If you’re the newly proud owner of a hardwood floor, it’s more than worth it to do a little research to keep it in tip top shape. Hardwood floor have many beneficial advantages, but they do need regular care in order to keep them looking their best. Take a look at the following tips to look keep your hardwood looking good long into the future:
Regular Maintenance
Your hardwood needs to be regularly maintained, as such it’s suggested homeowners follow this schedule:
- Sweep or mop on a daily basis (or as close to as you can)
- Vacuum once a week using the correct setting
- Clean with a homemade or recommended floor cleaner monthly
- Give it a maintenance coat every few years
- Every few decades sand and refinish.
Of course, your schedule might be different depending on the wear and tear of the hardwood and your lifestyle. For example if you have pets you may well need to up the ante, whereas if your hardwood doesn’t see much action you can afford to be a little more lax. Remember to try and clean up spills as soon as they happen to avoid any permanent damage.
Rugs are you Friend
One of the best ways to avoid damage to your hardwood floor is to have strategically placed rugs in areas that might be susceptible to wear and tear or damage. This saves the floor and also changes up your decor – win win! If you have hardwood in the kitchen, you should for example place rugs by areas that are regularly exposed to water or stains (such as by the sink).
Use Furniture Pads
This simple addition to the bottom of your furniture won’t cost a lot but it’s bound to save you big in the long term. You can pick up furniture pads for next to nothing, install them incredibly easily, and your floor will never even know they’re there. If you need to move furniture, always ensure to lift as opposed to drag.
