How to Clean Engineered Hardwood Floors

Engineered hardwood floors are a beautiful and durable choice for any home, but proper care is essential to keep them looking their best. Unlike solid hardwood, engineered floors have a multi-layered construction with a real wood veneer on top, which requires a specific cleaning approach. Here’s a guide to keeping your engineered hardwood floors pristine and protected.

The Do’s of Cleaning Engineered Hardwood

1. Sweep or Vacuum Regularly

• Why: Daily sweeping or vacuuming is the most important step in preventing scratches. Dirt, dust, and grit can act like sandpaper underfoot, dulling the finish over time.

• How: Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hard-floor attachment. Be sure to turn off the beater bar on your vacuum, as the hard bristles can damage the floor's surface.

2. Use a Damp Microfiber Mop

• Why: Microfiber mops are gentle on the finish and effective at picking up fine dust and dirt. The key is to use a damp, not wet, mop to avoid excess moisture, which can cause warping or damage to the wood.

• How: Lightly dampen your microfiber mop with water or a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for wood floors. Wring out the mop thoroughly so it's just moist to the touch before wiping the floor.

3. Choose the Right Cleaning Solution

• Why: Using a cleaner formulated for engineered hardwood floors is crucial. These products are pH-balanced and won't strip or dull the finish.

• How: Look for cleaners from reputable brands like Bona or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can also make a simple DIY cleaner by mixing a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water, but always use it sparingly and test it in an inconspicuous area first.

4. Immediately Clean Up Spills

• Why: Liquids left on the floor can seep into the wood layers, causing stains or warping.

• How: Wipe up any spills as soon as they happen with a dry or slightly damp cloth.

The Don’ts of Cleaning Engineered Hardwood

• Don’t use a soaking wet mop: Excessive water is the enemy of engineered hardwood floors. It can damage the wood, causing it to warp, swell, or lift.

• Don’t use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners: Avoid products like ammonia-based cleaners, vinegar, oil soaps, or wax. These can strip the finish, leave a sticky residue, or cause a cloudy appearance.

• Don’t use a steam mop: The intense heat and moisture from a steam mop can be very damaging to engineered hardwood and can void your warranty.

• Don’t use abrasive tools: Steer clear of steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff-bristled brushes, which can easily scratch and permanently damage the top layer of your floor.

Protecting Your Investment

Beyond cleaning, you can extend the life of your engineered hardwood floors with a few simple preventative measures:

• Place doormats at all entrances to trap dirt and moisture.

• Use felt pads on the legs of your furniture to prevent scratches when moving chairs or tables.

• Keep your home’s humidity levels stable to prevent the wood from expanding or contracting.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your engineered hardwood floors remain a beautiful, long-lasting feature of your home for years to come.

Disclaimer: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific engineered hardwood flooring to ensure proper care.