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How to Keep Your Newly Refinished Hardwood Floors Looking Beautiful

Author: Derek Swegle
Jan 26, 2025

Congratulations on having your hardwood floors refinished! Now that they’re looking pristine and beautiful, you might be wondering how to keep them that way. Proper maintenance and routine cleaning are essential to preserving the longevity and elegance of your floors. Here are some tips and general guidelines to help you maintain their stunning appearance:


Routine Hardwood Floor Cleaning

1. Daily Dusting Dust and dirt can act like sandpaper, scratching the surface of your hardwood floors. To prevent this, make a habit of dusting or sweeping your floors daily. Use a microfiber dust mop or a soft-bristle broom to capture dust and debris effectively without scratching the surface.

2. Weekly Vacuuming Vacuuming your hardwood floors once a week helps remove dirt and particles that dusting may miss. Ensure your vacuum cleaner is equipped with a hardwood floor setting or a soft-bristle brush attachment to avoid damaging the finish. Avoid using vacuums with hard plastic wheels, as they can cause scratches.

3. Monthly Deep Cleaning At least once a month, give your hardwood floors a more thorough cleaning. Use a hardwood floor cleaner that is specifically formulated for your type of finish. Avoid using water and vinegar, soap-based cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can dull the finish and damage the wood over time. Apply the cleaner to a damp (not wet) microfiber mop and clean in the direction of the wood grain.


General Guidelines

1. Felt Furniture Pads Use felt pads on all furniture legs that touch the floor. Check these pads every few months to ensure they are in good condition. If your furniture has plastic nubs, remove them and attach felt pads directly to the legs to prevent scratches.

2. Rug Placement To ensure the longevity and beauty of your wood floors, consider the following rug placement tips:

Always use a 100% felt rug pad under rugs, as other materials like rubber or plastic can damage the wood finish.

Wood floors are highly photosensitive. In spaces where wood floors are exposed to direct sunlight, it's recommended to adjust rug placement every few months to prevent hard lines of discoloration.

Keep rugs or mats in wet areas such as the kitchen sink and refrigerator to protect against water damage and stains.

3. Moving Furniture Always lift and set furniture in place. Do not push or scoot heavy items, as this can damage the floors, even with felt pads or moving blankets.

4. Walk-off Mats It is highly recommended to place walk-off mats or door mats at every exterior door directly over the wood floors. This helps reduce dirt and moisture brought indoors, keeping your floors cleaner for longer.


Protecting High-Traffic Areas

High-traffic areas, such as entryways and hallways, are more susceptible to wear and tear. Place doormats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture before it reaches your floors. Area rugs and runners can also help protect high-traffic zones. Be sure to use rug pads that are safe for hardwood floors to prevent slipping and protect the finish.


Managing Spills Promptly

Accidents happen, and when they do, it's crucial to clean up spills immediately to prevent water damage and staining. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to blot up spills, and avoid using excessive water. For stubborn stains, consult a hardwood floor professional for advice on safe removal techniques.


Regular Maintenance Coats

To ensure your hardwood floors remain at their best, consider applying a maintenance coat every few years. This protective layer helps restore the finish, fill in minor scratches, and maintain the floor's luster. It's important to consult a professional to determine the ideal maintenance schedule and products for your specific type of hardwood flooring.

As the leading hardwood flooring company in Panama City, Florida, and surrounding areas, Habitat Hardwood Flooring is dedicated to providing top-notch service and expertise. If you suspect your hardwood floors need maintenance, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help keep your floors looking their best.