How to Clean And Maintain Engineered Hardwood Floors?

An engineered hardwood floor is different from a traditional hardwood floor. The latter is made of wood alone while the former has several layers. The surface of an engineered hardwood comes with an authentic hardwood, and the underlying layers are high-density fiberboard or plywood.

If you want to avert permanent staining of your hardwood floor, you should clean it frequently. You can start the process with a broom and dustpan. As days roll by, you can step up to liquid cleaners recommended by manufacturers.

Here are some methods that can be used to clean engineered hardwood floors so as to get the best outcome.

Method 1: Clean Up Dirt and Debris With Broom

Tools & Ingredients:

• Broom

• Dustpan

Step By Step Process:

Step 1: Use a soft-bristled brush to sweep debris and dirt in both hidden as well as open places in your home. You should carry out the sweeping every day so as to get the best result.

Step 2: Sweep the dust and dirt into a dustpan before disposing of it outside.

Method 2: Vacuum the Floor

Tools & Ingredients:

• Vacuum cleaner

Step 1: Get a good vacuum cleaner, and set the mode to “hard floor” to incapacitate the rotating bristle bar. The rotating bristle will scuff and scratch the floor’s veneer surface.

Step 2: Vacuum the floor gently to get rid of all the dirt, grime, and dust.

Method 3: Mop With a Slightly Damp Mop

Tools & Ingredients:

• Mop

• Towel

Step 1: Soak a mop in the water and wring out water completely.

Step 2: Apply the damp mop on the hardwood floor, making sure that every part is reached.

Step 3: Use a towel to clean excess water on the floor.

Method 4: Remove Stains with a Liquid Cleaner

• Liquid cleaner

• Sponge mop or clean cloth

• Paper towel

Step 1: Get a liquid cleaner that is right for your hardwood floor. If you use the wrong type of liquid cleaner, it may damage your floor.

Step 2: Apply some amount of the liquid cleaner to a stained spot.

Step 3: Use a sponge mop or clean cloth to wipe the surface of the hardwood until the stain is eliminated. You can add cleaner if need be.

Step 4: Wipe excess liquid cleaner with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Pro-Tip:

Use your hand to scrub small spaces that a mop cannot reach. Do not use liquid cleaners for vinyl or tile flooring because they can damage your hardwood floor. You can use a few recommended steam mops for your hardwood floors for safety.

Tips for Maintaining Your Engineered Hardwood Floor:

• Vacuum regularly to keep your hardwood floor clean : 

Vacuuming is a very crucial step towards keeping your hardwood floor clean and dirt-free. Choose the right vacuum cleaner and keep it ready with the hard floor mode. This has to be done at all cost because here the rotating bristle bar will not come into play. Vacuum it carefully and thoroughly so that no dirt or dust is left behind. Many people opt for a broom, which would probably not be effective and might cause damage owing to the use of water.

• Use a Damp Cloth or Mop Only: 

Experts advise that you should clean engineered hardwood flooring with a damp cloth or mop only. The uppermost layer of the floor is made of hardwood, and you need to take proper care of it to prevent damage and wearing off.

• Clean Up Spills Quickly: 

If you expose your floor to excessive liquid, it can damage it. Hence, you should clean up spills immediately they occur so as to prevent damage to your floor.

• Sweep or Dust Before Mopping: 

You should endeavor to sweep or dust before going ahead with mopping. This will get rid of debris and dirt so that they will not damage your floor.

• Put Furniture and heavy devices on Felt Pads:

To prevent scratches and nicks on your floor, you should put your furniture and houseplants on felt pads or soft coasters. Direct placement can damage your floor thereby leading to a shorter lifespan.

• Put a Mat On The Entrance:

Placing a mat on the entrance will reduce the amount of dirt getting into your home. If you have more than one entrance, you should place mats at all entrances.

• Don’t Allow Stiletto or Spike Heels:

Spiletto or spike heels can damage the topmost part of your floor. Hence, you should prevent their use on your floor so that it can last longer.

Final Words:

It is easy to clean engineered hardwood floors if you go through this piece properly. With the right tools and methods, you can get satisfactory results at all times.