Things you should never use to clean wooden floors

Wood floors are a classic, long-lasting design choice that most homeowners never regret. However, while they are extremely durable, they are not indestructible. Cleaning wood floors with the wrong materials can cause warping, scratching, and damage.

 

With just a few simple changes in your routine, you can ensure your wood floors stay clean and damage-free.

Too much water

One of the most common mistakes people make with wood floors is using too much water when cleaning. A wet mop can cause a lot of damage to hardwood floors. ' First and foremost, avoid using too much water on wood floors,' says Anthony Scott, global product manager at Havwoods. 'Wood is porous and can absorb moisture, which can lead to warping, swelling and damage over time .'

Instead of using a soaking wet mop, try a damp microfiber mop. Using a small amount of cleaning solution will help protect your floors and prevent warping and mold.

 

Traditional mop

Ditch your old wire mop and switch to a microfiber mop. Traditional mops retain excess water, which can damage hardwood floors. Steam mops can also damage hardwood floors if you're not careful and leave too much water on the floor. Instead, opt for a microfiber mop with a mild cleaning solution and avoid soaking the mop.

'Most wood floor manufacturers recommend using a flat microfiber mop and just spraying the cleaner on, stay away from old wire mops, which can leave the floor too wet,' explains Derek Christian, co-owner of All Star Cleaning . 'If the floor looks damp after a few minutes of mopping, you should wipe it again with a dry mop to remove excess water .'

Ammonia-based cleaners

Stay away from harsh cleaners like bleach and ammonia-based cleaners as they can be damaging to wood floors. Using these cleaners can discolor the wood, wear away the finish, and damage deeper layers of the floor.

' Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, such as ammonia or bleach, as they can strip the finish and damage the wood,' says Scott . 'These can leave your floors dull and susceptible to scratches .'

Oil-based soap

It's best to avoid using oil-based soaps on hardwood floors, as they can dull the finish and leave residue on the floor. "Oil-based soaps leave a buildup that makes the surface slippery, attracts dirt, and is dangerous for the finish, " explains Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare.

 

Instead of oil-based soaps, choose natural, pH-neutral cleaners or cleaning solutions specifically designed for hardwood floors.

Vinegar

Another common cleaner to avoid on your wood floors is vinegar. While vinegar is natural and non-toxic, it is too acidic for wood floors and can wear away the protective finish over time. Schrader warns to stay away from vinegar. 'Although natural, the acidity can dull or damage the finish over time,' he says.

Instead of vinegar, choose a pH-neutral floor cleaner, a diluted natural dish soap solution, or a gentle cleaning formula created specifically for hardwood floors.

Sanding machine

Some cleaning tools are too harsh for hardwood floors, so avoid using sanders on your floors as they can scratch and damage the wood. ' Never use steel wool or sanders on wood floors as they can leave scratches and marks that are difficult to repair,' says Scott. 'Instead, opt for a soft cloth or microfiber mop specifically designed for hardwood floors .'

Floor polish

If the product says it will add shine to your floors, it will leave a waxy layer to do this. However, be aware that the problem with floor wax is that it will yellow over time and need to be removed with a chemical stripper, which will damage your wood floors.

Instead of waxing your floors, use a mild detergent and then buff with a dry microfiber mop. Clean your hardwood floors regularly and protect them from furniture, shoes, and other items that could damage them to ensure they stay looking like new.