How to Protect Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors aren’t just beautiful, they’re also an investment in your home’s long-term value. Whether they were there when you moved in or you scrimped and saved to have them laid, your hardwoods are worth protecting.

Luckily, keeping your floors shiny and new isn’t hard. Our hardwood experts put together this quick list of tips for protecting your hardwood floors.

Clean Your Floor Weekly

No matter how careful you are, your floors will end up with dust, dirt, and crumbs. That’s why it’s important to develop a weekly cleaning routine.

You should clean your hardwoods with a wood-safe cleaner at least once a week, following a once-over with. Your vacuum. But for an even cleaner home, sweep up dust every day or two to make sure it doesn’t accumulate.

Stop Dirt at the Door

It might seem simple but placing doormats at your entryways is the surest way to make sure dirt stops at the door. Taking off your shoes when you step inside is another easy way to keep the outdoors on the outside.

Prevent Water Damage

Water damage can have a catastrophic effect on even the toughest hardwoods. Leaving water to sit too long can discolor your floors and even warp their shape.

Always clean up spills as quickly as they happen to keep your floors healthy for the long haul.

Use the Right Cleaning Products

The wrong cleaning products may do a decent job cleaning up dirt and dust, but they can do long-term damage to any hardwood. Vinegar can dull wood, soap-based cleaners leave a residue, and steam cleaners can warp the shape of your hardwood planks.

You should always follow your manufacturer’s guide’s cleaning recommendations, including the products it suggests. Products specifically labelled for hardwood use will also be safe and effective.

Place Rugs Under Furniture

Believe it or not, your furniture can scrape your hardwoods, even if you’re not dragging it from one place to the other. An area rug and a rug pad placed under heavy sofas, tables, and desks can add an extra layer of protective cushioning for your floors.

You can also place rugs in high-traffic areas like the living room and hallway to prevent wear and tear.

Got more questions about flooring care? Our team at Carpet Mart in Louisville, has the expertise you need to keep your floors safe and healthy for years to come!