Hardwood flooring might seem invincible, but underneath that layer of varnish, wood is porous and susceptible to a wide range of villains, including scratches, dings, dents, swelling, and even warping. Fortunately, if you know what to avoid, hardwood floor care doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are three tips for taking care of your hardwood flooring.

Use the Right Cleaners

Just because that cleaner works well on your bathroom tile doesn’t mean it can be used on your hardwood floors. Cleaners that contain abrasives, corrosive compounds, and powerful surfactants aren’t acceptable for hardwood floors because they can damage the protective finish. To clean your hardwood flooring, focus on removing dust and debris and using a pH-neutral cleaner that is meant for wood surfaces.  

Prevent Scratches, Dings & Dents

High heels, pet claws, and furniture scrapes can damage your flooring in an instant, which is why you should protect your floors by adding pads to the legs of your furniture and ask visitors to remove their shoes. To avoid pet scratches, consider having their claws capped with acrylic. Many grooming salons offer this service, and it is pain-free and non-toxic for your animal.

Avoid Contact With Water

Repeated exposure to water can wear away floor vanish and lead to warping that can damage your entire floor. To prevent water damage, focus on preventing spills from sinks, bathtubs, and showers.

If your hardwood flooring has been damaged by water, pets, and incorrect cleaning, don’t despair—Hardwood Rescue in Chesterfield, Missouri can help you to restore them to their original sheen. In addition to offering professional refinishing services, this team of experienced flooring contractors can also help with full flooring renovations. For more information about their services, visit Hardwood Rescue online or call (636) 532-5476.