Hardwood Floors June/July 2025

Special Content (Continued)

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COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID To ensure your wood floors remain in great shape, avoid these common mistakes:

Dry Cleaning Cloths: While brooms can pick up large particles, they often fail to capture small particles like dirt, dust, and sand, which can escape through the bristles and settle back onto the floor. These small particles can damage the finish of your floors over time. Dry cleaning cloths with a texturized structure are effective in trapping and locking dirt, dust, small particles, and even allergens. Look for products with deeper ridges to pick up mid-size particles and large soils like human hair, pet hair, and lint. Mopping with Minimal Liquid: When it comes time to mop, prepare the cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a damp mop – rather than a soaking wet one – to reduce the risk of damage. Work in small sections, rinsing frequently to ensure an effective clean without leaving excess moisture behind. This method allows you to maintain control over the cleaning process and ensures each area receives adequate attention. Spot Cleaning Spills: Accidents happen, and it’s essential to address spills promptly. For common spills, use a soft cloth with a small amount of pH-balanced wood floor cleaner. Gently blot the stain rather than rubbing, which can damage the finish. For stubborn stains, consider using a dedicated wood floor stain remover that is safe for the type of flooring. Always test any cleaner in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not harm the finish. PREVENTIVE MEASURES Taking preventive measures can significantly extend the life of wood floors: Use Doormats and Rugs: Place doormats at entrances to minimize dirt and moisture brought in from outside. Area rugs also can help protect high-traffic areas. Furniture Pads: Using felt pads under furniture legs will prevent scratches and dents, keeping floors looking their best. Humidity Control: Maintaining a consistent humidity level in a home is essential. Wood floors can swell or shrink with excessive moisture or dryness, so consider using a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed. 3

Excessive Water Use: Never leave your wood floors wet. Excess water can seep into the seams and damage the wood. Always use a damp mop and ensure the floor dries quickly. Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, which can strip the finish off wood floors and cause permanent damage. Neglecting Routine Maintenance: Regular cleaning is crucial. Neglecting to maintain floors can lead to buildup and more significant cleaning challenges down the line. Wet/Damp Cleaning Without Dry Cleaning First: Skipping dry cleaning can lead to scratching wood floors with insoluble particles of dirt and sand that get trapped under the pad or mop. Mixing water with dirt creates mud, making floors look dull and streaky. Using Traditional String Mops and Buckets: This method puts too much water on wood floors, which can penetrate through seams into deeper layers, causing moisture damage. It’s challenging to maintain consistent moisture levels with this method, increasing the risk of damage to wood flooring. Instead, look for lightweight alternatives that allow for easy maneuverability and precise control over the amount of liquid used, ensuring a more effective and safer cleaning process. Using Vinegar and Water with Traditional Mops: While vinegar is a popular home remedy, its acidic nature can damage the wood floor and finishes over time. It also can leave a sticky residue that attracts more dirt. Applying Waxes, Oils, and Other Protective Products: Leave these applications to professionals. Many modern wood floors with factory finishes should avoid waxes and oils entirely as they may not allow for future maintenance coats to adhere, ultimately forcing the floor to be completely resanded or replaced. By sharing these essential steps for cleaning and maintaining wood floors with your customers, they can ensure that their floors stay beautiful for years to come. Regular dusting, proper cleaning techniques, and preventive measures will help preserve the flooring’s integrity. Encourage customers to embrace a routine that includes these practices and enjoy the warmth and elegance that wood floors bring to their home.

Arianna Castro is a floor care scientist for P&G Swiffer. To learn more, please visit swiffer.com.

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