Can You Use Bleach on Hardwood Floors?

Bleach is a strong cleaning agent known for its ability to remove stains from laundry and hard surfaces like ceramic tile. 

But what about hardwood floors? Is it safe to use bleach on them? The answer is yes, but you need to be extremely careful.

Bleach can tackle tough stains by breaking down chemical bonds, making it a useful solution for water stains and discoloration; issues that can affect even the sturdiest wood floors. Spills and stains are bound to happen, and since hardwood flooring is a significant investment, using bleach can help you save money on maintenance. However, it’s essential to use it correctly to avoid damaging your wood floors. Keep on reading to learn how to do it properly.

What wooden floors can be bleached?

While most types of wood flooring can be bleached, it’s important to use caution. Bleach and other harsh chemicals require special care. Hardwood is among the most durable flooring options, but it still needs to be treated carefully. 

A few key points to remember:

• Bleach should typically be used for exterior finished wood surfaces or non-porous surfaces like ceramic tile, vinyl, and linoleum.
• Never use bleach on marble surfaces.
• Always dilute the bleach when using it on hard surfaces or fabric.

Consulting with a flooring specialist is always a good idea to ensure you’re making the best choice for your specific wood type. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance!

Now, let’s dive into the types of hardwood floors that are suitable for this cleaning process. Not all of them react well to bleach, so knowing the difference is crucial to achieving the desired results without causing damage.

1. Maple can also be bleached, but it requires a bit more care. This wood has a dense grain and can sometimes be more challenging to bleach evenly, but with the right approach, it can yield good results.
2. Birch can be bleached, but like maple, it requires careful application to ensure even results. Its close grain can sometimes make the bleaching process a bit trickier.
3. Ash is another hardwood that responds well to bleaching. Its light color and consistent grain make it an ideal candidate for this process.
4. Though not technically a hardwood, pine is often used for flooring and can be bleached. However, it’s softer than true hardwoods, so extra care must be taken to avoid damage during the bleaching process.
5. Beech can be bleached effectively. Its fine grain and light color make it a good choice for those looking to achieve a uniform, lighter appearance.
6. Gumwood can also be successfully bleached, maintaining a good appearance and durability.

No-go’s

1. Exotic woods like mahogany and Brazilian cherry are not good candidates for bleaching. These woods are prized for their natural color and do not take bleach well. 
2. Oak is a common choice for hardwood flooring, but white oak is not well-suited for bleaching as it often discolors.
3. It’s also important not to assume this advice applies to fake wood flooring. Alternatives like laminate react differently to bleach and can be completely ruined by it. Laminate, often mistaken for wood, is a composite material with a plastic top layer that can be severely damaged by bleach.

Steps for cleaning wood floors with bleach

1. Choose the right bleach

First, determine the best type of bleach for your wood flooring. There are different bleach products to use based on your specific needs:

• Oxalic acid: A gentle disinfectant for hardwood floors that provides a deep clean. It’s effective for removing dark stains from water or rust.
• Household bleach: Ideal for removing stains like ink, blood, and beverages. Using chlorine bleach is similar to using it on clothes – proper application is crucial to avoid causing unwanted stains.
• Two-part bleach kits: Designed for the toughest, most stubborn stains. These kits usually contain hydrogen peroxide and sodium hydroxide and should be used only for the most difficult stains.

2. Prepare the floor

Prepare the area by using a sander or a chemical stripping agent to remove the existing finish. Sanding is typically preferred over chemical strippers due to the latter’s toxicity and the need for special handling. 

During sanding, you might remove much of the stain, reducing the amount of bleach needed.

3. Dilute the bleach

Clean the floor to remove visible dirt and stains. Next, dilute the bleach. Do that by mixing a solution of ⅓ cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water. Test a less-visible section of the wood floor first to see how the treatment affects your particular floor. Do not use bleach if any part of the finish is worn or discolored.

4. Apply the bleaching agent

Using a stiff brush, apply the bleaching agent to the stain. Ensure even pressure while working the bleach into the stain. After application, leave the bleach on for 10 minutes, then evaluate the stain and reapply if necessary.

5. Disinfect the floors

Apply the bleach solution to your floor and allow it to sit wet for approximately 5 minutes.

6. Neutralize the bleach and clean up

For oxalic acid or chlorine bleach, use white vinegar to neutralize the bleach before wiping up the water. Two-part bleaching kits usually include a neutralizing agent.

Apply liquids sparingly to avoid oversaturating the wood, which can cause swelling or discoloration. Thoroughly rinse off your hardwood flooring and allow it to air dry.

Tip: Keep kids and pets away until the floor is completely dry.

7. Reapply a finish

Reapply a finish to protect your floor. This step is essential for maintaining a scratch-resistant surface, especially if you have pets. Without a proper finish, your newly bleached floor is vulnerable to damage, putting you back to square one with sanding and refinishing.

Bleaching hardwood floors can be an effective method for removing tough stains and restoring the natural beauty of your flooring. However, it requires careful consideration of the type of wood, proper preparation, and meticulous application to ensure the best results without causing damage. First Atlanta Flooring is a trusted source for premium flooring products, featuring a wide curated selection of leading brands. If you require assistance in cleaning your hardwood floors, contact us.