Understand Your Hardwood Flooring
Do you know what type of hardwood flooring you have? Understanding your hardwood flooring is essential to knowing how to keep it clean and maintain its beauty. Some floors are finished with polyurethane, while others are finished with varnish, wax, or oil. The type of finish will determine the type of cleaning and maintenance required.
If you’re not sure what type of flooring you have, try to find out by consulting the manufacturer, installer, or a flooring expert. Knowing your flooring will also help you determine the best ways to prevent damage and prolong its lifespan.
Sweep and Vacuum Your Hardwood Flooring Regularly
Maintaining your hardwood flooring doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require consistency. The best way to keep your floors clean is to sweep and vacuum them regularly. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a floor-brush attachment to remove dirt, dust, and debris that accumulate over time. Be careful not to scratch the floor with sharp or abrasive tools.
You can also use a damp mop to clean your floors, but make sure to avoid using too much water, which can cause damage to the wood. A quick swipe with a damp, not wet, mop will do the trick. Avoid using vinegar, lemon juice, or any other acidic cleaners on your hardwood flooring as they can damage the finish. Instead, use a mild, ph-neutral cleaner specifically designed for hardwood flooring.
Protect Your Hardwood Flooring From Scratches and Dents
Scratches and dents are a common problem with hardwood flooring, but they can be preventable. Taking some precautionary measures can go a long way in preventing unnecessary damage to your flooring. Consider adding felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs to minimize scratches when the furniture is moved. Place doormats at each entrance to your home to help trap dirt and debris before it gets tracked onto your floors.
High heels and pet claws are also notorious for scratching hardwood flooring. To reduce the risk of scratches, ask your guests to remove their shoes before entering your home, and keep your pets’ claws trimmed regularly.
Control the Humidity Level in Your Home
The humidity level in your home can have a significant impact on your hardwood flooring. Too much humidity can cause your flooring to expand, buckle or even cup, while too little humidity can cause the wood to shrink, crack or split. Ideally, the Relative Humidity (RH) should range between 30% and 50%.
To maintain the proper humidity level in your home, use a humidifier or dehumidifier depending on the season. A digital hygrometer can help you monitor the humidity levels easily and adjust accordingly to ensure your hardwood flooring stays healthy.
Conclusion
Keeping your hardwood flooring looking beautiful for years to come is not rocket science, but it does require commitment and consistency. Understanding the type of hardwood flooring you have, sweeping and vacuuming regularly, protecting your flooring from scratches and dents, and controlling humidity levels are some of the essential maintenance tips and tricks that can help prolong your flooring’s life and maintain its beauty. Do not overlook this beneficial external source we’ve selected to improve your educational journey. Access it and discover even more about the topic discussed. Mayflower Floorings https://mayflowerfloorings.com.
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