Keeping a new wood floor like new

When life gets messy, you need a floor that’s simple to clean

What to do

• Clean regularly with a broom or dust mop or even vacuum using the bare floor setting to remove dust and dirt.
• Clean the floors periodically with a professional wood floor cleaning product recommended by a wood flooring professional.
• Wipe up spills immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
• Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.

What not to do

• Use wet mops or steam mops, which can dull the finish and even damage the wood.
• Use vinyl or tile cleaning products on wood floors. Self-polishing acrylic waxes cause wood to become slippery and appear dull quickly.
• Use wood furniture polish, which can make the floor dangerously slippery, and damage the finish.
• Over-wax a wood floor. If a wax floor dulls, try buffing instead.

Individual maintenance schedules will vary depending on use, wear and tear, and lifestyle, but here are some additional tips for keeping your floors beautiful:

• Use throw rugs at doorways to help prevent debris from being tracked in and scratching the floor.
• Put stick-on felt protectors under the legs of furniture to prevent scuffing and scratching.
• Avoid walking on your wood floors with sports cleats and high heels.
• When moving heavy furniture, pick it up instead of sliding it across the floor.

Thank you Libby White Johnston, Publisher & VP of Media
National Wood Flooring Association I Hardwood Floors Magazine