How to Clean and Maintain Your Hardwood Floors

31 January 2025

Hardwood floors are a timeless and elegant addition to any home. They bring warmth, natural beauty, and an air of sophistication to your space. However, to keep them looking their best for years to come, regular maintenance and proper cleaning are essential. Here’s your guide to maintaining and cleaning your hardwood floors.

Daily Care: Keep Dirt at Bay

One of the simplest ways to preserve the beauty of your hardwood floors is to prevent dirt, dust, and debris from accumulating.

Sweep Regularly:

Use a soft-bristle broom or dust mop to sweep your floors daily. This prevents abrasive particles from scratching the surface.

Vacuum with Care:

Opt for a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor setting or a soft brush attachment to avoid scuff marks.

Doormats and Rugs:

Place mats at entryways to trap dirt and prevent it from being tracked onto your floors. Use rugs in high-traffic areas for added protection.

Weekly Maintenance

A weekly clean can help remove more stubborn dirt and maintain the floor’s finish.

Damp Mop:

Use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop and a cleaner designed for wood floors. Avoid soaking the floor, as excess water can warp the wood.

Choose the Right Cleaner:

Use a hardwood floor cleaner designed for your specific floor finish. Avoid harsh chemicals and products like ammonia or vinegar that can dull the surface.

Pro Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning products and techniques to avoid voiding your floor’s warranty.

Seasonal Maintenance: Long-Term Care

Oak flooring, like any hardwood, requires regular upkeep to maintain its durability, beauty, and longevity. A floor maintenance service will be required every 1–3 years.

Thorough Inspection:

Check for scratches, dents, gaps, and areas where the finish is fading, especially in high-traffic areas. Identifying these issues early prevents costly repairs and ensures the right maintenance approach.

Deep
Cleaning:

Vacuum or sweep to remove dust and debris, then use a pH-balanced wood cleaner to lift dirt without damaging the finish. Avoid excessive water or harsh chemicals to prevent warping or discoloration.

Recoating with a Protective Finish:

Recommended every 1–3 years

A fresh coat of finish protects against moisture, stains, and wear, extending the floor’s lifespan. Choose water-based lacquer, oil-based finishes, or hardwax oil depending on the existing coating.

Protect Your Floors from Damage

Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining hardwood floors. Follow these tips to minimise wear and tear:

Furniture Pads:

Attach felt pads to the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to prevent scratches when they’re moved.

Protect from Sunlight:

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade or discolour your floors. Use curtains or blinds to minimize UV damage.

High Heels and Pet Nails:

Avoid walking on hardwood floors with high heels or shoes with sharp edges. Trim your pet’s nails regularly to prevent gouges.

Clean Spills Immediately:

Wipe up spills as soon as they happen to prevent stains and water damage.

Things to avoid for long-lasting hardwood floors

Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining hardwood floors. Follow these tips to minimize wear and tear:

Steam Cleaners:

The high heat and moisture from steam mops can damage the wood and finish.

Excessive Water:

Avoid soaking your floors with water, as it can seep into the wood and cause warping.

Abrasive Tools:

Steel wool, scrub brushes, and other harsh materials can scratch the surface.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Maintaining and cleaning your hardwood floors isn’t just about aesthetics. Regular care will extend the life of your flooring and will preserve the floor’s value, which is a significant investment in your home. Regular maintenance and care also creates a healthier indoor environment by removing dust and allergens.

Where does Silvanus come in?

Caring for hardwood floors doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little daily upkeep and attention to detail, your floors will remain a stunning focal point in your home for years to come. When it comes to the long-term, annual maintenance requirements of hardwood floors, Silvanus Flooring can assist with both advice and as a service provider. We can also assist with repairs as necessary.

Contact Silvanus on +27 87 153 6309 or email us at info@silvanusflooring.co.za to schedule a consultation to chat to someone from our team of professionals who will be able to answer all of your questions related to hardwood flooring maintenance and care, as well as what we can offer in this area.