How to Clean your Flooring; The Right Way
Kris Eastwood • July 24, 2021
No matter what type of flooring you have in your home, tile, laminate, luxury vinyl, or hardwood, you need to maintain a regular maintenance schedule to keep it clean. Cleaning your floor the right way is essential to ensure the life of the flooring and to keep the dirt and allergens out of your house.
To avoid damage to your flooring, you need to clean it the right way with the appropriate tools. Follow the tips below on how to clean your flooring to keep them durable and long-lasting.
Sweep the floor daily
A broom and dustpan can go a long way in removing dust and dirt on your floors. Use a soft-bristled, angled broom that can sweep broad areas and reach corners easily.
Another excellent tool is a microfiber cleaning pad designed to trap dirt, particles, and other household allergens using static electricity. To utilize it efficiently, do not lift the mop off the floor when cleaning so that the dust stays on the pad.
Clean hard-to-reach areas with a vacuum weekly
Vacuum cleaners can deal with dust and dirt in hard-to-reach areas such as the spaces between the flooring. Do this weekly to prevent particles from accumulating in these spaces.
Choose a vacuum with a soft floor nozzle to avoid scratching the flooring. Be careful when dragging the wheels of the vacuum as they can also damage the floor. You can also invest in a robot vacuum to save time and effort; make sure you choose a long-lasting one.
Other tips:
• Use the correct products. Use a nonabrasive all-purpose cleaner with a rag or chamois-type mop. Dry the floor with a clean, lint-free cloth immediately after washing to prevent water stains from appearing.
• Make sure to wipe up spills right away. Moisture can seep through the seams, so make sure you clean wet spills right away.
Tile Flooring Grout
It would be best if you cleaned grout at least twice a year.
- Make a homemade grout cleaner with baking soda and water
- Using a stiff nylon brush, take your homemade paste and scrub the grout, rinse
Consult a Professional
If you need help figuring out the right way to clean your flooring, consult a professional. At Floors for Less, we’ll gladly offer suggestions and answer your questions about the maintenance or replacement of your floors. Contact us today
for more information.
Upgrade your flooring today with engineered hardwood and enjoy a stylish, long-lasting solution tailored for Madison’s climate!
Stay ahead of the trends this winter by upgrading your flooring with stylish and practical options that suit Madison’s climate.
Madison, WI, experiences a challenging freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months, which can take a toll on your flooring. Fluctuating temperatures and moisture can cause floors to expand, contract, and even warp if not properly prepared. Here’s how to protect your floors and ensure they withstand Madison’s winter conditions. Understand the Freeze-Thaw Cycle’s Impact on Flooring The freeze-thaw cycle refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture in and around your home. This cycle can: Cause hardwood floors to expand and contract, leading to gaps or buckling. Lead to moisture seeping into tile grout, causing cracks or loosening tiles. Result in water damage to carpets and other porous flooring materials. Steps to Prepare Your Floors 1. Seal Hardwood Floors Sealing hardwood floors helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of warping or swelling during temperature changes. 2. Use Floor Mats and Rugs Place floor mats at entryways to trap snow, salt, and moisture brought in from outside. Adding rugs in high-traffic areas can provide an extra layer of protection for your floors. 3. Maintain Humidity Levels Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This prevents hardwood floors from drying out or expanding due to excess moisture. 4. Clean Regularly Dust and debris can scratch floors and make them more susceptible to damage. Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors regularly with appropriate cleaning solutions to maintain their integrity. 5. Inspect and Repair Grout For tiled floors, check the grout for cracks or signs of wear. Repairing damaged grout prevents water from seeping beneath the tiles, which can cause lifting or cracking during freeze-thaw cycles . 6. Apply Waterproofing Solutions For areas prone to moisture, such as basements or mudrooms, consider applying a waterproofing solution to your floors. This added protection minimizes water-related damage. 7. Use Non-Slip Rugs and Pads Winter can make floors slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Use non-slip rugs and pads to enhance safety while protecting your floors. Benefits of Preparing Your Floors Longevity : Proper preparation extends the lifespan of your flooring. Cost Savings : Avoid costly repairs or replacements caused by winter damage. Enhanced Comfort : Well-maintained floors contribute to a warm and inviting home environment. To explore durable and winter-ready flooring options, visit Floors for Less. Let us help you find the perfect solution for Madison’s challenging winters. FAQs About Protecting Floors During Freeze-Thaw Cycles What is the freeze-thaw cycle? It refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture during winter months. How does the freeze-thaw cycle affect hardwood floors? It can cause expansion, contraction, and warping if floors are not properly prepared. What type of flooring is best for freeze-thaw conditions? Hardwood with proper sealing, waterproof tiles, and moisture-resistant materials work best. How can I prevent moisture damage to my floors? Use sealants, waterproofing solutions, and maintain proper humidity levels indoors. Should I use rugs during winter? Yes, rugs protect floors from scratches, moisture, and salt brought in from outside. How often should I inspect my floors in winter? Regularly check for signs of damage, especially after extreme weather changes. Are waterproof flooring solutions worth it? Yes, they provide added protection against water damage and are ideal for high-moisture areas. Preparing your hardwood floors for Madison freeze-thaw cycle is essential to protect your investment and ensure your home remains cozy and safe throughout the winter. Contact Floors for Less today for expert advice and premium flooring solutions!
