Hardwood floors are one of a home’s most timeless and beautiful features. They add warmth, character, and a touch of elegance to any space. But as durable as they are, they still need regular care to stay looking their best for years. Whether your hardwood floors are brand new or have been part of your home for decades, knowing the basics of hardwood floor care can make all the difference.
Start Hardwood Floor Care with Regular Cleaning
Keeping your hardwood floors clean is the foundation of good floor care. The number one enemy of hardwood is grit and dirt. These tiny particles might not seem like a big deal, but when you walk over them, they act like sandpaper and slowly wear down the finish.
A good rule of thumb is to sweep or vacuum your floors a few times a week—daily if the space gets a lot of foot traffic. Make sure your vacuum is hardwood-floor-friendly, meaning it doesn’t have a beater bar that could scratch the surface. You can also use a microfiber dust mop, which picks up dust and debris without damaging the floor.
When it’s time to mop, avoid using excessive water. Hardwood and water are not friends. Too much moisture can cause the wood to swell or warp over time. Use a damp (not wet) mop with a hardwood floor cleaner that’s specifically made for your floor’s finish. Avoid harsh chemicals, vinegar, and steam cleaners—they can all dull or damage the finish.
Watch the Humidity
Wood is a natural material, which means it reacts to its environment. Changes in humidity can cause hardwood to expand and contract. During the summer months, high humidity might make your boards swell. In the winter, when the air is drier, they may shrink and leave small gaps.
To help control this, try to keep the humidity level in your home between 35% and 55%. A humidifier or dehumidifier can help, depending on the season. Keeping your home’s temperature and humidity relatively consistent year-round can prevent problems with your floors.
Use Rugs and Pads Wisely
Area rugs can be both stylish and practical. They protect high-traffic areas like hallways, entryways, and under furniture from wear and tear. Just make sure to use rugs with a breathable backing. Avoid rubber-backed or non-ventilated rugs as they can trap moisture and damage the finish over time.
Furniture pads are also a must. Stick them under the legs of chairs, tables, and couches to prevent scratches and dents. If you’re moving furniture, pick it up instead of dragging it across the floor. A little effort here saves a lot of regret later.
Refinish When Needed
Even with the best care, hardwood floors will eventually show signs of wear. Scratches, dullness, or fading are normal after years of use. The good news is that hardwood can be refinished. Depending on how thick the planks are and how deeply they’ve been scratched, your floors can usually be sanded down and refinished several times over their lifespan.
How often you need to refinish depends on the type of wood, the finish, and how much use the floor gets. On average, every 7 to 10 years is common for most homes. A professional can help you determine if it’s time.
Be Smart About Spills and Shoes
One of the easiest ways to protect your floors is to clean up spills right away. Liquids left sitting too long can seep into the seams and cause staining or warping. A quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth is usually all you need.
Shoes, especially high heels and sports cleats, can be rough on hardwood. If possible, set up a shoe-free policy in your home or at least encourage guests to wipe their feet. Tiny pebbles or dirt stuck in the soles can leave behind scratches.
Taking care of hardwood floors doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little regular maintenance and a few smart habits, you can keep them looking beautiful for generations.
FAQs About Hardwood Floor Care
How often should I clean my hardwood floors?
Light cleaning, such as sweeping or dust mopping, should be done several times a week. Depending on use, a deeper clean with a damp mop can be done once every week or two.
Can I use a steam mop on hardwood?
No. Steam mops push moisture into the wood and can damage both the surface finish and the wood itself.
What’s the best way to protect hardwood from furniture?
Use felt pads on the bottom of all furniture legs and avoid dragging heavy items across the floor.
Should I polish my floors?
Only if your floors have a surface finish that supports polishing, like polyurethane. Polishing too often or using the wrong type can lead to buildup and dullness.
Is it okay to use vinegar or homemade cleaners?
It’s best to avoid vinegar or any acidic solutions. They can break down the finish over time. Stick with cleaners specifically made for hardwood floors.
Jones & Cooper Home Inspections provides home inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the Metro Louisville area. Contact us to schedule our services.