How to Clean my HW Floors
#1
Member
Thread Starter
How to Clean my HW Floors
Hi,
Our hardwood floors are about 9 years old and other than running a dry, soft mop over them I dont think have ever been cleaned. The floow is a chery color but it seems our socks always look dirty afterwalking around on them. A damp towel? Or is there a solution with soap?
Also over the years dirt, food and grime has accumulated in the seams between the boards. NOt sure if there's anything to do about that?
Our hardwood floors are about 9 years old and other than running a dry, soft mop over them I dont think have ever been cleaned. The floow is a chery color but it seems our socks always look dirty afterwalking around on them. A damp towel? Or is there a solution with soap?
Also over the years dirt, food and grime has accumulated in the seams between the boards. NOt sure if there's anything to do about that?
#2
Member
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: U.S.
Posts: 23
Upvotes: 0
Received 0 Upvotes
on
0 Posts
Your cleaning method for hardwood floors will depend on what type of finish they have- surface vs. penetrating. A surface finish (typically polyurethane based, and typical on factory pre-finished floors) is best cleaned with a mild detergent such as a weak Simple Green solution. This finish is essentially plastic and you shouldn't use oil-based cleaners or wax. Remember that while the finish itself is waterproof, the wood underneath isn't. To prevent water damage and swelling which will loosen finish film from wood, use a barely damp cloth or mop.
A floor with a penetrating finish should be treated as any other woodwork or furniture; i.e. avoid water. If the floors are really dirty, they can be cleaned with a solution of Murphy's Oil Soap and warm water, again with a well-wrung out cloth. Allow the floor to dry thoroughly, then apply liquid or paste floor wax according to package directions and buff to a shine.
A floor with a penetrating finish should be treated as any other woodwork or furniture; i.e. avoid water. If the floors are really dirty, they can be cleaned with a solution of Murphy's Oil Soap and warm water, again with a well-wrung out cloth. Allow the floor to dry thoroughly, then apply liquid or paste floor wax according to package directions and buff to a shine.
#3
Member
Thread Starter
OK, this is very helpful feedback. Thanks! I think I have the surface type finish but will check. My wife saw this "steam cleaner" gadget for HQ floors and thought the steam/heat might do a good job.
Sounds like that would be too much water!
Sounds like that would be too much water!