How to Clean and Maintain Timber Floors
If you have timber floors, whether they are made from engineered wood or solid hardwood, you need to take good care of them. Any type of wood floor needs regular cleaning and maintenance in order to last and remain in good condition. Here are some easy maintenance tips for your timber floors.
Sweep and Vacuum Regularly
With timber floors, it is very important that you keep as much dust from accumulating as possible. This is done by sweeping and vacuuming the floors on a regular basis. Try to do this at least once a week, but more often is good too. Many people choose to do both, as the broom helps to lift some of the dust that has built up on the floors, while the vacuum helps to pick up the dirt. This is important because when dust and dirt builds up on the floors, it can actually become gritty and scratch the floors when people walk on them. When using the vacuum, use the soft brush attachment. Microfiber sweeping cloths also work great at picking up the dirt.
Rearrange Rugs and Furniture Often
Another thing that is important to do for maintaining your wood floors is to rearrange anything you place on them occasionally, such as rugs and furniture. While you don't need to move around your furniture once a month, you shouldn't keep everything the same for years. Since timber floors tend to wear out over time, moving around the furniture helps the floors wear more evenly. This prevents you from having some spots that look much more worn than other spots on your floors. Rugs are also important to have over the floors, especially in high-traffic areas.
Keep the Moisture Levels Low
Timber floors that are not engineered to handle different elements and temperatures need to have as little contact with moisture as possible. If you have hardwood floors, they are susceptible to bubbling and distorting due to moisture from water or humidity. Try to keep the humidity in your home low by providing good ventilation and turning on a dehumidifier. Be very careful about any water that gets on the floor, drying it up right away. Have a rug at your entrance so rain doesn't come in when the door is opened. Try to catch leaks from the ceiling or plumbing fixtures right away.
Use Floor Cleaner Without Wax
Wood floors should not have any wax used on them, as it can make them overly slippery, when the floors are already polished and slippery enough. Make sure when you choose your floor cleaner, it is labeled for wood floors and that it doesn't contain any wax. When you have a spill, wipe it up immediately with the cleaner, being sure to use a soft microfiber cloth since it is gentle enough for your timber floors. After wiping it up, use a dry towel to make sure no moisture was left behind.
For more information about caring for your flooring, contact a local supplier like Parquetry Flooring Co Pty Ltd.
