- For routine cleaning on a hardwood floor, water is your best friend -- in moderation, of course. Dampen a dust mop with warm water, wipe your entire floor and dry. The warm water on the mop will collect dust particles and break up minor streaks and stains. Dry your carpet after cleaning. Do not use a disposable cloth mop, as this can damage your wood over time.
- Though technically acidic, white vinegar has a nearly neutral pH balance and can therefore clean a hardwood floor safely without dulling or damaging the finish. Mix half a cup of 5 percent white vinegar (preferably distilled) with a gallon of water, and apply it to your hardwood floor with a damp (not saturated) mop. Once again, too much liquid can damage your wood, so wring out your mop before applying the solution to your floor.
- Just like white vinegar, apple cider vinegar can help you to restore a shine to your floor. Merry Maids recommends mixing 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water. Apply to your floor with a damp mop, and buff dry with rags to towels. Unlike some other types of flooring, hardwood floors require manual drying. You can accelerate the drying process by opening windows, thus promoting air circulation.
- If you find difficult water deposits or hardened stains, dampen a rag with rubbing alcohol and gently dab the spot until the stain breaks away. If you still have trouble, try placing a couple of drops of lemon juice over the stain first. The combination of alcohol and citric acid can help you to destroy even the most stubborn stains. Remember to dry the spot right away.
- Products like Floor Glow, Regency Professional Neutral Floor Cleaner and Ajax Expert Neutral Multi-Surface/Floor Cleaner are specially formulated for wood floors. For best results, read the directions carefully before applying to your floor. Many products require you to add water before applying. After mixing your solution (if required), apply it to your floor using a damp mop and dry.
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