Daily Hardwood Care
Daily hardwood care will help prevent unsightly scratching, and being prepared for spills will help prevent cupping, cracking, or discoloration. Place mats by all entrances and encourage guests to remove footwear to reduce the amount of tracked-in particles. Since many homeowners have pets, it’s extremely wise to trim pet nails and claws to reduce scratches and also brush your cats and dogs regularly to reduce pet dander. Also, utilize area rugs throughout the home to reduce the effects of foot traffic over time.
Dirt & Debris
Even though hardwood flooring provides tremendous durability, the most effective daily care you can provide is removing debris particles! Tiny offenders like dirt, debris, dust, and pet dander can eventually become abrasive to the surface of your hardwood. To remove dirt and debris effectively, dust-mop your floor daily or weekly with a microfiber cloth or dust mop. You can also vacuum hardwood floors for a deeper clean, but make sure your vacuum model has no rotating brushes.
Spills & Stains
If a spill occurs on your hardwood, avoid using harsh cleaners or any cleaner designed for other flooring materials like vinyl, laminate, or tile. Look for liquid scratch concealer, wood floor polish, floor wax, and touch-up kits, but read all instructions beforehand to ensure the product is safe for your wood species and finish. If your flooring manufacturer has warranted your hardwood surface for mopping, follow the guidelines strictly, use the least amount of water needed, and dry your floor with a microfiber cloth.
