Engineered hardwood floors are a beautiful, durable, and cost-effective option for homeowners who want the look of real wood without the maintenance challenges of traditional hardwood. Made from layers of wood veneer over a core of plywood or high-density fiberboard, engineered hardwood is designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily life. However, just like any other flooring, it requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance and extend its lifespan.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to clean engineered hardwood floors and offer tips on the best methods for keeping them in excellent condition. Whether you’re looking for routine cleaning tips or solutions for tackling tough stains, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow advice.
Why Proper Cleaning is Important
Engineered hardwood floors are designed to be more resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations than traditional hardwood, but they still need care to avoid scratches, dents, and dulling of the finish.
The top layer, or veneer, is made of real wood, which means it can be damaged if not cleaned properly. Using the wrong cleaning products or methods can also cause issues like warping, fading, or peeling.
Taking the right steps to clean your engineered hardwood floors will not only keep them looking great but also extend the life of the flooring. Here’s everything you need to know to do it right.
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Best Ways to Clean Engineered Hardwood Floors
1. Dust and Sweep Daily
One of the easiest ways to care for your engineered hardwood floors is to keep dust and dirt off the surface. Dust and debris can act like sandpaper, scratching and dulling the finish over time.
- Use a Soft-Bristled Broom: A broom with soft bristles or a microfiber dust mop is ideal for sweeping engineered hardwood floors. These tools are gentle on the surface and effective at picking up dirt, dust, and pet hair.
- Daily or Every Other Day: Try to sweep your floors daily, or at least every other day, depending on the amount of foot traffic in your home. This will prevent dust buildup and reduce the chances of scratches.
2. Vacuum with Care
Vacuuming is another great way to remove dirt and dust, but you need to be careful about which type of vacuum you use. Some vacuums have beater bars that can scratch the surface of engineered hardwood.
- Use a Vacuum with a Hardwood Floor Setting: Make sure your vacuum is designed for hardwood floors, or switch off the beater bar if your vacuum has one. A soft-bristle attachment or setting will be gentle on your floors while effectively removing dirt.
- Vacuum Weekly: While daily sweeping is ideal, you can vacuum once or twice a week for a deeper clean, especially in high-traffic areas like entryways or living rooms.
3. Use a Damp Mop
Mopping is essential for maintaining the cleanliness and shine of your engineered hardwood floors, but it’s important to avoid soaking them with water. Too much moisture can seep into the wood layers and cause warping or damage.
- Damp, Not Wet: Use a microfiber mop slightly dampened with water or a hardwood floor cleaner. Make sure the mop is only lightly damp and not dripping wet.
- Use a pH-Neutral Cleaner: It’s best to use a cleaner that’s specifically formulated for hardwood or engineered wood floors. A pH-neutral cleaner will clean without damaging the finish. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as they can discolor or damage the wood.
- Mop Weekly: A weekly mop is generally enough to keep your engineered hardwood floors looking shiny and clean. For high-traffic areas, you may want to mop more frequently.
4. Spot Clean Spills Immediately
Accidents happen, but it’s important to clean up spills on your engineered hardwood floors as soon as possible. Letting liquids sit can cause damage to the wood or its finish, leading to discoloration or warping.
- Blot Spills with a Dry Cloth: For liquid spills, blot the area immediately with a dry cloth to absorb as much moisture as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the liquid and damage the surface.
- Use a Damp Cloth for Sticky Spills: For spills that leave a sticky residue, like juice or food, use a slightly damp cloth to clean the area. Afterward, dry the spot thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent moisture from seeping into the floor.
5. Avoid Steam Cleaners
Steam cleaners can be great for many surfaces, but they are not recommended for engineered hardwood floors. The heat and moisture from steam cleaners can cause the wood layers to warp, buckle, or peel over time.
- Stick to Dry or Damp Cleaning Methods: As mentioned, sweeping, vacuuming, and damp mopping are the safest ways to clean engineered hardwood floors. Keep steam away to preserve the integrity of the wood.
Related Blog: Easy and Effective Cleaning Tips to Get Stains Off Hardwood Floors
Preventative Care for Engineered Hardwood Floors
In addition to regular cleaning, there are a few simple steps you can take to protect your engineered hardwood floors from everyday wear and tear. By preventing damage before it happens, you can keep your floors looking like new for years to come.
1. Use Rugs and Mats
High-traffic areas, such as entryways, hallways, and kitchens, are more prone to scratches and scuffs. Placing rugs and mats in these areas can protect your floors from damage.
- Entryway Mats: Use mats both inside and outside entryways to trap dirt, grit, and moisture before it reaches your floors. This will reduce the amount of cleaning needed and prevent dirt from scratching the surface.
- Rug Pads: Be sure to use rug pads underneath area rugs to prevent them from slipping and to provide an extra layer of protection against scratches. Choose pads that are specifically designed for use on hardwood floors to avoid any damage to the finish.
2. Furniture Pads
Furniture can cause scratches if moved across the floor without protection. To prevent this, place felt pads or protective sliders under the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture.
- Regularly Check Pads: Over time, felt pads can wear out or collect dirt, which can scratch the floor. Check them regularly and replace them as needed to keep your floors protected.
3. Control Humidity Levels
Engineered hardwood is more resistant to moisture changes than solid hardwood, but it’s still important to maintain a stable indoor environment. Fluctuating humidity levels can cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to warping or cracking.
- Ideal Humidity Range: Aim to keep the humidity in your home between 30% and 50%. You can use a humidifier in the winter or a dehumidifier in the summer to maintain this balance and protect your floors.
Related Blog: How to Clean Old Hardwood Floors
Long-Term Maintenance Tips
With the right care and attention, your engineered hardwood floors can last for decades. Here are a few more tips to ensure your floors stay beautiful in the long run:
- Recoat Every Few Years: Over time, the finish on your engineered hardwood floors may start to wear. Consider recoating the surface every 3-5 years to restore the protective layer and keep the floors looking shiny.
- Buff and Polish: Buffing your floors regularly will help maintain their shine and smooth out small scratches. You can also use a wood floor polish every few months to enhance the floor’s appearance.
Conclusion
Cleaning engineered hardwood floors is easy when you know the right steps. By sweeping regularly, mopping with care, and avoiding steam cleaners, you can keep your floors in top condition for years.
Taking preventative measures suggested by Lori Maid’G, like using rugs and furniture pads, will further protect your floors from damage. With a little attention and regular maintenance, your engineered hardwood floors will remain a stunning feature in your home for a long time to come.
