Soap-Man Cleaning Supplies
Household

How to Clean Hardwood Floors

A clean hardwood floors makes a bigger difference than you'd think. Here's the most effective method, plus the mistakes most people make.

What You'll Need

  • Soap-Man Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner
  • Microfiber mop
  • Warm water
  • Soft broom or vacuum (hard floor setting)
  • Microfiber cloths

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Sweep or vacuum first

    Remove all loose dirt, dust, and debris with a soft broom or vacuum on the hard floor setting (beater bar OFF).

  2. 2

    Prepare a diluted cleaning solution

    Mix a small amount of Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner in a bucket of warm water. The solution should be very diluted -- too much soap leaves a hazy film.

  3. 3

    Mop with a damp (not wet) mop

    Dip the microfiber mop, wring it until barely damp, and mop in the direction of the wood grain. The mop should leave no visible moisture behind.

  4. 4

    Dry immediately

    For polyurethane-finished floors, air drying is fine. For waxed or oil-finished floors, follow up with a dry microfiber cloth.

Pro Tips

  • TIPLess water is always better on hardwood. A barely damp mop is all you need -- excess water damages wood over time.
  • TIPUse furniture pads under all chair and table legs. Felt pads prevent the scratches that make hardwood look worn.
  • TIPPlace mats at every entrance to catch grit, which is the number one cause of hardwood floor scratches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XUsing a soaking wet mop, which causes water damage, warping, and finish clouding on hardwood floors.
  • XUsing vinegar on hardwood floors, which dulls the polyurethane finish over time despite being a popular DIY tip.
  • XUsing a vacuum with the beater bar engaged, which scratches and dents the wood surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sweep or vacuum weekly. Mop every 1-2 weeks with a barely damp mop. Deep clean annually.