This article was written for Blue Hippo Flooring.
Yes, there is a right and wrong way.
By Roy Harryman
There are few things more eye-catching than the sheen of a new food floor. And if you treat your floor right, that look will last.
But if you mistreat it, the glory will fade – fast.
Cleaning is not rocket science, but there’s plenty of misinformation out there. Let’s sort fact from fiction.
We only recommend Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner. The product is mixed with water and is applied with a washable pad. It comes in a kit so you don’t have to guess what you need. You can find it at home improvement stores as well as online.
Now, that’s a pretty specific recommendation. But I share it because it works. We don’t sell Bona and don’t get a commission. We don’t own stock in the company (though we ought to).
Here’s the bottom line. After you invest in a high-quality wood floor that will enhance the value of your home, the last thing you want to do is ruin it with bogus cleaning methods.
You may have heard lots of tips over the years. But please ignore them. Don’t ever use:
Vinegar
Water
Old English
Murphy Oil Soap
Steam heat
The first two simply don’t work. The second two (oil-based products) build up a residue on your wood floor that must literally be sanded off. Finally, steam cleaning destroys the finish.
We’ve heard many wounded floors crying out with the lyrics of Linda Ronstadt:
I've been cheated
Been mistreated
When will I be loved?
You’ve invested in a floor. It’s worth spending a little more to take care of it.
Be faithful to your floor: Use Bona.