Engineered hardwood floors are appreciated by homeowners for their durability, ease in installation, and for the style and elegance they add to a room. Sometimes…life gets messy. At the best there is always regular cleaning that any floor calls for. Read on to find out how to clean engineered hardwood floors.
No Such Thing as a Maintenance-Free Floor
Every type of flooring collects dirt, dust, dander, and other things. You’ve got to remember what a beating your floor takes. It is walked on, played on, and if you have pets…well, there’s no telling what else may happen on it.
Engineered hardwood flooring has a ton of benefits but they do tend to show dirt and dust more than some other options since it provides a smoother surface sporting less nooks and crannies that most. Thus, when your dog or kid tracks in dirt or dust settles, you’ll see it on your floor.
Clean Sweep
Even brand new flooring requires regular cleaning but that doesn’t mean you have to hire a cleaning service. It’s quite easy to do it yourself and once you get started, you will no doubt get a routine going where you have regular cleans and periodic deeper cleans as well.
You’ll want to keep your floor swept so the dust and such doesn’t get out of control. You can use most any type of broom as long as you make sure it’s not too stiff or hard because you don’t want to scratch your flooring while sweeping it. Swiffers are great options as are lightweight vacuums providing there isn’t a rotating bar inside the apparatus. Also, be sure to turn the beater bar of the vacuum off if there is one.
Needless to say, how often you sweep will be determined by how often your floor needs it. If you live in a very dry and dusty area, you may need to sweep every day. If you have a dog that sheds, you’ll want to sweep every day or two. But, in the event that not much dirt, dander, and dust accumulate, you can certain go longer in between sweeps.
Mopping
After sweeping, mop your engineered wood floor periodically. The frequency will depend upon how much and what kind of activity goes on in the room, of course. Doubtfully will you need to mop it every day.
When you mop, use a damp mop, not a soaking wet one so you preserve the finish of your flooring. The type of mop depends on your preference. Any soft mop will work fine. Be careful not to leave any standing water on the flooring. The mop should only be damp enough to distribute enough water that evaporates within a few minutes after going over it.
If you use a cleaning solution on your mop, be sure it’s a gentle one that is approved for engineered wood flooring. If you were the one who had the flooring installed, check the instructions that came with it for cleaning solution recommendations.
Deep Cleaning
Every area of your home deserves special attention every now and then like you walls, cabinets, windows, and yes…your engineered wood flooring. There are a few deep cleaning products on the market you may want to use occasionally. Do be sure the solution is designed specifically for engineered hardwood floors. Never use solutions with harsh cleaners because the outcome can be irreversible.
Scratching the Surface
Scratches happen. If your engineered wood gets a scratch on it, don’t fret. This type of flooring is good at resisting scratches but no floor is foolproof. In the event yours does get one, you have several options of how to repair the damage.
A scratch concealer is an effective way to make the mark less noticeable. You can find them at a hardware store. You can also use a liquid furniture polish that stains the surface. Whichever route you go, the goal is not only to cover the scratch but to add a barrier between the bare spot from the elements that come in contact with it such as
Avoid at All Cost
Taking care of your engineered wood flooring means tending to cleaning and maintenance but also means avoiding certain things. Don’t use wax-based cleaners on your flooring because it will accumulate over time. Oil soaps should be avoided too. Never use steel wool or it will scratch the surface. Be cautious when using “Mr. Clean” sponges because it can take the finish off. Ammonia is a definite “no no”.
Once you get the hang of taking care of your engineered hardwood flooring, you’ll appreciate the ease in which it cleans and the beauty of it after you have cleaned it.
