Hardwood floors can become quite dirty in these high-traffic business environments. From muddy shoes to spilled beverages, hardwood floors take a beating. If you do not properly clean them, the accumulated grime will dull the wood and may even shorten its life.
Fortunately, cleaning high-traffic wooden floors is relatively simple. Of course, the best course of action is to hire professional cleaners to avoid accidentally damaging the wood. However, the tips below can help you achieve the same level of success as the professionals.
Unfinished or Sealed
Before you begin cleaning hardwood floors, you must determine whether they are sealed, coated, or unfinished. If the floors are sealed/coated, you can use a little more water (for example, to scrub away some stubborn stains); if they are not, you must be careful not to soak them.
If you're unsure whether your hardwood floors have been sealed/coated, you can perform a dropper test. Simply drop a few drops onto the floor and observe how quickly they are absorbed. If the answer is yes, the floor is unfinished or has been varnished. If the water drops do not absorb into the floor, either polyurethane or acrylic can be used to seal or coat the floor.
Vacuum or Sweep
After inspecting your hardwood floors' finish, the next step is to remove as much debris as possible. This will keep sharp particles from scratching the wood's surface.
This step can be accomplished with either a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner equipped with a soft roller head. Avoid anything excessively stiff, like sharp particles, that can cause damage to your hardwood floors.
Utilize a Gentle Cleanser
After sweeping or vacuuming away the dirt and dust from your hardwood floors, you can begin the cleaning process. You can either purchase a product that has been specially formulated or make your own using warm water and a mild cleanser such as castile soap. These can be used daily for mopping.
Meanwhile, you'll need an alkaline cleaning solution for soiled hardwood. Ascertain that it is water-based to avoid damage. Additionally, follow the label's usage instructions for the best results. Never use bleach or anything acidic on your hardwood floors; furniture wax is also not recommended because it can stain the wood and cause uneven coloration.
According to the experts at Lilly's Cleaning Service, Inc., the best option for the mop would be a microfiber mop. It's ideal for both wet and dry mopping, and with proper care, it can also last a very long time. More importantly, a microfiber mop is soft enough that you won't scratch your floors unintentionally.
Go With the Grain
A quick tip for mopping hardwood floors: always mop in the direction of the grain. Additionally, make sure that the mop is slightly damp or completely dry. Never use a soaking wet mop on hardwood floors, even if you are certain they are sealed.
Buff to Shine
After mopping and drying, it's time to buff your hardwood floors. Buffing machines are available for purchase or rental, but this process can also be performed manually. Utilize a soft cloth or a dampened microfiber mop with an appropriate polish.
When it comes to homemade buffing solutions, some swear by olive oil or similar products. If you want to do it yourself, simply follow the previously mentioned advice and avoid bleach or acid-based cleaners.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Finally, but certainly not least, high-traffic wooden floors require routine maintenance. Do sweep or vacuum frequently to prevent dirt from accumulating. If you manage a restaurant or coffee shop, set aside some time to do some cleaning.
Additionally, you should clean up spills immediately, especially if you have unsealed wooden floors. If you do not immediately clean up the mess, the liquid will seep into the wood and ruin it. A tennis ball or an eraser can be used to quickly remove scuff marks. Additionally, you can rub the stain away with a microfiber cloth. If you have any problems, you can hire professional cleaners for residential cleaning Gaithersburg, Montgomery County, MD.
Conclusion
As you can see, maintaining your hardwood floors is quite simple. The critical factor here is consistency. If you're able to clean and buff wooden floors regularly, they'll remain in excellent condition for years to come!