Cleaning Tips

Hardwood Floor Care 101: Pro Tips for a Lasting Shine

Checkers Team

Hardwood floors are a beautiful investment. Learn the proper way to clean and maintain them to prevent damage and keep them looking their best for years to come.

Hardwood Floor Care 101: Pro Tips for a Lasting Shine

Hardwood floors add warmth and value to any home, but they require specific care to maintain their beauty. Using the wrong products or techniques can cause irreversible damage. Here's what our pros recommend.

Routine Maintenance is Key

  • Sweep or Dust Mop Daily: Dirt, dust, and grit are the biggest enemies of a wood floor's finish. A daily sweep with a soft-bristle broom or a microfiber dust mop is the most important step.
  • Vacuum Weekly: Use a vacuum with a soft-bristle floor attachment (or turn off the beater bar) to get dirt from between the boards.
  • Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Water is wood's worst enemy. Never let spills sit. Wipe them up with a soft, dry cloth.

The Right Way to "Mop"

Never use a sopping wet mop on a hardwood floor. Instead, use a "damp mop" method:

  • Choose the Right Cleaner: Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for hardwood floors. Never use vinegar, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners, as they can dull or damage the finish.
  • Lightly Mist: Lightly spray a small section of the floor with the cleaner. Do not pour liquid directly on the floor.
  • Wipe with Microfiber: Use a microfiber mop to wipe the section clean. The mop should be only slightly damp.
  • Work in Sections: Continue this process, section by section, until the entire floor is clean. The floor should dry within a minute or two.

Trust the Professionals with Your Floors

We use the correct, professional-grade products and techniques to safely and effectively clean your hardwood floors as part of our regular service.

Get a Quote That Includes Floor Care

Ready for a Professionally Clean Home?

Let Checkers Home Cleaning take care of the dirty work. Serving Sioux City and Siouxland with pride!