Wood Floor Cleaning: Process & Tips to Keep Your Floors Clean, Beautiful & Durable

Wooden floors are a type of flooring material made from natural wood or industrial wood, bringing natural beauty, luxury and warmth to the living space. Wooden floors are divided into 3 main types: natural wood floors, industrial wood floors and laminate wood floors, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. 

However, if not properly cleaned and maintained, wooden floors are susceptible to dirt, scratches and damage, reducing the life and aesthetics of the floor.

According to research published in Floor Covering Weekly magazine in 2019, up to 68% of damaged wood floors are caused by improper cleaning..

A standard wood floor cleaning process requires preparing all specialized tools and performing the steps of cleaning, vacuuming, mopping, and drying completely. However, each type of wood (natural, industrial, laminate, etc.) has different characteristics, so flexibility is needed for the most effective cleaning process. 

This article will give you a comprehensive look at how to clean and care for wooden floors effectively, as well as guide you in choosing the right wooden floor cleaning products. Let's take a look!

What is Wood Flooring? Classification and Common Problems 

Wooden flooring is a type of flooring material made from natural wood or industrial wood, with many outstanding advantages such as natural beauty, good sound and heat insulation and bringing a warm feeling to the living space. 

Wooden floors are divided into 3 main types: natural wooden floors, industrial wooden floors and laminate wooden floors, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, if not cleaned and maintained properly, wooden floors are very susceptible to dirt, scratches and damage, significantly reducing their lifespan.

1. Classification of wooden floors

Wood flooring is divided into three main types: solid wood flooring, engineered wood flooring and laminate flooring, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Natural wooden floor: Made from 100% natural wood, highly durable, can be reused many times but is expensive and easily affected by humidity and temperature.
• Laminate Flooring: Made from layers of wood pressed together, has a reasonable price, is easy to install and maintain but is less durable than natural wood floors.
• Laminate flooring: It is made up of a layer of wood-printed paper covered on an HDF layer. It is cheap, easy to install and scratch-resistant, but cannot be reused and is prone to blistering if exposed to water.

2. Common problems and solutions

Although wooden floors bring many benefits, if not cleaned and maintained properly, the floor is very susceptible to dirt, scratches and damage. Therefore, mastering the cleaning process and promptly handling arising problems is essential to protect and prolong the life of the floor.

According to research published in Floor Covering Weekly magazine in 2019, up to 68% of damaged wood floors are caused by improper cleaning.

• Wood floors can collect dust, stains and stubborn debris if not cleaned regularly. 
• Using inappropriate cleaning tools and chemicals can damage the surface coating, causing peeling, discoloration or deformation. 
• Wooden floors are also susceptible to scratches from impact, moving heavy objects or pet nails.

Mastering the cleaning process, using effective cleaning tips and promptly handling arising problems are essential to protect, maintain the beauty and prolong the life of wooden floors, while ensuring the health of the family.

What is the Standard Wood Floor Cleaning Process? 

To clean wooden floors properly, first you need to prepare all the necessary tools such as soft broom, vacuum cleaner, cleaning cloth, cleaning solution suitable for each type of floor. Then proceed to clean in order to remove dirt, mop the floor with solution and let the floor dry naturally.

1. Preparation before cleaning

To prepare before cleaning wooden floors, you need to prepare all the necessary tools such as soft broom, vacuum cleaner, cleaning cloth, bucket of water and cleaning solution, and choose the cleaning solution suitable for each type of wooden floor and check the condition of the floor before starting.

Necessary tools:

• Soft broom or vacuum cleaner with soft bristles to remove dust and dirt.
• Microfiber cloth for cleaning floors.
• Bucket of clean water and cleaning solution.
• Microfiber mop or mop specifically designed for wood floors.

Choosing a cleaning solution:

• Choose a specialized solution for the type of wood floor (natural, industrial, laminate…).
• Prefer a solution with neutral pH (pH=7), does not contain strong detergents, acids or alkalis.
• Avoid using soaps, abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals as they may damage the surface finish and colour of the wood floor.

For example: Use Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner, a multi-purpose wood floor cleaner that has been tested for safety and effectiveness by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA).

Check the wooden floor:

• Determine the type of wood floor (natural, industrial, laminate…) to choose the appropriate cleaning method.
• Check the condition of the wooden floor: stains, scratches, warping, gaps...
• Determine the area to be cleaned: the entire floor or just a portion.

2. Steps to clean wooden floors

To clean wooden floors effectively, you need to prepare all the tools, choose the right cleaning solution, then perform the steps of cleaning furniture, vacuuming, wiping the floor along the wood grain with a damp cloth (not soaking wet). Finally, let the floor dry naturally or use a fan, and avoid using it immediately to limit damage.

Clean up the floor: To make cleaning your wood floor easier, tidy up and move objects off the floor before you start cleaning.

Remove dirt:

• Use a soft broom or vacuum cleaner to remove dust, sand, and debris from the wooden floor surface.
• Vacuum thoroughly in crevices, corners, and baseboards to prevent dust from accumulating.

Note: Do not use stiff brushes or metal vacuum cleaner heads as they may scratch the wood floor.

Floor cleaning:

• Mix cleaning solution according to instructions on product label.
• Dip a cloth or mop into the solution, wring it out so that the cloth is damp but not soaking wet.
• Mop the floor in the direction of the wood grain, moving from clean areas to dirtier areas.
• Change water and mop frequently to avoid re-soiling the floor.

Note: Do not pour water or solution directly onto the wooden floor surface as it may damage the floor.

Drying:

• After mopping the floor, let the wood floor dry naturally for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Fans can be used to speed up drying.
• Check the moisture of the wood floor by touching it with your hand. If the floor is still damp, wipe it again with a dry cloth.

Note: Do not use wooden floors immediately after wet mopping to avoid slipping, mold and warping.

Effective Wood Floor Cleaning Tips for Each Floor Type

Natural wood, industrial wood and laminate floors all have their own characteristics and cleaning methods. Natural wood floors need to be cleaned daily with a damp cloth, specialized solutions and periodically polished. Industrial wood floors should be cleaned with a damp cloth, suitable cleaning solutions and scratches treated with a concealer pen. Laminate floors need to be wiped dry, occasionally dampened and protected from standing water.

1. Natural wood flooring

To maintain its beauty and prolong its life, the floor needs to be cleaned and maintained properly by wiping daily with a damp cloth and specialized solution; cleaning stubborn stains with vinegar, baking soda and polishing periodically every 3-6 months.

• Daily cleaning: Use a damp cloth and a cleaning solution specifically designed for natural wood. Avoid using too much water as this can cause warping and cracking of the wood floor.
• Deep cleaning: For stubborn stains, natural methods such as white vinegar or diluted baking soda can be used. However, test a small area first to ensure that you do not damage the floor.
• Maintenance: Polish natural wood floors periodically every 3-6 months with specialized wax to maintain shine and protect the wood surface from scratches and mold.

For example: To clean yellow stains on natural wood floors, mix 1/4 cup white vinegar with 1 liter of warm water, use a soft cloth to absorb the solution and gently wipe the stain. Rinse with clean water and let dry naturally.

2. Laminate flooring

Tips to keep laminate flooring beautiful and durable, prolonging its lifespan is to clean it daily by wiping the floor with a damp cloth, avoiding leaving water on the surface. Use a specialized solution to clean stubborn stains and treat small scratches with a concealer pen or suitable colored wax.

• Daily cleaning: Wipe the floor with a damp cloth, avoiding standing water on the wooden floor surface. Use a vacuum cleaner or soft broom to remove dust.
• Cleaning stains: Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for laminate flooring, avoid using strong detergents, acids or alkalis as they may damage the surface coating.
• Scratch treatment: For minor scratches, a concealer pen or suitable colored wax can be used to cover them up. However, if the scratches are too deep, the wood floor will need to be replaced.

For example: To clean ink stains on laminate flooring, use 90-degree alcohol on a soft cloth and gently wipe the stain. Then wipe again with clean water and let dry naturally.

3. Laminate wood flooring

Although laminate flooring is scratch-resistant, you still need to clean it daily by wiping it dry with a soft broom or vacuum cleaner, and limit the use of water. When wet cleaning is required, use a damp cloth, wring it out thoroughly, wipe quickly and evenly, and dry the floor immediately if it gets wet to avoid blistering.

• Daily cleaning: Dry with a soft broom or vacuum cleaner. Avoid using too much water as this may cause blistering and damage to the floor.
• Wet cleaning: When necessary, use a damp, well-wrung cloth to clean the floor. Move the cloth quickly and evenly across the floor surface to avoid leaving water standing for too long.
• Prevent blistering: Wipe up immediately if the floor gets wet from spilled water or other liquids. Check and treat water-logged areas such as baseboards and door slots promptly.

For example: To clean grease stains on laminate floors, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stain, let it sit overnight to absorb the oil. Then vacuum up the powder and wipe it off with a damp cloth.

4. Other types of wood flooring

In addition to popular types of wooden floors, there are also other types of wooden floors such as bamboo floors and plastic wood floors. In particular, bamboo floors have the same cleaning method as natural wooden floors but need to pay more attention to humidity; while plastic wood floors are easy to clean and water-resistant, they are easily scratched if impacted strongly.

• Bamboo flooring: Cleaning is similar to natural wood floors, but more attention should be paid to humidity because bamboo floors are prone to shrinkage and deformation if exposed to too much water. Use a damp cloth, wring it out thoroughly and wipe in the direction of the bamboo grain.
• Plastic wood flooring: This type of floor is quite easy to clean because it is water resistant. However, you should avoid strong impacts or dropping sharp objects on the surface because it can easily cause scratches or breakage. Clean the floor with a damp cloth and a neutral cleaning solution.

How to Choose the Right Wood Floor Cleaning Products?

When choosing a wood floor cleaning product, it is necessary to base it on criteria such as safety, cleaning and floor protection efficiency, compatibility with each type of floor, and prioritize products with neutral pH and do not contain strong chemicals. 

Common products include specialized floor cleaners, natural cleaning solutions, and special stain removers. However, it is important to read the instructions carefully, test a small area before use, and avoid using harsh chemicals to avoid damaging your wood floor.

1. Selection criteria

When choosing a wood floor cleaning product, it is important to pay attention to safety, cleaning and floor protection efficiency, compatibility with each type of floor, and prioritize products with neutral pH and no strong chemicals to avoid damaging the surface and color of the wood floor.

• Safe for health and environment: Prioritize products with natural ingredients, free of toxic chemicals, safe to use and environmentally friendly.
• Effective cleaning and protection of wooden floors: The product must be able to effectively clean stains, while creating a protective layer to prevent scratches and increase the shine of the wooden floor.
• Suitable for wooden floors: Choose specialized products for each type of wood floor (natural, industrial, laminate...) to ensure compatibility and optimal efficiency.
• Neutral pH, free of harsh chemicals: Avoid using strong acidic or alkaline products, corrosive detergents as they may damage the surface coating and color of the wooden floor.

2. Product types

Popular products for cleaning wood floors include specialized floor cleaners that clean and protect wood surfaces, natural cleaning solutions made from diluted vinegar or baking soda, and detergents specifically designed for stubborn stains.

• Special floor cleaner for wooden floors: This is a specialized product for wooden floors, helping to clean effectively and create a protective layer for the floor surface. For example, Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner.
• Natural cleaning solution: You can make your own wood floor cleaning solution from natural ingredients such as white vinegar or baking soda diluted with water. However, you should pay attention to the mixing ratio and test on a small area before using widely.
• Special stain remover: For stubborn stains such as ink, paint, chewing gum, etc., specialized detergents can be used. 

3. Notes when using wood floor cleaning products

When using wood floor cleaning products, read and follow the instructions on the label carefully, dilute the solution to the correct ratio, test on a small area before using widely, and avoid strong chemicals and corrosive cleaners to protect the surface and color of the wood floor.

• Always read the instructions on the product label carefully before use.
• Dilute the cleaning solution in the correct ratio as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Test product on a small, hidden area before using on entire wood floor surface.
• Avoid using strong chemicals and abrasive cleaners as they may damage the surface finish and colour of the wooden floor.

Frequently Asked Questions When Cleaning Wood Floors

1. Why do wooden floors have gaps and gaps after a period of use?

Reason wooden floor has gaps, gaps Usually caused by humidity, temperature changes, substandard flooring quality, improper installation or floor shrinkage. To fix this, adjust humidity, ventilate, check and tighten screws, add more underlayment or contact a professional repairman.

2. Which wood floor cleaning method is safe for people with allergies?

For people with allergies, cleaning wooden floors requires special attention to removing dirt and allergens: 

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove fine dust and pet hair. 
• Wipe floor with damp cloth, avoid using strong chemicals. 
• Using natural cleaning solutions like diluted vinegar or warm water is a safe choice. 
• Make sure the floor is dry after mopping to avoid mold. 
• Regular and thorough cleaning helps reduce allergens, creating a healthy living space.

To choose the right flooring for allergy sufferers, you can refer to: What type of flooring is suitable for people with allergies? Consider your choice.

3. What color should the walls of a house with wooden floors be painted to create harmony?

Houses with wooden floors should have their walls painted in light colors such as white, cream or pastel colors to create a spacious, airy feeling and highlight the natural beauty of the wooden floor. Avoid dark or contrasting colors. 

See article details What Color Should Wooden Floor House Walls Be Painted? Principles & Top Models to learn about beautiful paint colors as well as important notes.

4. What types of wooden floors are used today?

10 high-quality and affordable laminate flooring: Thaixin, Galamax, Glomax, Kosmos, Vario, Robina, Kronotex, Egger Aqua, Tiger, EcoFloor and Kapan. Prices range from 180.000 VND - 500.000 VND/m2 depending on thickness, surface and core material. See details: https://smartdecor.vn/bao-gia-san-go-cong-nghiep/

If you are looking into the cost of wood flooring, you should refer to detailed information about Wood flooring quotes & tips to help optimize your project budget.

5. Should I use soundproof wooden floors? 

Yes, using soundproof wooden floors brings many benefits such as effectively reducing noise, increasing comfort in living, suitable for many spaces from apartments to villas, easy to install and clean, environmentally friendly and safe for health. 

However, it is necessary to consider the higher cost compared to conventional wooden floors and pay attention to choosing quality products and proper construction to achieve the best soundproofing effect.

Refer to details to understand more about What is soundproof wood flooring? Features, benefits and applications. 

6. Which unit installs reputable wooden floors in Ho Chi Minh City?

SmartDecor is one of the leading units in the field of wooden floor construction in Ho Chi Minh City with many years of experience and prestige affirmed in the market. Below are some reasons to choose SmartDecor:

• Our team of wood flooring installers are highly skilled, well-trained and have many years of experience. We understand the characteristics of each type of wood flooring and apply advanced construction techniques to ensure the best quality for the project.
• SmartDecor provides a variety of high-quality, genuine wooden floors from reputable domestic and foreign brands. Customers can easily choose the type of floor that suits their style and budget.
• With a scientific working process and modern machinery, SmartDecor commits to fast and professional construction from survey, consultation, quotation to handover, ensuring high quality and aesthetics.

With the above advantages, SmartDecor deserves to be one of the choices for wooden floor construction projects in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing perfect wooden floors that are durable over time. Contact us now for advice!