How to Clean Polyurethene Hardwood Floors
A polyurethane finish gives an added protective element to hardwood floors, extending the floor life by keeping the area free of scratches, scuffs and other imperfections that can often develop on unfinished hardwood. You can easily clean floors with this polyurethane coating by using a few inexpensive ingredients that are most likely already in the kitchen pantry. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1/4 cup liquid dish soap
- 1 gallon water
- Bucket
- Mop
Instructions
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Making the Cleaner
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1
Add 1 gallon of warm water to a cleaning bucket. This is enough to clean an average-sized room, so use more or less depending on the size of the flooring that needs cleaned.
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2
Pour four squirts of liquid dish detergent into the bucket, which measures as about 1/4 cup. Stir the water to combine ingredients, and create soap suds.
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3
To disinfect floors, add 1 cup of distilled white vinegar to the soapy water solution. This should be used every few cleanings, as the floor accumulates bacteria and other germs that can be harmful to the family.
Cleaning the Floors
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4
Place the cleaning mop in the bucket, and then pull it out of the solution. Wringe out any excess water. Hardwood floors are best cleaned with as little water as possible to prevent over-saturation.
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5
Mop the floors as you normally would, making sure to also get into the cracks and crevices in the corners of rooms and in or around cabinetry or other furniture.
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6
Leave floors to air dry, or use a dry, clean mop to absorb the remaining moisture that may still be on the flooring. This step isn't required, but will speed up the drying process.
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Tips & Warnings
Dusting weekly or bi-weekly is often enough to keep the polyurethane finish shining bright. Use a soft dust mop designed for cleaning hardwood floors, and dust regularly to collect dirt and buildup as it accumulates.
