Hardwood Floor Maintenance: The Dos and Don'ts

Now that your new hardwood flooring is installed, you're probably wondering about maintenance. Luckily, hardwood floors require little upkeep aside from regular sweeping and vacuuming. That said, there are certain things you should do and certain things you should not do if you want your flooring to last as long as it can. The following are a few Dos and Dont's regarding hardwood flooring maintenance. Enjoy!

Do: Use ventilated floor mats and furniture pads to protect your floors from scratches and scrapes caused by heavy furnishings.

Don't: Use oil soaps or ammonia cleaners. They dull the finish and may make refinishing more difficult.

Do: Clean sticky spots and spills as soon as you notice them. Use a damp sponge or towel and wipe up any remaining liquid.

Don't: Wax a wood floor that has a urethane finish.

Do: Minimize sun exposure by using shades or blinds on large windows.

Don't: Wet mop or use too much water when cleaning your floors. Remember, moisture is the arch enemy of hardwood flooring, so keep it dry.

Do: Vacuum! Using a vacuum (without a beater bar) is a great way to get dirt, dust, and debris out of hard-to-reach places like between boards and behind furniture.

Don't: Freak out when your flooring starts to change color. All hardwoods fade or change shades over time. This is natural.

For more information on hardwood flooring maintenance, call a Stone Wood Outlet flooring professional at 503-222-9663.

Wet mopping can do more harm than good to your hardwood floors.