar in your solution.
Avoid harsh, expensive floor solutions; they can hurt your finished hardwood floor's surface.
