Tips on Cleaning & Maintaining Your Hardwood Floors

Quality hardwoods can easily last a lifetime if maintained and cared for properly. With Christmas and other holidays quickly approaching, it’s a great time to give a little “TLC” to your hardwoods. Have a stain from Aunt Betty that just won’t go away? Follow the cleaning tips below and get your floor ready to be seen by friends and family!

BASIC CARE FOR ALL HARDWOODS:

• Doormats and Rugs
  • Shoes carry dirt particles that will scratch the surface of your hardwood floors and will result in faster aging. Placing a rug in front of doors will help remove some of the dirt. For high traffic areas, use non-staining rugs to protect the surface. Never place mats or rugs near your sink or dishwasher as water may be an issue in these areas.
• Furniture Protectors
  • Placing furniture protectors (felt pads) on the bottom of all the legs of your furniture will keep it from scratching the wood when it is moved.
• Regular Sweeping
  •  Sweep floors daily to remove dust, dirt, and debris, minimizing damage to the surface. You can also vacuum as long as it does not have a beater bar.
• Spills
  • Immediately wipe up all spills to avoid any excess moisture seeping into the wood.