Hardwood flooring is often the go-to choice for homeowners due to its elegance, sophistication and timeless finish that will last decades if looked after properly. Although wooden floors are reasonably hardy, it is still incredibly important to care for and protect your flooring if you want it to last you a lifetime. In today’s article, we have a look at a complete guide to maintaining wooden floors, so read on to find out more!
1. Step Up Your Cleaning Routine
Cleaning your wooden floors is somewhat of an art and only requires a few easy steps to ensure you aren’t damaging your floorboards. The best way to go about your cleaning routine is to start off by sweeping or dusting your floors. You can also use a vacuum cleaner (always recommended), but be sure to have the right attachment on your hose in order to prevent scuff marks or scratches from forming.
Once you have removed all the debris from your floor, all you have to do is whip out some hard floor cleaner and either add it to water to create the perfect mopping solution or simply add your cleaner to your steam cleaner/mop. After mopping, allow your floors to dry thoroughly with the help of your air conditioner or a ceiling fan.
2. Prevention Is Better Than Cure
You probably don’t want to hear this, but prevention is better than cure, and being careful is just part of the responsibility you take on when you choose hardwood flooring. Whenever possible, we always recommend avoiding spills and stains to the best of your ability. Of course, life happens and things go awry, but doing your best to try and reduce disaster as much as possible is key in maintaining your flooring and keeping it looking pristine for as long as possible.
A great way to do this is to incorporate rugs into your home decor. Not only will a rug make your home feel cosier, but it will also reduce the chances of food, drink or other substances from landing on those timbre floorboards. When disaster does strike, it is important that you clean up stains and spills as quickly as possible to reduce the chances of permanent staining.
3. Use Furniture Pads
Even the toughest of wooden floors can end up badly scratched by furniture, which is why using furniture pads is always a good idea. While some scratches are inevitable, others are definitely preventable. Furniture pads are the perfect solution that you can use under tables, sofas, TV units and other items that could end up scratching your flooring. Aside from furniture, other items can also end up damaging floors, so avoid dragging items such as furniture, kids toys, and bicycles across the house!
4. Consider Refinishing Your Floors
If you’ve had your flooring for anywhere between 3-5 years, you may want to consider giving it a refinishing. Refinishing your wooden floors can help to revive and refresh your flooring and can also remove unwanted marks and stains that you may be struggling to get rid of. All you have to do is apply a new coat of wood floor finish, either on your own or with the help of a professional if you don’t think you’re up to the job. If you do choose to tackle the job yourself, be sure to do your research because the last thing you want to do is accidentally damage your floor!
5. Pet and Child Mess
Lastly, if you want your flooring to remain pristine for years to come, it is important you take small steps each day to ensure that you don’t drag in any dirt into your home from outside. Always remember to take your shoes off before entering the home, and be sure to supervise kids who have spent the day outdoors, happily rolling in mud. The same rule applies to pets, and investing in an inexpensive pet paw cleaner which your cat or dog can use before entering the home is a great way to keep those floors mud and dirt free!
Maintaining and caring for your wooden floors isn’t as complicated as it may seem. By cleaning regularly and taking a few steps to prevent unwanted spills and stains from ending up on your expensive flooring, you’ll be able to keep them looking pristine for years to come.
