01 Jan Cleaning Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Floor

Flooring represents a significant investment in your home and you want it to last for many years. Unfortunately, there are a number of cleaning mistakes that can ruin your new flooring and result in considerable expense to replace. Each type of flooring has its own set of parameters for cleaning and you ignore them at the risk of damaging your floors.

Hardwood Floors

Still the No. 1 choice for individuals across the nation, you can inadvertently damage your hardwood floors with soap and water cleaners, water and vinegar formulas, waxes, and steam cleaners. Water and hardwood flooring don’t mix, while vinegar and water dulls the finish. Soap and wax leave a residue. Steam cleaners apply a significant amount of heat and leave an excessive amount of liquid on the floor that leads to cupping, warping and other types of damage.

Vacuum Settings

Vacuum cleaners have multiple settings for a reason and it’s essential that the correct setting is utilized. Hardwood floors will quickly be marred by the brushes on a vacuum. Hardwood flooring is best served by a setting in which brushes don’t rotate, while carpeting can withstand the brushes for a deeper clean.

Too Much Water

The amount of water on your floor doesn’t automatically equate with a higher level of clean. Even water-resistant flooring shouldn’t be saturated with liquid as it can penetrate to the subflooring beneath it. Porcelain and marble tile can withstand water without damage, but not other types. Use as little liquid as possible when cleaning your flooring.

Steam Cleaners

The devices are great for ceramic tile, linoleum, porcelain and vinyl, but not for your laminate or hardwood floors.

Loose Debris

When mopping floors, even with the new types of mops that dispense cleaning fluid and use microfiber pads, its important to remove loose debris before attempting to mop. Sweep or vacuum first to remove dirt and debris. Otherwise, you’ll simply be pushing the debris around and scratching your flooring.