Keeping your hardwood floors doesn’t have to be an insurmountable task. Throughout the seasons, with rain, mud, snow, and dirt coming with each season, the poor floors can get beaten down. The good news is that a little bit of elbow grease and regular practice really go a long way to keeping them in fabulous shape. Here are three super-easy ways you can make sure your hardwood floors retain their beauty for as long as possible.
Tips for Caring for your Hardwood Floors
1. Cleaning Regularly and Smartly
Daily cleaning may sound a little cumbersome, but it is actually one of the easiest ways to care for your hardwood floors. Dust daily with a microfiber mop to prevent scratches and remove allergens. Unlike traditional sweeping, microfiber mops trap dirt and dust without pushing it around.
Vacuuming also works well for grabbing lingering grit, but remember, no wet mops! Too much water will ruin your floor’s finish over time. Instead, opt for a gentle and efficient dry cleaning method.
2. Polish for That Extra Shine
Want to keep your floors looking new? Give them a polish every few months. A water-based polish is your best friend; it cleans the shine and protects against wear and tear without leaving any residue. Plus, it fills in small scratches, making your floors look smooth and even again.
By polishing every two to three months, you extend not only the life of your floor but avoid the damage imposed by too much cleaning.
3. Protect with Rugs and Mats
Rugs aren’t only stylish but really functional as well. Place a rug over natural backings so the bottoms don’t get scratched up or scuffed in high-traffic areas. For pet owners with nail-laden companions, filing is also recommended to minimise potentially ugly dings and cracks. Set a mat with a water bowl to prevent accidents from spilling over onto your wood surface.
Keep It Simple
Maintaining a hardwood floor isn’t that complicated. Simply follow the usual cleaning, polish once in a while, and lay down some rugs for extra protection. Heed these tips, and you will enjoy your floors in style for years to come.
Have questions or need more advice? Stop by Floor Decor. We’d love to help you!
