How to Keep Your Prefinished Hardwood Floors Looking Like New

1. How to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors

Prefinished hardwood flooring is a popular choice among homeowners due to its durability, easy maintenance, and natural beauty. Unlike unfinished hardwood floors, prefinished floors come with a factory-applied finish that protects the wood from scratches, stains, and other damage.

However, just like any other flooring material, prefinished hardwood floors require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. In this article, we'll share some tips on how to clean prefinished hardwood floors and keep them looking their best for years to come.

2. Sweep or Vacuum Regularly

The first step in cleaning prefinished hardwood floors is to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris that can scratch the surface. You can use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment to sweep or vacuum the floor.

Make sure to clean the edges and corners of the room, where dirt and dust tend to accumulate. Also, avoid using a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar, as it can scratch the finish.

3. Damp Mop with a Hardwood Floor Cleaner

After sweeping or vacuuming, you can use a damp mop to clean the prefinished hardwood floors. However, you should avoid using too much water or harsh cleaning solutions that can damage the finish.

Instead, use a hardwood floor cleaner that is specifically formulated for prefinished floors. These cleaners are pH-neutral and gentle on the finish, while effectively removing dirt and grime.

To damp mop the floor, simply spray the cleaner onto the mop or directly onto the floor, and then mop in the direction of the grain. Make sure to wring out the mop thoroughly to avoid leaving excess water on the floor.

4. Wipe Up Spills and Stains Immediately

Accidents happen, and spills and stains are inevitable, especially in high-traffic areas. However, it's important to wipe up any spills or stains immediately to prevent them from seeping into the wood and causing damage.

For liquid spills, use a clean, damp cloth or paper towel to soak up the liquid. For sticky spills, such as gum or candy, use a plastic scraper to gently remove the residue, and then wipe with a damp cloth.

For tougher stains, such as ink or oil, you may need to use a specialized hardwood floor cleaner or a spot cleaner. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the stain.

5. Avoid Excess Moisture and Abrasives

When cleaning prefinished hardwood floors, it's important to avoid excess moisture and abrasive cleaning tools that can damage the finish. This includes:

a) Steam mops: Steam can cause the wood to swell and the finish to peel or crack.

b) Wet mops: Too much water can seep into the wood and cause swelling or warping.

c) Scrub brushes: Abrasive tools can scratch the finish and expose the wood to moisture.

d) Harsh cleaners: Ammonia, bleach, and other harsh cleaners can strip the finish and damage the wood.

Instead, stick to a hardwood floor cleaner that is safe for prefinished floors and use a soft mop or cloth to avoid scratching the finish.

6. Protect the Floor from Furniture and Shoes

Finally, to prevent scratches and scuffs on prefinished hardwood floors, it's important to protect the floor from furniture and shoes. You can use felt pads or furniture glides on the bottom of chairs, tables, and other furniture to prevent them from scratching the floor.

Also, encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes before walking on the prefinished hardwood floors. Shoes can track in dirt, rocks, and other debris that can scratch.