13 Things You’re Doing That Are Ruining Your Hardwood Floors

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There are few things as welcoming and as timeless as hardwood floors. We might admire their elegance but there are some everyday habits that will chip away at their charm and longevity. So whether you have just installed gleaming new planks or are working with vintage wood, a little knowledge goes a long way to keeping their appeal.

It’s time to take a closer look at some of the blunders that you might be making that could very well spell disaster for your floors. Here are a few of them.

Using the Incorrect Cleaning Products

One of the main flaws is having harsh cleaners that can harm the top finish of your hardwood floor. Ammonia or vinegar products on your floor might seem harmless, but they can strip away the protective layer leaving your floor looking dull. To keep your floors looking good as new, always go for a cleaner specially designed for hardwood.

Neglecting Spills

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Spills are a given in a busy home. However, if left unattended, they will start staining and damaging as time goes by. It’s important to clean up spills quickly, whether the spill dropped a drink or leaked from a plant. Don’t rub because rubbing can scratch the surface, and use a soft cloth to blot the area.

Skipping Regular Maintenance

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Your hardwood floors are no different than your car — they need regular upkeep. If you fail to keep them, they will wear and tear. Clean and recondition your floors annually or as recommended by the manufacturer to keep those nice floors looking new. It’s like a spa day for your wood, it deserves it!

Dragging Furniture Across the Floor

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Picture this: you’re moving a couch across the room, it’s easier to drag it than to lift it. This little shortcut, however, can result in big scratches. Never drag furniture, lift it instead; or use furniture padding to protect it. Your floors will thank you!

Wearing Shoes Indoors

You may have heard the age-old debate: shoes on or off indoors? ‘Wearing shoes on hardwood can trap dirt, grit and moisture and scratch or warp the surface, even though it may seem like a small thing.’ Think of enforcing a no shoe policy to prevent dirt from your shoes contaminating your floors. Well, what can say it better than cozy slippers!

Ignoring Humidity Levels

According to ScienceDirect, wood is a natural material that changes its properties with changing humidity. Your floors can expand or contract and cause gaps or warping if your home is too dry or too humid. In winter, use a humidifier; in summer, a dehumidifier. It’s like giving your floors a nice comfortable climate to live in.

Using Area Rugs Improperly

Using area rugs on hardwood floors is a great way to protect your floors from scratches and sun damage, but if you get them wrong, you can create problems. Don’t stick down rugs that could fall or slide out as they can create uneven surface, or even become a tripping hazard. Place non slip pads underneath rugs to keep them in place and also provide a little extra protection.

Neglecting Pet Care

Hardwood floors are beautiful but furry friends can do a number on them. They can actually scratch the surface and things can turn bad. Reducing damage to your pet’s nails is possible though through regular grooming and trimming. Plus, it’s a good idea to keep your eye on your pets during playtime so you don’t have to pay for a costly repair down the line.

Not Using Mats at Entryways

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Your hardwood floors’ best friend are mats at entryways. They prevent dirt and moisture from doing their damage on your floors. A quality mat can make the difference between a clean surface or a build up of grime. However, they have to be shaken out regularly in order to remain effective.

Ignoring Scratches and Dents

Hardwood floors are just like any other floors, they’re going to have scratches and dents, but if you ignore it, you’re going to get bigger problems. Use wood filler and a touch up pen to handle minor scratch. The sooner you address these little issues, the less chance they will become bigger eyesores that you will need help from a professional with.

Overusing Water

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Mopping is important, but too much water can be the death of hardwood floors. Seams can allow excess moisture in and it can swell or warp. Instead, use a damp mop rather than a soaking one and dry up any excess water. You’ll give your floors extra care!

Neglecting Professional Help

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Like you’d call a doctor for a persistent cough, your hardwood floors may require a professional’s help every now and then. If you see a lot of damage or wear, don’t hesitate to call in a flooring expert. The inspections will help you identify issues before they get too far into a successful area, keeping your floors lovely for years.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.