We all love a clean, shiny hardwood floor that brings out the grain and color in our Aurora home. The trouble with many commercial wood floor cleaners is that they either contain harsh chemicals or wax that builds up. The chemicals can wear down the protective finish and may be hazardous to toddlers and pets. The waxy cleaners build up sticky layers that hold dirt, moisture, and stains, leaving the floor dull over time.

Many homeowners now prefer using a DIY wood floor cleaner method that’s safe for your family and the environment — and works on laminate flooring, bamboo, or even marble surfaces. These solutions cost less and can be mixed easily at home using simple tools like a bucket, mop, or sponge.

Here are a few simple, effective recipes to try in your kitchen or bathroom space:

Basic Citrus DIY Cleaner for Wood Floors

Vinegar and water will clean just about anything. Adding essential citrus oils helps cut through stains and grease and leaves a pleasant fragrance. Mix 1 part warm water with 1 part vinegar and add up to 15 drops of essential orange or lemon oil.
This eco-friendly cleaner works well on wood planks, bamboo flooring, and laminate flooring. Use a mop or scrubber to clean the surface, then dry with a sponge to prevent moisture buildup. Any leftover mixture can also clean tiles, countertops, and glass surfaces.

Antibacterial DIY Wood Floor Cleaner

If your floors are especially grimy or you have kids and pets, try this natural disinfectant recipe to clean and sanitize your flooring. Mix 8 cups of hot water with 1/3 cup of castile soap and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Add 5 drops each of eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender oil.
After cleaning, rinse with clean water to remove the soap and let the wood dry naturally. You can use a vacuum cleaner before mopping to remove sand or dust particles that scratch the surface.

Polishing & Restorative DIY Cleaner for Wood Floors

Your floors may need a shine boost that restores their natural beauty. Mix 8 cups of warm water with 1/3 cup of olive oil and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice. After mopping, let the surface air dry. The oil rejuvenates dull planks and adds a protective sheen.
This gentle method is suitable for both hardwood and bamboo flooring, keeping your space looking polished and bright.

If your hardwood floors seem beyond repair, visit SCV Floorsmith in Aurora. Our experienced flooring experts specialize in restoration and installation work for hardwood, laminate, and engineered flooring. Call today to view samples in our showroom and get a free estimate—or visit our website to learn more about our professional floor care services.