Hardwood floors bring warmth and elegance to any space—but they need regular care to stay beautiful. Dirt, spills, and daily foot traffic can quickly dull their shine or cause damage if ignored. The key is a simple, consistent cleaning routine, starting with the right tools and methods.
In this blog, we’ll cover how to clean hardwood floors effectively: from the tools you’ll need and safe cleaning techniques to vacuuming, disinfecting, polishing, and setting up a routine that keeps your floors looking their best.
What to Clean Hardwood Floors with?
Not all cleaning products are safe for hardwood, and using the wrong ones can dull the finish or even cause damage over time. Here is what to use to clean hardwood floors:
- Soft-bristled broom
- Flat mop with microfiber pads
- pH-neutral wood floor cleaner (or a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid)
- Bucket
- Soft, lint-free cloths or towels
- Vacuum with hardwood setting
How Do You Clean Hardwood Floors?
Follow these detailed steps to clean hard wood floors thoroughly.
- Remove loose dirt and debris:Sweep with a soft broom or vacuum on the hardwood setting so dirt won’t scratch the surface.
- Prepare your cleaning solution:Add a little pH-neutral floor cleaner (or a drop of dish soap) to warm water. Skip harsh chemicals.
- Mop lightly: Use a microfiber mop that’s damp, not wet.Mop in the direction of the wood grain to pick up any lingering dirt.
- Deep Clean if Needed:For stubborn grime, rub with cleaner and a microfiber cloth or soft scrub pad. Wipe dry immediately.
- Dry the Floor: Go over floors with a dry microfiber cloth or mop to prevent moisture seeping into seams.
- Buff the Floor(Optional): Use a soft cloth to restore shine, especially on polished floors.
Note: Engineered wood is easier to maintain and less prone to warping, so a robot vacuum with mopping can make life easier. For example, the eufy Omni S1 Pro handles both vacuuming and mopping automatically, saving you time while keeping floors fresh.
How to Fix Scratches on a Wood Floor?
Minor scratches can often be hidden with a wood stain marker or a repair kit matched to your floor’s finish.
For shallow marks, lightly rub in the stain and buff with a soft cloth.
Deeper scratches may need filler or wax sticks before resealing.
In severe cases, sanding and refinishing the affected area is the most reliable solution.
Always clean the spot first to remove dust, and test products on an inconspicuous area to ensure a good match.
How to Maintain Hardwood Floors?
Consistent care keeps hardwood floors looking beautiful for years:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt from scratching the surface.
- Mop with a damp microfiber mop and pH-neutral cleaner every few weeks.
- Quickly wipe up spills to avoid staining or warping.
- Place mats at entrances and felt pads under furniture to reduce wear.
- Polish occasionally to restore shine, and schedule professional deep cleaning or refinishing as needed.
- Avoid harsh cleaners such as bleach, ammonia, or anything too acidic, and never use excess water, as both can damage the wood.
Conclusion
Taking proper care of your hardwood floors doesn’t have to be daunting. By following the guidelines on how to clean hardwood floors discussed in this guide, from determining the cleaning frequency to using the right tools and methods, you can ensure your floors stay beautiful and durable for years to come.
FAQs about How to Clean Hardwood Floors
How often to clean hardwood floors?
How often you clean hardwood floors depends on foot traffic, pets, and kids.
For general care, sweep or vacuum weekly to prevent dirt from scratching the surface. In busy households or high-traffic spots, clean every few days.
Use a wood floor cleaner for deeper cleaning every two to four weeks to remove grime and protect the finish.
Seasonal factors matter too—during rainy or snowy weather, clean more often to prevent tracked-in moisture and mud from damaging the wood.
What is the best thing to clean hardwood floors with?
The best way to clean hardwood floors is with a microfiber mop and a pH-neutral wood floor cleaner diluted in warm water. This combo removes dirt effectively without harming the finish. A few drops of mild dish soap also work for light cleaning. Always wring the mop thoroughly so it’s damp, not wet—too much water can cause warping and shorten the life of your hardwood.
What should you not use on hardwood floors?
Avoid bleach, ammonia, vinegar in high concentrations, abrasive cleaners, and steam mops on hardwood. These can strip the finish, dull the shine, or damage the wood fibers. Excess water is also harmful, as it can seep into seams and cause swelling or warping. Stick to gentle, pH-neutral cleaners made specifically for hardwood floors to protect both the look and durability of your flooring.
How to polish wood floors?
Polishing restores shine to hardwood floors and adds a protective layer against daily wear. You don’t need to do it every time; once every few months is enough. Start by choosing a water-based polish suited to your floor’s finish (polyurethane or wax). Clean thoroughly to remove dust and residue. Apply polish in small sections with a flat mop or cloth, let it dry for at least an hour, and optionally buff with a soft cloth for extra shine.
