Your Complete Care Guide
Wood flooring is such a great addition to any property, and as leading suppliers and installers of wood floors, we see first-hand how much of a difference they make. When it comes to cleaning them, though, the advice out there can be less than clear. So, we thought that we would put together a guide for you! Whether you are one of our Essex wood flooring customers or you’ve found yourself here after Googling how to clean your floor, we are here to help.
Sweep and Vacuum Regularly
Dust and grit may seem harmless, but under your feet they can act like sandpaper on your wood floor, and will gradually wear down its surface and leave it looking dull. To prevent this, regular sweeping or vacuuming is a must, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens. Ideally, you would do this daily, but a couple of times a week is more realistic for most people. Remember: you should use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment to avoid scratching.
Mop Carefully
The biggest mistake many people make is using too much water when mopping their wood floors. Wood and moisture are not the best of friends, and even professionally finished floors can only tolerate so much of it. So, how do you strike the right balance? Here are some of our top mopping tips:
- Use a microfibre mop that’s damp, not wet. Wring it out thoroughly before you begin using it.
- Avoid steam cleaners, as they can force moisture deep into the floorboards and damage the structure if you use them regularly.
- Mop in the direction of the grain for a smoother finish—trust us, it makes a difference!
There are lots of wood floor cleaning products out there, but we always recommend cleaners that have been specifically designed for your floor’s finish. If you need some recommendations, just get in touch with our wood flooring Essex team!
Tend to Spills Immediately
Spills happen, and if your wooden floor hasn’t been the victim of one yet, it’s only a matter of time. The key is acting fast when they do happen, so that you can stop any damage to your floor in its tracks. Blot up liquids straight away using a dry, soft cloth. Avoid rubbing spills, as this can push them deeper into the wood grain. For sticky or greasy messes, use a damp cloth and a mild floor cleaner, but don’t be tempted to drench it in water!
When Professional Help is Needed
Even with the most meticulous cleaning routine, wood floors can start to look dull over time. The good news is that you don’t have to replace yours! It just needs a little professional TLC instead. Here at West One Wood Flooring, we offer a restoration service to breathe new life into even the most tired wood floors. We sand, replace boards, fill gaps and cracks, and revitalise floors in a huge range of colours and finishes. So, no matter the state of yours right now, we can have it looking its best again!
Talk to Us
If you want to find out more about caring for your wood flooring in Essex or are interested in our restoration services, please get in touch today.