What Can I Put on Hardwood Floors to Make Them Less Slippery?

/ floors and interiors / By
Hardwood floors look stylish, are durable, and long-lasting, but one major drawback is how slippery they can be. If you have children, pets, or are a little older, it can be quite dangerous, but there are things you can do to make you floor safer.  Take a look at these tips: Keep it Clean Hardwood floors are not naturally slippery, but can become so if they’re not cleaned regularly. Then there’s the question of what to clean it with – certain products can make your floor even more accident prone! Your floor will also understandably become slippery after being waxed or varnished, so be sure to clean the residue up after a suitable time. You should also clean up any spills as soon as possible. Try the Following Check with your manufacturer for the best way to clean your hardwood floor, but generally you can make a mix and clean most floors successfully by doing the following:
  • Sweep the floor to remove dirt and dust
  • Make a solution with vinegar (1 cup) and water (1 gallon)
  • Mop floor, wringing out regularly so the floor isn’t too damp
  • Wipe with dry towel
Use Non-Slip Treatments Your local homeware store will have non-slip treatments you can use – just remember to test them out on an inconspicuous area first as you don’t want to cause any damage to the wood. Again, the manufacturer may have advice on which products work best with your floor.    Use Area Rugs Area rugs and runner carpets are another way in which you can minimize the risk of slips and falls. You should use these in areas that receive the lion’s share of the foot traffic. If you don’t want to ruin the overall aesthetic of your hardwood floor, place doormats at entrances and encourage your family into the habit of not wearing shoes inside. The Finish This only applies if you’re looking for new hardwood floors – check what finishes are available and which is most suitable for your home.