use a carpet cleaner on wood floors
Wood floors bring an earthy, warm character to the home. They are durable and can last for decades – but only if they are maintained correctly. Stains are the biggest concern for many homeowners who have wood floors. Whether it’s food, drinks, or pet stains, it’s important to treat them promptly. Otherwise, they can penetrate deep into the carpet fibers where they’re difficult to remove.
Surface stains can be easily treated with a cloth or mop dipped in a cleaner solution. A mild soap, neutralizer or even methylated spirits can be used to clean deeply seated stains. Regular sweeping and a good vacuuming with a well-designed, powerful device are the best ways to remove dirt, dust and other solids from wood floors. Vacuuming with a rotating brush attachment can be damaging to the hardwoods, so be sure to use a brushless attachment.
If you choose to steam-clean your How to clean Wood Floors, do so in a well-ventilated area following the manufacturer’s directions. The high temperatures and moisture level in the vapor can discolor, warp or crack your floors if they aren’t properly sealed.
How to use a carpet cleaner on wood floors?
While vinegar may work as a household cleaner, it is not recommended for wood floors. Vinegar is acidic and can cause the wood to dull over time. Instead, a quality wood floor cleaner such as O-Cedar PACS Hard Floor Cleaner can be used to maintain the beauty of your floors. The odor from this cleaner is also much less noxious than those of traditional chemical-based cleaners.
Sweep or vacuum (again; not all vacuums are suitable for wood floors) your wooden floors regularly to clear away loose debris, such as dirt, grit and pet hair. A broom with a soft-bristled brush head is better than a wire-bristle broom, which could scratch the floor.
Occasionally mop your wood floors with a clean, damp cloth. Always make sure that the cloth is not too wet, and do not leave puddles of water on the floor. The best way to mop is in the direction of the grain. Stubborn spots can be cleaned with a cloth or sponge dipped in your wood floor cleaner and rubbed in the direction of the grain. A light touch up is needed after the cleaning to restore the natural shine of your floors.
If your wood floors are finished with polyurethane, they don’t need polishing. There is a huge industry that will sell you a product to “polish” your floors, but this is not necessary. If the finish has worn off, a light sanding followed by refinishing will help your floors look like new again.
Using area rugs in children’s play areas and in high-traffic areas helps to reduce scratches, indentations and scuff marks. Requiring family members and guests to wipe or remove their shoes at the front door is another way to protect your wood floors. Keeping your pets’ nails trimmed can help prevent scuffing and other damage. Lastly, placing a doormat at the entrance to your home is an easy and affordable way to keep your floors looking their best.
