Hardwood floors can really add that extra touch of luxury to your home that you just don’t get from carpets or laminate. However, this look can come at a price, and it will necessitate a little bit more TLC in order to keep it looking as good as the day it was installed. Obviously not walking on your floors isn’t a practical option so just how do you protect your hardwood floor and keep it looking its best?

Do Not Mop

Water and wood is not a good combination, if you don’t want to cause water damage to your maple wood flooring then avoid using a mop. If you absolutely have to deep clean your wood floor then use a barely wet cloth to wipe it, then dry off with a towel as soon as you can. Never use hot water on your wood floors, lukewarm water will be fine.

Sweep Clean

Even the smallest particles of dust, dirt or gravel can damage the surface of your wood floor by scratching it or making it duller. Remember to sweep your floors regularly using a nice soft brush, this will eliminate those particles that could damage your floor and shorten its life. If you spill something on your floor never let the spill sit – it is important to clean it up as soon as possible with a soft cloth; make sure the floor is completely dry once you have finished. Dried on spills can be hard to remove or can even penetrate the surface of the wood, leading to damaged boards.

Remove Your Shoes

Your shoes will track dirt and dust into your home so make sure that you take them off at the door to avoid tracking it through your home and potentially damaging your floors. Shoes with heels, even if they don’t have any dirt on them, can still damage your floors by making small dents in the surface so make sure you remove them indoors.

Vacuum Carefully

Whilst sweeping with a soft brush is definitely the best way to clean your hardwood floor it is possible to use a vacuum on them as well. Make sure that you use the appropriate attachment for hardwood floors as this is designed specially to get all the dust and dirt up, whilst still being gentle to your floor. It is also important to make sure that you do not drag your vacuum around your floor as this could result in scratches.

Use Rugs

Over time, no matter how careful you are, there are some areas of your hardwood flooring that will begin to look more worn. Place them in high traffic areas such as hallways. For an extra stylish touch, you could also place them under large items of furniture, as an alternative to cushioned feet pads. Don’t forget to use mats inside your doors to help trap the dirt and grit that people bring in on their shoes; they may also act as a reminder to family and visitors to remove their shoes in your home.

Follow the simple tips above, and you should avoid having to replace your wooden floor for years to come.