How to Reduce Slips on Wood Floors

Floor waxes and high-gloss polyurethane finishes may create unsafe conditions.

Hardwood floors add beauty and warmth to your home and are simple to maintain and clean. Newer floors are usually finished with polyurethane or an acid cure. These floors are naturally durable and need no wax. Older floors benefit from an application of wax at least annually. Improperly applied waxes can make wood floors slippery and unsafe, according to Michigan State University Extension website. Buffing them with an electric floor buffer improves the look of waxed floors and makes them safer.

Things You'll Need

• 1 quart vinegar
• 1 quart warm water
• Bucket
• Microfiber or terry mop

Instructions

1. Mix vinegar and water in a bucket. Soak the mop in the bucket and wring it out thoroughly until it is damp dry.

2. Mop the entire floor, starting in one corner and working backward. The vinegar will remove built-up wax, reducing slickness. Avoid overwetting wood floors. Water can cause wood floors to swell or warp.

3. Allow the floor to air dry. If it is still slick, mop the floor with vinegar and water again.

4. Place throw rugs in high-traffic areas where falls are more likely.

5. Wear shoes or socks with no-skid soles to reduce your chance of slipping on wood floors.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use wax or paste on a wood floor finished with polyurethane. Instead, use a commercial wood cleaner.

• Ask a professional hardwood floor installer about wire brush finishes. These finishes leave a slightly rough surface on the wood, making it less slick.

References

• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Keeping It Clean: Tips on Cleaning Floors
• Michigan State University Extension: Waxing Wood Floors
• National Floors Direct: How to Take Care of Slippery Hardwood Flooring

Resources

• Utah State University Cooperative Extension: Selecting Wood Flooring