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Step 1
~~Prep the wood floor for a good mopping~~
Vacuum the hardwood floor to get up any crumbs, dog hairs or, well, small dogs! Use the vacuum hose to get in the corners so that the wood floor is totally clear of any debris. Leaving crumbs or other items on the floor may scratch it in step #2. -
Step 2
~~Mop the wood floor~~
Using a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water (squeeze in a lemon and add bit of alcohol to the mixture for a powerful cleaning solution), mop the wood floor, using a damp mop (NOT sopping wet - you can easily damage a hardwood floor by using too much water). If you're lucky and have a machine to wash a wood floor, such as a Hoover FloorMate or a Swiffer WetJet, you've got an easier job.
Once the floor is mopped, rinse with a damp mop in a bucket of fresh water. If using the Hoover FloorMate, it is not necessary to rinse the floor. -
Step 3
~~Apply a top coat to really shine a wood floor~~
There are many different products on the market to apply a shine to a hardwood floor such as Pledge Wood Floor Cleaner or Bona Hardwood Floor Refreshers. My favorite of all time though (and my house is all shiny wood floors) is Holloway House Quick Shine. Just apply a squirt on the floor, go over with a damp mop and let dry 15 minutes. You'll have a great shine. To really shine that floor up, apply another one or two coats.
