Posted by Todd Ellebruch on Wed, Feb 18, 2009 @ 08:21 AM
Hardwood flooring is one of the timeless decorating techniques, which not only brings elegance to your home, but increases its value as well. Proper care and attention is the only way to ensure longevity. Here are some basic tips when cleaning hardwood floors.
- Place floor mats at entrances to trap dirt before hitting the floor. These small particles can act like sandpaper and scratch the surface. Make sure the bottoms of the mats are not made of rubber, which can trap moisture.
- When sweeping, use a soft bristled or terry cloth broom to prevent scratching.
- Never use a water and vinegar solution when cleaning hardwood floors. The water will cause the boards to swell and crack, while the vinegar will damage the finish. Use a PH-balanced cleaner with micro-fiber mop for best results.
- If an area rug or runner covers portions of the floor, make sure it is vacuumed often. The dirt can settle in through the weaving and scratch the flooring.
- Install furniture pads on the bottoms of tables, sofas, and chairs to avoid scratching. These are relatively inexpensive and sold at any hardware store. Also, avoid dragging furniture when cleaning.
- Follow manufacturer instructions at all times when repairing scratches and dents, as well as waxing and buffing. Failing to do so will cause excessive damage to the flooring and will end up breaking the bank when it comes time to fix them.