Dos and Don'ts

Don't Mop with a Wet Mop

Real wooden floors hate water, so don't mop with a wet mop. If you want to clean your wood then use the manufacturer's recommended cleaning products on your hardwood floor.

Vacuum Regularly

Little things like gravel, mud and small stones can scratch or scuff your wood and ruin the quality and appearance of your floor. Make sure to vacuum the areas regularly so loose grit doesn't scratch or even become embedded in the wood. Also remember when vacuuming to use a soft bristle brush attachment.

Another simple tip to prevent scratching is to make sure you have appropriate doormats at the front and back entrances to your house. This will lessen the chance of stones and gravel coming into your home in the first place.

Make Sure Chairs Don't Scratch Surface

Any furniture that rests directly on top of a hardwood floor should have felt protectors, or furniture coasters under all its feet, as wheels, sharp wooden legs and metal furniture legs can easily scratch and dent hardwood floors. If you have extremely heavy objects, such as pianos or clocks, in your home then you should use wide, non-staining, rubber protectors.

Clean Any Spills Immediately

If you spill any liquids on your wood floor then immediately clean the area with a damp cloth or paper towel. Red wine, in particular, can seep into the grain of the wood, which can result in a permanent stain. Most spills won't be permanent if you clean them straightaway but, if your wood has become stained, always refer to the manufacturer's recommended cleaning guidelines.

Use the Right Products for Your Floor

Only use the wood manufacturers recommended products when cleaning your hardwood floors. Many of the over-the-counter oil-based soaps and waxes may result in damaging or dulling the colour of your wood, lessening its impact and reducing the overall value of your home. As such, make sure to keep your instructions when purchasing the wood!

Now you have everything you need to know to transform your home into a wooden paradise and keep it that way!