As a professional cleaner, I know that cleaning wood floors can be tricky, especially when they get really dirty. Wood floors are beautiful, but dirt, grime, and even stains can build up over time. If your wood floor is looking dirty, don’t worry! I’m here to help you with easy steps on how to clean a very dirty wood floor.
Why You Should Clean Your Wood Floor
Cleaning your wood floors regularly helps keep them looking nice and helps protect them from damage. Dirty floors can get scratched, and the dirt can make them look dull. Keeping your floors clean will help them last longer and keep your home looking fresh!
What You Need to Clean Your Wood Floor
Before you start cleaning, make sure you have everything you need:
- A vacuum or broom
- A microfiber mop
- A bucket
- Wood floor cleaner or a DIY cleaner (I’ll share the recipe below!)
- A soft towel or cloth to dry the floor
- Optional: Wood floor polish to make the floor shine
Step 1: Sweep or Vacuum First
Start by getting rid of dirt, dust, and debris. You can use a vacuum with a hardwood floor setting or a broom. Make sure to sweep or vacuum the whole floor, especially the corners where dirt can gather. This is an important step so you don’t push dirt around when you mop.
Step 2: Pick the Right Cleaner
Now, you need a good cleaner for your wood floor. Don’t use strong cleaners like bleach or ammonia—they can damage the wood. You can buy a wood floor cleaner or make your own. Here’s how:
DIY Cleaner:
- Mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar with a gallon of warm water.
- Add a few drops of dish soap if you want to cut through grease.
- You can also add a couple of drops of essential oils (like lemon) for a nice smell!
Step 3: Mop the Floor
Next, dip your microfiber mop into your cleaning solution. Wring out the mop so it’s damp, not soaking wet. You don’t want to use too much water because it can hurt your wood floor. Mop the floor in small sections, following the direction of the wood grain. This helps avoid streaks.
Step 4: Clean Stubborn Spots
If you see any tough stains or spots, apply a little bit of the cleaner directly on the stain. Let it sit for a minute, then scrub it gently with a soft cloth. Don’t scrub too hard because that could scratch the wood.
Step 5: Dry the Floor
After you finish mopping, it’s important to dry the floor. Use a clean towel to wipe down the floor and remove any extra moisture. Wood doesn’t do well with water sitting on it, so drying it helps protect the finish and keeps your floor looking shiny.
Step 6: Optional: Polish for Extra Shine
If you want your floor to shine, you can use a wood floor polish. This will give the floor a glossy look and protect it. Follow the instructions on the product, and use a soft cloth to apply it evenly.
Tips to Keep Your Floor Clean
- Use Rugs and Mats: Put mats at your doors to catch dirt before it gets to your floor.
- Regular Dusting: Dust and sweep your floors regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
- Trim Pet Nails: If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed to avoid scratches.
Conclusion
Cleaning a very dirty wood floor doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these easy steps, you can get your wood floors looking clean and shiny again. Regular cleaning will help keep them looking great for years. If you’re not able to clean your floors yourself, consider reaching out for help. At Gloria Cleaning, we offer residential cleaning services, including floor cleaning, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
If you need help with a commercial space, we also provide commercial cleaning services for businesses, including cleaning wood floors in offices, daycare centers, and more.
For a hassle-free, clean home, contact us today! Let us handle the hard work for you.