How to Clean Unsealed Hardwood Floors

Clean unsealed hardwood floors using linseed oil.

Unsealed hardwood floors contain none of the polyurethane coating found in many types of hardwood flooring, giving the floor a more natural, rustic look that keeps the wood itself on display. This unsealed wood must be cleaned regularly just like any other type of wood floor, and when caring for unsealed wood you want to both get rid of buildup and give the wood a gentle oil treatment that keeps it looking its best.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum cleaner Bucket Water Vinegar Mop Linseed oil Cleaning rags

Instructions

1. Vacuum your unsealed hardwood each week; this will pull out any loose buildup.

2. Mix 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1 gallon warm water in a cleaning bucket to clean and disinfect.

3. Dip your mop in the vinegar water and squeeze it out with your hands.

4. Wipe the mop across the unsealed hardwood, re-dipping the mop when necessary. Allow the wood to air dry.

5. Drizzle enough linseed oil onto a cloth to saturate it slightly, and wipe along the grain of the unsealed wood. Continue across your entire floor.

6. Drizzle additional linseed oil onto a cleaning mop to saturate it slightly, wipe across your entire floor for an even application, and let the hardwood air dry.

References

• Good Human: Natural Way to Clean Wood Floors