Dreaming of having beautiful wooden floors? Concerned about their durability? Fear not!
Regular cleaning is a must to maintain hardwood floors, but taking good care of oiled and waxed wooden floors is simpler than you think.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to keep your hardwood floors looking pristine.
Oiled and waxed wooden floors for the win
Wood oil and wax provide comprehensive protection for your floors. The oil penetrates and strengthens the wood from within, while the wax forms a protective layer on the surface. This dual approach significantly boosts the floorboards' durability and reduces the need for frequent renovations. These treated floors maintain their resilience against temperature and humidity fluctuations, all while allowing the natural wood to breathe.
Additionally, oiled or waxed floors possess unique benefits. They resist dust absorption, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Moreover, they don't generate static electricity, enhancing the comfort of your living space.
Surprisingly, despite their exceptional qualities, maintaining oiled and waxed floors is a breeze. They don't demand frequent upkeep, and cleaning them is a straightforward process. As they age, these floors develop a charming patina, acquiring the distinguished character of well-aged wood. However, it's crucial to remember that this natural aging process doesn't diminish the need for proper care and maintenance of your wooden floors.
Post-installation care of wooden floors
Every wooden floor owner should know that the first two weeks are the most important.
If a final layer of wood oil is applied, allow it to cure for approximately 14 days. Avoid placing heavy objects on the floor during this period. Also, refrain from covering the floors with plastic wrap (only corrugated cardboard is allowed), and be mindful of any renovation or construction work in progress.
Remember not to rush with the installation. Prioritize laying the boards last, after doors and built-in furniture have been installed. Again, you should wait for 14 days (until the wood oil is fully cured) before allowing full loading.
If immediate cleaning is necessary, use a vacuum cleaner or a broom, and promptly wipe off any spilled liquids with a soft cloth. When placing furniture, safeguard table and chair legs with natural felt pads. For swivel chairs, consider using a protective mat or rubber casters.
Speaking of cleaning, however…
Regular maintenance of oiled wooden floors
To prolong the life and enhance the appearance of oiled and waxed floors, opt for wax-based care products. These create a protective coating that guards against dirt. If you’re not sure which one to choose, consult the flooring manufacturer for their specific recommendations. Avoid using vinyl or tile floor cleaners, as they may harm, rather than clean, wood floors.
How often you clean hardwood floors will depend on several factors, including the number of family members, lifestyle, pets, and the traffic your hardwood floors receive. A regular once-over with a broom or dust mop will do wonders for cleaning hardwood floors.
For daily floor care, sweeping or vacuuming is sufficient. In high-traffic areas, like the dining room and kitchen, sweep or vacuum daily if possible and mop hardwood floors once or twice a week. Just lightly clean hardwood floors a few times a week.
Remember that excessive water and unapproved care products can harm wooden floors. When cleaning an oiled floor, dampen the mop (but not dripping wet) and mop once a week.
Additional tips for maintaining wooden floors
Floor protectors: Use floor protectors under furniture to prevent marks on hardwood floors.
Preventing tracked-in dirt: Place floor mats both outside and inside exterior doors to reduce tracked-in dirt.
Shoe removal: Encourage the removal of shoes indoors to prevent dirt, grime, and germs from spreading.
Weather precautions: During snowy or rainy weather, designate a boot removal area to prevent damage from water and de-icing agents. Keep a cleaning cloth or towel handy to promptly clean up any moisture on wood floors.
A well-maintained wooden floor will delight for many years
A well-maintained wooden floor can leave a lasting impression for years to come. By following manufacturer recommendations and implementing these simple cleaning and maintenance tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your hardwood floors for generations.
Any questions about wooden floor cleaning and maintenance? Feel free to reach out!