What You Should Never Use On Your Hardwood Floors
Posted on: 8 December 2020
If you have pure hardwood floors, then you can't treat them the same as other types of flooring. Hardwood floors need proper cleaning and maintenance or they become seriously damaged. Here are some things you should never use on your hardwood floors and reasons why you might want to consider hiring a professional to care for them.
Too Much Water
For most hardwood floors, a small amount of water will not do much damage provided it dries or is wiped up right away. However, a wet, messy mop could cause damage to your floor. If you must use a mop, then make sure it's only damp, not wet. Steam mops can also be a bad idea because they use too much moisture and could cause warping.
Too Much Oil
A small amount of diluted oil can help keep your wood looking shiny, but too much oil can trap dirt and actually make your floor slippery. In the long run, too much oil can worsen the appearance of your floor. If you haven't had much practice applying oil-based products, start out with a small, out-of-the-way area. Follow the directions on the container. A better option is to let a professional polish your floor.
Window Cleaners
Window cleaners, as well as furniture cleaners and polishes, are not designed for hardwood floors. Window cleaners contain components that could cause etching and long-term damage to the finish and even the wood itself. While many people may claim to have positive results with window cleaners, it is inadvisable, especially on a long-term basis.
Acidic Cleaners
You may have heard people recommend vinegar, ammonia, and even lemon juice as hardwood floor cleaners. However, all of these things can damage your hardwood floor's finish and even seep into and damage the actual wood, shortening its life. Over time, the wood will lose its shine, and the color will have unsightly splotches.
You also have to be careful if you have a large carpet or area rug over your hardwood floor. If you are having your carpet cleaned, then let the cleaning company know you have hardwood floors under the carpet. Some traditional carpet cleaning methods may cause floor damage. The only way to repair a severely damaged floor is by replacing the wood.
Don't rely on non-professional advice on how to maintain your beautiful floor. If you want to truly keep your hardwood floors in excellent condition, then your best bet is to hire a professional hardwood floor cleaning service. These services know exactly what types of cleaners, oil, and waxes work on these surfaces and how much to use. Contact a company, such as Leo's Holland Floor Maintenance, for more information.
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