Wooden floors are a beautiful addition to any home but like all things, they require care and attention in order to look their best. Here are some tips to keep them looking shiny and clean, no matter how you may really feel deep inside about things made from wood.
Polishing
Be the first on your block to make your own floor polish. Combine 2 cups of mineral oil with 1-teaspoon beeswax. Heat mixture in a double boiler until it melts and blends. Wait until it cools to apply to floor with a soft cloth. Most experts agree that polish should be applied by going with the grain and not across it.
Wax and Wooden Floors
A wooden floor with a hard sealed finish can become slippery if wax is applied to it. Rub a piece of wax paper over the floor with a broom or a mop to bring a quick and easy sparkle to your wooden floors without having to go to the trouble of a full wax job. If you use a liquid floor cleaner, remember that the floor must be completely dry before you apply any floor wax or polish. Otherwise a dull grayish finish may appear, which is fine for shoes, matching handbags and accessories, but a terrible color on floors.
Vacuuming
As a general rule, try to dust and vacuum regularly as dust and dirt particles can cause damage to your wooden floors. Always vacuum or at least sweep the floor before washing or polishing. It makes everything that follows a lot easier. Vacuum band attachments work better on wooden floors than those machines with beater bars. If your attachment doesn’t have a brush edge, place a thin sock or pantyhose leg over the end to help prevent scratching. (Remember to remove the sock or pantyhose from whatever leg is wearing it at the time. Otherwise…trouble!)
Stay tuned for more tips on cleaning wooden floors. By the way, do YOU have any to add? Please share.
Related Reading:
“Cleaning Leather And Other Diversions”
Cleaning Antique Wooden Furniture”