Hardwood floors are prized for their timeless elegance and durability, but to maintain their beauty, you must clean them properly. Unfortunately, not all cleaning products are suitable for hardwood floors, and using the wrong ones can lead to damage over time. In this blog post, we’ll explore the types of hardwood floor cleaning products you should avoid to keep your floors looking their best.
Excessive Water and Steam Cleaners
One of the most common mistakes when cleaning hardwood floors is using too much water or steam cleaners. Hardwood and excess moisture don’t mix well. Water can seep into the wood, causing it to warp, swell, or cup. Steam cleaners, although effective for some surfaces, can force moisture deep into the wood’s pores, leading to potential damage and discoloration. Steam cleaners have also been known to melt the finish and damage the coating on your floor. Stick to a damp mop or cloth, not a soaking wet one, to clean your hardwood floors.
Vinegar and Ammonia-Based Cleaners
While vinegar and ammonia are often used for general cleaning, they are acidic and can damage the finish of your hardwood floors. Over time, these substances can strip away the protective coating, leaving your floors susceptible to scratches, stains, and dullness. It’s best to avoid these ingredients when choosing a cleaning product.
Harsh Chemical Cleaners
Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, especially those designed for other types of flooring. These products can contain abrasive chemicals that can scratch or damage the finish on your hardwood floors. Select cleaning solutions specifically formulated for hardwood to ensure safety and longevity.
Oil-Soaps
Oil-based soaps might seem like a good choice, but they can leave behind a sticky residue that attracts dirt and dust. This residue can be challenging to remove and interfere with the adhesion of future finish or maintenance coatings. Choose a gentle hardwood floor cleaner instead.
Wax-Based Cleaners
Wax-based cleaners can create a buildup on your hardwood floors, leaving them looking cloudy and dull. They may also make the surface slippery, posing a safety hazard. These products require extensive and challenging removal processes. Stick to cleaner options that won’t leave residue and interfere with the adhesion of future finish or maintenance coatings.
Abrasive Scrubbers and Brushes
Scrubbers or brushes with stiff bristles or abrasive pads can scratch the surface of your hardwood floors. Opt for soft microfiber cloths, mop heads, or soft-bristle brooms to clean without causing damage.
Furniture Polish
Furniture polish contains silicones that can create a slippery surface on hardwood floors. This can make your floors hazardous and result in residue buildup over time. Avoid using furniture polish as a floor cleaner.
Saturating Floor Polish
While floor polishes can add shine and protection, overusing them can create an uneven, sticky surface. Using this type of finish will prevent future maintenance coats from properly adhering to your floor.
Dirty Cleaning Tools
Using dirty or gritty mop heads or cloths can transfer dirt and debris onto your hardwood floors, potentially causing scratches or surface damage. Keep your cleaning tools clean and free from debris.
In conclusion, the key to maintaining the longevity and beauty of your hardwood floors is using the right cleaning products. Avoiding the aforementioned products and opting for pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaners designed for your specific flooring type will help ensure your hardwood floors stay stunning for years to come. If your floors are lacking shine and you want to clean up surface scratches, check out our clean and coat process for lasting results.
Our Commitment To Clients
As flooring professionals, we strive to stay educated on the various flooring systems available on the market. We stay at the forefront of new advancements in the flooring industry through continued education and training courses provided by the National Wood Flooring Association. Our knowledge enables us to educate our clients on the pros and cons of various hardwood solutions. Our job is to listen to our clients and provide solutions that best fit their lifestyles. We provide easy and stress-free installations by staying informed, prioritizing clients’ needs, and setting proper expectations.
