Cleaning Your Hardwood or Vinyl Plank Floor

Whether you have had hardwood flooring your entire life, or you now have your first hardwood floor, we have some tips and tricks for you!

Hardwood has changed throughout the years. The market used to be saturated with “site-finished” hardwood. This process is where your raw wood, was installed, it would be sanded, stained, and sealed at a later time. In the current day, “pre-finished” hardwood owns the market. There are multiple reasons for this. Price, ease, and harder coatings make this product a hard selling point.

With these change in the market, cleaning practices have changed. The old vinegar and water method, isn’t always the best.

Step 1: Always sweep/suck up debris. You want your floor to be free of any loose materials that can scratch it.

Step 2: General cleaning: 4 cups of water per 3 drops of dish soap. This is the only product you will most likely ever need. Start by lightly applying this to the floor.

We like to use a light mist of a spray bottle. (Do not shake it up). Wipe with a soft mop or soft hand towel. Do not let the water sit for too long, this could cause damage. Do not use anything that may be gritty. Finish wiping excess water up with a dry soft towel. (Do small sections at a time)

We do not like to recommend Bona cleaner as a daily cleaner, as it will leave a residue. This builds up with time and you will see a difference.

For tougher stains, there are many harsher cleaners. We recommend checking with the manufacturer instructions before trying. Depends what is on the floor, we had had good luck with mineral spirits with a soft towel. Please test a small area first, or a left over piece if you have it.

Contact us if you are looking for more insights. We are more than happy to help!