How To Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floor: What You Need To Know
Get the facts on safely and effectively cleaning prefinished hardwood floors. Learn what tools to use, how often to clean, and more!
Hardwood floors are a classic interior design choice and an elegant feature for any home. They elevate the overall look of the space they occupy, add a sense of warmth and depth to the room, and are durable and long-lasting.
Prefinished hardwood flooring, in particular, have a lot of benefits. From being resistant to scratches and stains to being easy to clean, prefinished hardwood floors are perfect for a hassle-free lifestyle.
Maintaining the shine of these floors, however, requires proper cleaning techniques and a bit of elbow grease to keep them looking new. Fortunately, cleaning prefinished hardwood floors is a straightforward process, and you only require a couple of tools and a little know-how to get started. In this blog post, we will provide you with everything you need to know about cleaning prefinished hardwood floors to keep them looking their best for years to come.
The Benefits of Prefinished Hardwood Floors
Prefinished hardwood floors have numerous advantages, which is why they have become increasingly popular over the years.
Prefinished hardwood floors are much more durable than traditional hardwood floors. They are pre-treated with multiple layers of factory-applied finishes called urethane, which makes them resistant to scratches, stains, and fading. Consequently, prefinished hardwood floors retain their original luster and shine longer than untreated hardwood floors.
Secondly, prefinished hardwood floors come in a range of styles and colors, giving homeowners the ability to choose the perfect one to match their home decor preferences.
Prefinished hardwood floors are easy to install since they are pre-finished in a factory. This makes installation much faster and less messy than site-finished hardwood floors.
If you are looking for flooring ideas for your bathroom there are a lot of options to choose from. If you wanted hardwood for the bathroom prefinished is the way to go.
Understanding the Different Types of Pre-Finished Hardwood Floors
There are two types of pre-finished hardwood floors: solid and engineered.
Solid prefinished hardwood floors are composed of one solid piece of wood and come in various thicknesses. They are durable, long-lasting, and can be refinished multiple times.
Engineered prefinished hardwood floors, on the other hand, are made from a combination of plywood and hardwood. They are more stable and resistant to moisture than solid prefinished hardwood floors, which makes them ideal for areas with variable humidity levels.
Tools and Products You Will Need to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors
To clean your prefinished hardwood floors, you will need a few essential tools and products that will make the process much easier.
A broom and dustpan or vacuum cleaner with a soft-bristled attachment is ideal for getting rid of dust and dirt.
A microfiber mop will make cleaning your floors a breeze, and a pH-neutral cleaning solution will remove any grime or stains without damaging your floors.
A microfiber cloth is also a great tool for wiping away any residue after cleaning.
Avoid using harsh cleaning products or wax-based cleaners, as they can damage the top layer of your prefinished hardwood floors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors
Now that you have all the necessary tools and products, it’s time to start cleaning your prefinished hardwood floors! Follow these simple steps for sparkling clean floors.
1. Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any dust and dirt.
2. Mix a tablespoon of pH-neutral cleaning solution with a gallon of water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the floor lightly with the solution, making sure not to saturate the wood.
3. Clean prefinished hardwood flooring using a damp microfiber mop, moving from one end of the room to the other.
4. Wipe away any residue with a clean microfiber cloth and allow the floor to air dry.
5. Once the floor is completely dry, you can use a wood floor polish or conditioner to give your floors an extra shine.
6. Finally, use furniture pads to protect your floors from scuffs and scratches.
Tips for Everyday Cleaning and Maintenance of Prefinished Hardwood Floors
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial if you want to keep your prefinished hardwood floors looking their best.
Sweep or vacuum your floors daily to remove loose dirt and debris. When mopping your floors, use a damp mop rather than a wet one to prevent water from seeping in between the floorboards and causing damage.
Avoid dragging heavy furniture across your prefinished hardwood floors. Instead, use furniture pads to prevent scratches and dents.
Deep Cleaning and Stain Removal Techniques for Prefinished Hardwood Floors
Spills happen, and when they do, it is important to act fast to prevent any stains from setting in.
If you spill anything on your prefinished hardwood floors, immediately grab a soft cloth and soak up the spill. You can then use a pH-neutral floor cleaner to remove any remaining grime or stains.
For more stubborn stains such as pet urine or red wine, mix equal parts of water and vinegar and apply the solution to the stain. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off with a damp cloth.
To learn more about cleaning with vinegar and baking soda check out our top tips!
Cleaning hardwood floors using damp mopping and the right cleaning solutions is key to keeping your wood floors looking new!
How to Prevent Damage to Your Prefinished Hardwood Floors During Cleaning
When you are cleaning your prefinished hardwood floors, it is critical to prevent any damage from occurring by following a few simple precautions.
Never use a wet mop to clean your floors as water can seep into the gaps between the floorboards and cause damage.
Don't use harsh cleaning products or abrasive cleaning tools on your prefinished hardwood floors as they can scratch and damage the surface.
Don't let spills sit on your floors for too long, as they can seep into the wood and cause lasting damage.
Instead of a traditional dustpan try an electric dustpan in order to make clean up a breeze! Find out more about the benefits of an automatic dustpan in our article!
Utilize area rugs at the entrances and doorways to keep those high-traffic areas clean of dirt and debris.
If you have hardwood flooring in your bathroom you may have a difficult time maintaining it. Be sure to use bathroom rugs to help protect the flooring from moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Prefinished Hardwood Floors
Here are a few frequently asked questions about cleaning prefinished hardwood floors to help you better understand the process:
Can you use vinegar on prefinished hardwood floors?
Yes, you can use vinegar to clean prefinished hardwood floors. However, make sure to mix it with equal parts of water and apply it sparingly.
Can you use a steam mop on prefinished hardwood floors?
No, you cannot use a steam mop on prefinished hardwood floors. The steam can seep into the wood and cause damage.
How often should you clean prefinished hardwood floors?
You should clean your prefinished hardwood floors at least once a week.
When to Consider Professional Cleaning Services
If you don't have the time or energy to clean your prefinished hardwood floors, or if you are dealing with a stubborn stain that you can't get rid of, hiring a professional cleaning service might be the best option. A professional cleaning service has the expertise, tools, and products to clean your prefinished hardwood floors efficiently and effectively.
Conclusion
Cleaning your prefinished hardwood floors is a simple process. It requires the right tools, products, and a little know-how to keep your floors looking clean and new. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial if you want your floors to last a lifetime. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your prefinished hardwood floors remain a beautiful and elegant feature in your home for years to come.