How do you keep a hard wood floor clean and polished without damaging the finish?

Answer 1

Most wood floors can be kept clean by first sweeping or vacuuming with a floor nozzle to remove most of the surface dust and dirt, then damp mopping with clear water (dip a sponge in clear water, squeezing it out so that the mop is barely damp, almost dry). Use very little water and rinse your mop thoroughly after each use since excess water can dissolve protective coatings, alter the color of the wood and raise the grain to roughen the surface.

If your floors are not dirty enough to need mopping every week, then you should not do it, as it will wear the floors faster, not to mention waste your time. Simply sweeping is often all they need.

If need to restore the shine to your wood floor after you get it clean, try damp mopping it with 1/2 cup vinegar and 2 tablespoons furniture polish in a gallon of warm water. Vinegar is also useful for removing any soap residue or build-up, but should not be necessary every week...

Answer 2

1- Make sure you sweep/vacuum all dirt first because if it's left on the floor before mopping it can act as an abrasive.
2- Use a few drops of dish soap and warm water for mopping....make sure you keep the soap to bare minimum.
3- Mop a second time with only water and no soap.
4- Dry it with towels.

I know it's a lot of work and I hate doing it :( I wonder if there is a less painful way too.

Answer 3

My mother swore by Liquid Gold on our wood kitchen floor. You should be able to find it with the regular cleaning and polishing supplies at the store.

Answer 4

Contact any supplier of wood flooring, tell him the type of wood and ask which brand of cleaner he would recommend to clean and polish the surface.

Answer 5

clean with a litlle vinegar in warm water and damp mop