How to Clean Wood Veneer Floors

Wood veneer flooring is engineered with a thin coat of real wood on top.

Installing wood floors brings an old-fashioned elegance to home decor. However, many homeowners have found that maintaining this type of flooring requires too much work and expense. As an alternative, manufacturers developed a wood veneer flooring. This product places a thin layer of wood over a more durable material. This layer, or veneer of wood gives the true look and feel of old-style wood flooring, but adds durability and low maintenance.

Things You'll Need

• Soft-bristle broom or vacuum cleaner with wood floor attachment
• Mop
• Bucket
• Dish soap

Instructions

1. Remove all rugs and items from the floor. Sweep the surface using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a wood floor attachment.

2. Wipe the floor using a damp mop and clear water. Mix a bucket with 2 gallons of water and 2 tbsp. of dish soap to scrub heavily soiled areas. Rinse with a damp mop using clear water.

3. Repeat the process over any areas that retain soil. Let the floor dry for an hour or two before replacing items, or allowing foot traffic.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean with a damp mop and clear water frequently to minimize soil buildup on the wood veneer floor.

• Use gentle cleaners that contain no wax or oils for cleaning this surface.

• Do not use a steam cleaner on wood veneer. It will break down the wood surface and the flooring will eventually peel.

• Do not use cleaning tools that cause scratches to the wood veneer surface.

• Place rugs in areas of heavy traffic to avoid scratches.

References

• Build Direct: Engineered HardWood Flooring Care

Resources

• National Wood Flooring Association: Wood Floor Maintenance