The Ultimate Guide: How to Clean Hardwood Floors

The Ultimate Guide: How to Clean Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are not just a beautiful addition to any home; they're an investment that requires proper care to maintain their timeless allure. At Alpine Flooring & Design in Newtown Square, PA, we understand the importance of preserving the beauty and longevity of your hardwood floors. Here's our comprehensive checklist for keeping your hardwood floors in pristine condition.
 

Preventative measures

 
  1. Utilize dirt-trapping mats: Place dirt-trapping mats at all exterior doors and breathable mats inside doorways to prevent grit, salt, chemicals, and moisture from being tracked into your home.

  2. Use felt pads: Attach felt pads to the feet of chairs and tables to prevent scuffing. Regularly clean these pads to avoid embedded grit and replace worn ones promptly.

  3. Move heavy furniture carefully: Avoid dragging heavy furniture across hardwood floors. Use furniture sliders or carry heavy items to prevent scratches.

  4. High-traffic areas: Consider using area rugs or runners in high-traffic areas, but allow newly refinished floors to cure for 7 days before placing rugs down.
     

Cleaning Tips

 
  1. Promptly wipe up spills: Use a soft dry cloth or paper towel to wipe up spills promptly. For sticky spills, use a slightly moistened cloth and dry thoroughly.

  2. Avoid wax or oil residue: Never use products that leave a wax or oil residue on hardwood floors, as they can make refinishing more difficult.

  3. Choose the right vacuum: Use vacuum cleaners with settings for hard surfaces and turn off beater bars/brushes to prevent damage.

  4. Avoid steam cleaners:: Do not use steam cleaners on hardwood floors, as they can irreversibly damage wood fibers.

  5. Protect from uv light: Move area rugs occasionally and shade large windows to prevent uneven color changes from UV light exposure.

  6. Select the right rug pads: Use high-quality rug pads that provide proper support and protection for your hardwood floors.

  7. Trim pet nails: Keep your pets' nails trimmed to prevent scratches, and regularly clean their paws to avoid tracking dirt onto the floors.

  8. Control humidity: Maintain relative humidity levels between 35% - 50% to minimize seasonal movement in wood. Use appropriate humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed.

  9. Professional cleaning: Periodically clean your hardwood floors with professional hardwood floor cleaners like Bona or Bruce.

  10. Provide Recommended Cleaners: Control the floor cleaning products used in your home by providing recommended cleaners to your cleaning service.
     

Preserve Your Hardwood Floors with Alpine Flooring & Design

 

For over 25 years, Alpine Flooring & Design has been committed to providing quality products and unmatched service to homeowners in Newtown Square, PA, and beyond. Trust us to help you keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful for years to come.
 

Elevate your home with the timeless beauty of hardwood floors. Visit Alpine Flooring & Design today!