Hardwood floors can be the most beautiful part of a home. They add elegance and provide a strong visual foundation. Hardwood is unique in its qualities, and no other flooring adds value to a home the way wood does.

However, hardwood’s biggest drawback is durability. Hardwood flooring maintenance is essential because wood floors require close care to stay in good condition. Any type of liquid spill can cause severe warping and may even damage nearby walls. Hardwood floors are also susceptible to scratches from pets or moving furniture, and prolonged direct sunlight can fade their color.

The many benefits of wood flooring are lost if hardwood floor maintenance is ignored. Knowing how to maintain hardwood floors properly helps protect your investment. Below are some simple and effective Do’s and Don’ts of hardwood flooring maintenance.

(To learn how to maintain other types of flooring, call us at 661-476-5034 for more information.)

DO’s of Hardwood Floor Maintenance

Clean Up Spills Immediately

Liquid spills can cause long-term damage to wood floors by warping the planks. The easiest way to prevent this is to clean up every spill right away. Wipe it up as soon as possible and make sure the area is completely dry.

Use Rugs and Mats in High-Traffic Areas

Place area rugs in high-traffic zones to reduce wear and tear. Put mats at front and back doors to stop mud and water from being tracked inside. Always use breathable mats so moisture does not get trapped underneath the floor.

Protect Floors From Furniture and Pets

Install rubber pads under heavy furniture, especially pieces with narrow legs. Moving furniture without protection can badly scratch wood floors. Keep your pets’ nails trimmed to reduce scratching.

One way to hide scratches is to install hand-scraped or distressed hardwood floors. These floors are pre-textured and help mask marks caused by pets or furniture over time.

DON’Ts of Hardwood Flooring Maintenance

Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products

Do not use cleaners that contain ammonia on wood floors. Avoid wax-based products, acrylic finishes, detergents, bleach, polish, oil soaps, and vinegar. Instead, use a proper hardwood floor cleaning solution. Spray it on a dust mop and clean regularly.

Don’t Wear High Heels or Wet Shoes Indoors

Try not to walk on hardwood floors while wearing stiletto heels. The pressure from the narrow heel can dent and bend the wood. If it is raining or snowing, remove your shoes before walking on the floor. Tile can handle moisture and dirt, but wood cannot.

Never Sand Engineered Hardwood Floors

Do not attempt to sand an engineered wood floor. True hardwood can be sanded multiple times, but engineered wood only has a thin top layer of real wood over plywood. Sanding it can permanently damage the floor.

If your engineered floor needs attention, it can be buffed and then coated with a polyurethane finish instead.

Final Thoughts on Hardwood Flooring Maintenance

These are some essential Do’s and Don’ts of hardwood flooring maintenance. Hardwood floors are a smart and beautiful investment, but they require proper care. Understanding how to maintain hardwood floors helps preserve their beauty, durability, and value for years to come.

If you want expert help, we are the premier Valencia Flooring Company. Call us today at 661-476-5034.