If you are fortunate enough to have outfitted your home with pine wood flooring, you should follow specific steps to keep it looking nice for years. Though it is often referred to as hardwood, it is actually quite soft and can be damaged over time through small issues, such as dirt and dust.
To keep it looking as good as new for years to come, you should first know that you cannot clean it the same as you would tile or carpeting.
When you notice a spill, your first instinct might be to grab a mop or cloth, some water, and cleaning products. However, such items may actually damage pine wood flooring quite easily. Instead, pick up a lightly damp cloth to wipe the area.
Throwing water on the surface can ruin the look of the floor quickly, stripping the finish fast, and even water-based cleaning products can do the same. Therefore, the goal is to keep the areas as dry as possible, so if water is necessary to remove a sticky spot or difficult spill, ensure that only a limited amount is present for a short time.
Dust and dirt can scratch pine wood flooring, which means it is especially important to keep it clean. You can place small rugs inside each entrance to limit the amount of dirt tracked in from outside, and vacuum or dust often. Just do not use a beater-bar vacuum since that can scuff the surface itself.
You can use an electrostatic mop, which actually works more like a broom, to eliminate dirt without scratching the pine wood flooring.
In general, remember that you cannot use the typical cleaning products on this type of surface. Lots of water, soap, and strong detergent are not the lifesavers on pine wood flooring that they usually are on regular floors. Instead, use specialty wooden floor cleaners, or a mixture of vinegar and water wiped on the floor and dried off quickly.
The consequences of not cleaning this type of floor properly may include expansion, scratches, and loss of shine. You might think this kind of floor seems high maintenance as it is suggested that you sweep everyday to avoid damage.
However, many busy homeowners place area rugs and runners in high-traffic areas of the house, which means they do not have to clean daily. If you decide to take this route, you can simply use these tips when you witness a spill, allowing you to keep your floors clean and attractive for years - Andrew Stratton
