How to keep your wood floor in perfect condition: expert advice

Natural wood flooring is a real luxury in the interior. This material looks great and is very pleasant to use. But it is also sensitive and requires special care.

OBOZ.UA figured out how to properly clean a wooden floor. We also found out what mistakes in care should be avoided if you want it to serve you longer.

Proper wood cleaning requires a combination of dry and wet cleaning. This will help to avoid damaging the surface of the material and protect it from destruction. Here's what you need to do once a day, once a week, and once a month to keep your parquet or plank flooring in good condition.

Daily dry sweeping

Daily cleaning of small debris that falls on the floor will help protect the wood from scratches that lead to more serious damage over time. But you should also choose a soft tool. A broom or brush should not have stiff bristles and be good at picking up everything, even from the corners.

Vacuuming weekly

Vacuuming parquet floors should also be done with a soft nozzle. The reason is the same: to protect the natural wood from scratches. Remember to collect dirt in the corners with a special nozzle. Bacteria and mold can develop in it, which are also dangerous for this type of flooring.

Thorough wet cleaning every month

You should quickly wipe the wooden floor with a damp mop at least once a week after vacuuming. But once a month, it's important to do a really thorough wet cleaning. It should include washing remote corners and difficult places. You can also use special solutions for cleaning wooden surfaces once a month, and then treat them with protective agents.

What mistakes should be avoided when cleaning a wooden floor

First and foremost, keep in mind that you need to avoid anything that could damage the surface of the wood. Put away all scrapers, hard tools, and aggressive products.

Avoid using vinegar. It is too acidic for wood and can dissolve the protective coating and damage the fibers of the natural material. It is better to give preference to proven factory products.

Never leave wet spots on the wood. If water gets on the floor, clean it up immediately with a mop or cloth. Excessive moisture causes the boards to swell, warp, and crack.

Steam cleaning of wooden surfaces is also not recommended. Moisture combined with temperature can damage the material.

When choosing a cleaning agent, pay attention to the labeling. It should be designed specifically for wood. Universal solutions, as well as liquids for tile, vinyl or plastic flooring, are not suitable for natural parquet.

Do not overuse waxing the floor. Dirt will stick to a too thick layer of the product. In addition, the floor will become too slippery.

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