In this article, we’ll explore practical techniques for how to make wood floors shine. Understanding the floor’s finish and using the right cleaning products are crucial steps in maintaining hardwood surfaces. By following these guidelines, you can enhance the appearance and longevity of your hardwood floors, ensuring they remain the focal point of any space. Keep reading if you want to achieve professional-grade results.
1. Determine the finish on your hardwood floors
Before choosing the tools and methods to make wood floors shine, you have to determine the type of finish on your hardwood floors. To do that, conduct a simple test. Start by identifying the areas with normal foot traffic. Place a drop of water on the floor in one of these spots. If the water is quickly absorbed or causes spotting on the finish, it indicates that the hardwood hasn’t been sealed and should never be cleaned with water. However, if the water bead remains on the surface without absorption, it means that the hardwood has been sealed, allowing for water-based cleaning methods.
For wood floors finished with paste wax, perform another test. Take some steel wool and gently rub it over a corner of the floor. If the floor has been waxed, you’ll notice a gray, waxy film left on the steel wool.
These two tests will help you choose the proper cleaning methods and products to make wood floors shine.
2. Vacuum wood floors before cleaning them
Before applying any cleaning solution to your hardwood floors, it’s advisable to start by vacuuming them to eliminate dirt and debris.
We endorse canister vacuums since they offer superior suction power and exert less pressure on the wood surface during cleaning, ensuring effective yet gentle maintenance. We do not recommend the standard vacuum cleaners as they are typically tailored for carpets and may exert excessive force. Also, most of them come with plastic wheels which can leave scratches and dents on hardwood surfaces.
Alternatively, if you’re not keen on using a vacuum, sweeping the floors beforehand is also effective.
3. Choose the best tools
Some products can cause permanent damage to hardwood floors, so it would be best to avoid them. Bleach, vinegar, ammonia-based solutions, and glass cleaning products are just some of them. Before trying out any new cleaning solution, whether it’s from the store or homemade, it’s a good idea to give it a test run on a hidden spot of the floor. You can experiment with it under furniture, for example, to see how it works before using it all over the area.
Preserving the structure and finish of hardwood floors requires careful treatment and the use of appropriate cleaning products. Here are our top products to make wood floors shine:
- Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner is a water-based formula with a biodegradable composition that effectively removes dirt and grime without leaving residue. It’s suitable for various finishes.
- For urethane-finished floors, MAPEI Ultrasound Urethane Cleaner offers professional-grade cleaning, removing dirt and grease without causing damage or discoloration.
- The Bona Pro Series Hardwood Cleaner, available in both cartridge and refill sizes, caters to light and heavy-duty cleaning needs, tackling tough stains and residue buildup while being safe for pets and children.
- Finally, the Bona Pro Series Hardwood Floor Refresher restores shine, fills scratches, and extends the life expectancy of hardwood floors.
Next, moving on to the tools, you want to opt for:
- Soft mops, to ensure gentle cleaning without risking harm to the floor.
- Canister vacuums, specifically designed for hardwood floors.
4. Damp mop the floors
To make wood floors shine, use a lightly dampened microfiber mop and move in line with the wood grain to clean effectively. Avoid using an overly wet mop, as excessive moisture can lead to buckling, even on sealed floors.
5. Buff dry
Finish the cleaning process by buffing the floor with a completely dry microfiber mop to avoid streaking. Consider using cloth diapers to make wood floors even more shinier. The soft cotton material is gentle on hardwood and effectively absorbs any remaining moisture, eliminating streaks and enhancing the floor’s natural shine.
6. Seal wood floors every few years
Apply a sealant to your floors every few years to protect them against damage and maintain their optimal appearance. Combining a sealant with a hardwood finish can rejuvenate your wooden floors, giving them a fresh and polished look.
7. Protect the floors daily
To make wood floors shine, you have to ensure ongoing protection for them.
- Choose the appropriate cleaning solution to prevent damage.
- Avoid walking on hardwood floors with high heels to prevent chips or dents.
- Immediately wipe up any wet spills as they happen, to prevent watermarks.
- Use felt pads under furniture legs to mitigate scratching and holes.
- Place rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize wear and tear.
First Atlanta Flooring is a trusted source for premium hardwood floor cleaners, featuring a wide curated selection of leading brands and products. Contact us today to discover effective solutions that will make wood floors shine!
