Your floors are the silent witnesses to countless moments in your lives. From the first wobbly steps of a toddler to the joyous leaps of a graduation celebration, they’ve seen spills (both literal and figurative!), dance parties, and cozy movie nights. They’re the foundation of our homes, quite literally, and deserve a little TLC to keep them looking the best for many more memories to come.
So, here’s everything you need to know to keep your wooden, hybrid, and engineered beaut looking spick and span.
1. Cleaning Techniques
Just like a good outfit needs different care depending on the fabric, so do your floors! Here’s a quick breakdown of what works best for each type of flooring.
Wooden Floors
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- Daily Care: Sweep or vacuum with a soft brush attachment daily to prevent dirt and debris from scratching the surface.
- Weekly Cleaning: Use a damp mop with a cleaner specifically designed for wooden floors. Avoid soaking the mop or using excessive water, as moisture can warp wood.
- Deep Cleaning: Every few months, consider using a wood floor polish to restore shine and provide an additional protective layer.
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Engineered Timber Floors
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- Routine Sweeping: Like wooden floors, sweeping or vacuuming regularly is essential. Engineered timber flooring can handle more moisture but still needs care.
- Mopping: Use a damp mop and a gentle cleaner. Wring out the mop well to avoid leaving water on the floor, which can seep into seams and cause damage.
- Stain Removal: For tough stains, a mix of water and vinegar can be effective. Apply it to a cloth, not directly to the floor, and gently rub the stain away.
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Hybrid Vinyl Floors
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- Dust and Dirt: Hybrid flooring is highly resistant to scratches, but it’s still good practice to sweep or vacuum regularly.
- Mopping: Use a damp mop with a mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could damage the finish.
- Spot Cleaning: For that spilled vino, wipe up immediately with a damp cloth to prevent staining.
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2. Preventing Wear and Tear
Life happens, and sometimes it leaves its mark on your floors. Here’s how you can minimise these everyday wear and tear.
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- Use Rugs and Mats: Place a sturdy doormat at every entrance to trap dirt and debris before they can make their way inside. Choose a mat with a non-slip backing for added safety.
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- Furniture Pads: Equip furniture legs with felt pads to prevent scratches and scuffs on your wood flooring. These little lifesavers are easy to find at any hardware store.
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- No Shoes Indoors: While those stilettos might make you feel like a million bucks, they’re not exactly floor-friendly. Encourage guests to switch to comfy slippers while indoors to keep those gorgeous planks scratch-free.
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3. Seasonal Considerations
Different flooring reacts differently to the various seasons. Here’s how you can adjust your cleaning routine.
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- Summer: Increased humidity can lead to warping in some materials like the oak timber flooring. Aim for a slightly damp mop instead of a soaking wet one. And hey, keep those sunscreen spills under control!
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- Winter: Dry winter air can make wood floors more susceptible to cracks. You might want to invest in a humidifier to maintain a good moisture balance. You can also consider using a wood polish to add a protective layer.
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4. DIY Repair Tips
Minor scratches don’t have to be a major headache. Here are some simple fixes to keep your floors looking flawless.
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- Scratches: For minor scratches on your floors, a furniture marker in a similar shade might do the trick. Remember, always test the marker in an inconspicuous area first.
- Gaps: Small gaps between wood floorboards can appear on your oak timber flooring over time. For minor gaps, wood putty can be a lifesaver. Choose a putty that matches the colour of your floor and apply it carefully to the gaps with a putty knife. Let it dry, then sand it smooth and finish with a coat of wood floor polish (if needed).
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Remember, even minor upkeep goes a long way! By incorporating these tips and tricks into your regular routine, your floors, hybrid or wood flooring will continue to be the beautiful foundation of your home, ready to host countless more memories
And for floors with extensive damage or a particularly stubborn stain, the friendly folks at LUXO Floors are here to help. Our experienced technicians can handle anything from a minor scratch to a full-blown floor revival, ensuring your floors look their absolute best. So, why wait? Contact LUXO Floors today to know more!
