How to Care for and Maintain Hardwood Floors

Hold the mop! If your standard mopping system involves a wet mop and harsh cleaning chemicals, it is time to change up your routine to maintain your beautiful new wood floors. While this routine may suffice for your tile floors, it can damage your hardwood flooring because moisture will cause the grain to rise, damaging the wood’s surface. Avoid using hardwood floor-cleaning or buffing machines too, and do not use oil soaps, liquid or paste wax.

The best way to clean hardwood floors is to vacuum or sweep with a soft-bristle broom on a regualr basis. However, avoid a vacuum with a beater bar or power rotary brush head. Always clean up spills immediately with the suggested Mohawk FloorCare Essentials Hardwood & Laminate Flooring Cleaner.

To maintain strong and vibrant wood flooring, protect your windows with shades to block UV rays and sunlight. Lay down floor mats in high-traffic areas, entrances and exits. If your family has pets, it is best to keep your critters nails trimmed and paws free of mud and dirt. If you live in a humid climate, invest in a humidifier during hot seasons to reduce humidity because it will eventually shrink your wood flooring.