How to Maintain Hardwood Floors

Regular sweeping, damp mopping with hardwood cleaner, and periodic deep cleaning will keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful for decades.

1. Catch Dirt Before It Scratches. Remove dirt and debris with a soft-bristled broom or vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment. This prevents scratches from ground-in particles that act like sandpaper under foot traffic.
2. Damp, Not Wet. Use a barely damp mop with a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner. Wring out excess water completely - standing water can warp boards and damage the finish. Work in sections and dry immediately with a clean cloth.
3. Stop Grit at the Door. Put doormats at all entrances and area rugs in high-traffic zones like hallways and in front of sinks. This catches dirt and moisture before it reaches your floors.
4. Paws Won't Leave Marks. Keep dog and cat nails short to prevent scratches. Place mats under food and water bowls to catch spills before they seep between boards.
5. Balance Beats Cupping. Maintain indoor humidity between 30-50% using humidifiers in winter and dehumidifiers in summer. Wood expands and contracts with moisture changes, causing gaps or cupping.
6. Lift, Never Drag. Stick felt pads under all furniture legs and replace them every few months when they wear thin. Move furniture by lifting, never dragging across the floor.
7. Water's Enemy Is Time. Wipe up any liquid spills within minutes using a dry cloth. For sticky substances, use a slightly damp cloth with hardwood cleaner, then dry thoroughly.
8. Seal In the Shine. When the finish shows wear in high-traffic areas, apply a fresh coat of polyurethane without sanding. This refreshes protection and restores shine.