Food Stains: For food stains, gently slide a plastic knife under the stain, then scrub with a clean, slightly damp cloth. On penetrating finish floors, you may need to cut away some wax, apply hardwood floor wax, and buff for a shine.
Oil Stains: Use trisodium phosphate (TSP) to break down oil stains. Dilute two tablespoons of TSP in a gallon of warm water, apply it to the stain with a cloth, and wipe it off with a water-soaked cloth. Dry quickly with a clean cloth.
Wax, Gum, or Crayon Marks: Place ice cubes in a sealed freezer bag, chill until deposits become brittle, and then scrape them off with a plastic spatula. On penetrating finish floors, reapply solvent-based hardwood floor wax and buff the repair.
Water, Ink, or Pet Stains: These can be stubborn. For penetrating finish floors, lightly sand the stain, scrub with coarse ’00’ grade steel wool dampened with mineral spirits, wipe with a damp cloth, and dry. Apply a solvent-based hardwood floor wax for a shine.

Step 4: Deep Cleaning

A periodic deep clean is essential to maintain the luster of your hardwood floors. The method you use depends on the type of finish:

Surface Finish: If your floor appears dull after regular cleaning, use a pH-neutral, wax-free, and petroleum-free cleaner. Ensure it’s suitable for surface finishes and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Penetrating Finish: Deep cleaning for these floors involves removing old wax and applying a new one. Use mineral oil, then wipe with water-dampened cloths, and dry thoroughly. Apply a solvent-based hardwood floor wax and polish in a circular motion.
Perform a deep clean about twice a year to keep your floors looking their best.

In Conclusion

Properly cleaning and maintaining your hardwood floors is crucial to preserving their natural beauty. Always consider your floor’s finish when selecting cleaning products and methods. Regular dusting and immediate stain removal can prevent damage, and periodic deep cleaning will ensure your floors shine for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vinegar on my hardwood floors? Yes, diluted white vinegar can help clean heavily soiled hardwood floors. Mix ½ cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water.
How do I deep clean old hardwood floors? Deep cleaning old hardwood floors is similar to cleaning new ones. Test a small area, choose a suitable method and cleaner, and take your time to address any hidden damage.
Is Dr. Bronner’s safe for wood? Dr. Bronner’s soap is safe for wood when diluted. Simply add a few drops to water in a spray bottle for a homemade floor cleaner.
How do I remove stubborn stains from hardwood floors? Microfiber mops work well for surface stains, but stubborn ones may require scraping, vacuuming, or light sanding, followed by appropriate cleaning and waxing.
Why does the floor still get dirty after mopping? Floors may appear dirty after mopping due to a dirty mop head or ineffective cleaning. Rinse the mop head, replace it if necessary, and wipe a mopped area with a white cloth to check for remaining dirt.