How to Clean Unsealed Wood Floors
When it comes to keeping your wood floors looking shiny and beautiful, there are certain maintenance tips that come in handy. None is more important than knowing how to clean unsealed wood floors properly! The trick is not only understanding the specialties of cleaning non-sealed hardwood but also tailoring your approach to ensure maximum results with minimal effort.
If you have unsealed wood floors in your home, then you know how frustrating it can be to keep them looking their best – dirt and dust seem to get stuck in cracks and corners more easily than other flooring. But don’t despair! Follow these simple steps and you’ll find cleaning your unsealed wood floors isn’t as daunting as it may seem. By following a few steps on how to clean unsealed wood floors you can have your unsealed wood floors clean throughout the year – let’s dive right into it!
Why is It Important to Clean Unsealed Wood Floors?
1 . To Maintain the Appearance of Your Floors
Unsealed wood floors are prone to scratches, stains and discoloration if not cleaned regularly. This can lead to a dull and unappealing look, making your home or office appear neglected. By cleaning them frequently, you can prevent dirt and grime from accumulating and keep the natural beauty of your wood floors intact.
2 . To Avoid Damage
Dirt, dust and other particles can easily get trapped in the crevices of unsealed wood floors. Over time, these particles can cause scratches and damage to your floors. Furthermore, spills or liquid accidents that are not cleaned immediately can seep into the wood and cause warping or buckling. Regular cleaning helps prevent such damages and prolongs the life of your floors.
3 . To Promote Hygiene and Health
Unsealed wood floors can harbor bacteria, mold, and mildew if not cleaned properly. This can be especially harmful to those with allergies or respiratory issues. By keeping your floors clean, you create a healthier environment for yourself, family members, and visitors.
How to Clean Unsealed Wood Floors in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather All The Tools
The very first step is to gather all the necessary tools that you will need for cleaning unsealed wood floors. Some of these tools include a broom, dustpan, vacuum with brush attachment, mop, soft cloths and a bucket. Make sure that all your tools are clean and in good condition.
Step 2: Remove All Surface Dust
Before you start deep cleaning your wood floors, you need to remove all the surface dust. Use a broom or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to get rid of any loose dirt or debris on your floors.
Step 3: Make Your Own Cleaning Solution
Using harsh chemicals can damage the finish on unsealed wood floors, so it’s best to make your own cleaning solution. Mix equal parts of warm water and white vinegar in a bucket. You can also add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent.
Step 4: Clean the Floors
Dip your mop into the cleaning solution and wring out any excess water. Mop your floors in small sections, using gentle pressure to avoid damaging the wood. Make sure to rinse your mop often to prevent spreading dirt and grime around.
Step 5: Dry Thoroughly
After mopping, use a soft cloth to dry the floors thoroughly. This step is especially important for unsealed wood floors as excess moisture can cause warping or damage. Make sure that no water is left standing on the floors before allowing them to air dry completely.
Some Extra Tips to Clean Unsealed Wood Floors
1 . Do Not Use Harsh Chemicals
Using harsh chemicals to clean unsealed wood floors can cause damage, discoloration, and even warping. Instead, opt for natural or mild cleaning solutions that are safe for use on wood surfaces.
2 . Avoid Using Excessive Water
Since unsealed wood floors are not protected by a sealant or finish, they are more susceptible to water damage. When cleaning, make sure to use as little water as possible and dry the floor immediately after.
3 . Sweep or Vacuum Regularly
Regular sweeping or vacuuming can help prevent dirt and debris from building up on unsealed wood floors. This not only keeps the floors looking clean, but also prevents scratches and damages from occurring.
4 . Use a Soft Bristled Brush
When scrubbing unsealed wood floors, it is important to use a soft bristled brush instead of abrasive materials. Scrubbing too hard can cause scratches and damages to the surface.
5 . Consider Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning is an effective way to clean unsealed wood floors without using excessive water or harsh chemicals. However, make sure to use a specialized wood floor cleaning attachment and set the steam on a low setting.
6 . Wipe Up Spills Immediately
Spills should be wiped up immediately from unsealed wood floors to avoid any potential damage. This is especially important for spills that could potentially stain or warp the wood, such as red wine or pet urine.
7 . Place Rugs in High Traffic Areas
To protect your unsealed wood floors from wear and tear, consider placing rugs or mats in high-traffic areas such as entryways and hallways. This will help prevent scratches and damage caused by constant foot traffic.
8 . Use Furniture Pads
Furniture can also cause scratches and damage to unsealed wood floors. To prevent this, use furniture pads on the bottom of chairs, tables, and other heavy items to protect the floors from any potential damage.
9 . Regular Maintenance is Key
Regularly cleaning and maintaining unsealed wood floors is key to keeping them looking their best. Make sure to sweep or vacuum at least once a week, wipe up spills immediately, and deep clean every few months to prevent any build-up of dirt or grime.
10 . Consider Sealing the Floors
Finally, if you find that your unsealed wood floors are difficult to maintain and prone to damage, consider sealing them with a sealant or finish. This will provide an added layer of protection and make cleaning and maintenance much easier in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take Before Cleaning Unsealed Wood Floors?
When cleaning unsealed wood floors, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid damaging the floors. These include:
- Sweeping or vacuuming the floors to remove any loose dust and debris
- Avoiding excessive water usage as it can seep into cracks and cause damage
- Testing any cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not cause discoloration or damage
- Using a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for unsealed wood floors
How Often Should I Clean Unsealed Wood Floors?
The frequency of cleaning unsealed wood floors depends on the amount of foot traffic and level of dirt and debris in the area. Generally, it is recommended to clean unsealed wood floors once a week using a dry mop or soft cloth. However, if the floors are in an area with high foot traffic or prone to spills and dirt, then more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Are There Any DIY Cleaning Solutions for Unsealed Wood Floors?
Yes, there are some DIY solutions that can be used to clean unsealed wood floors. These include:
- Mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spraying onto the floor and wiping with a damp cloth
- Creating a paste using baking soda and water, applying it to stains or high traffic areas, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then scrubbing with a soft brush before wiping away with a damp cloth
It is important to remember to test these solutions on a small area first and to use them sparingly as excessive use may cause damage to the floors.
What Are Some Tips for Maintaining Unsealed Wood Floors?
Besides regular cleaning, here are some tips for maintaining unsealed wood floors:
- Immediately wipe up any spills or stains to prevent them from seeping into the wood
- Place protective pads under furniture to avoid scratches and dents
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools when cleaning the floors
- Use a humidifier in dry climates to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your unsealed wood floors and keep them looking beautiful. Remember to also consult with a professional for any specific maintenance recommendations based on the type of wood and finish used for your floors. So, with proper precautions and regular maintenance, you can keep your unsealed wood floors looking clean and beautiful for years to come!
Conclusion
Taking proper care of unsealed wood floors is essential to keeping them looking their best and lasting as long as possible. Caring for unsealed wood floors requires regular sweeping, mopping, spot cleaning and damp wiping oiling.
Now that you know how to clean unsealed wood floors the right way, why not put your newfound knowledge to use? Get swept away in taking on this task and spend an afternoon sprucing up your unsealed wood floors so they look like new. Cleaning unsealed wood floors yourself is a great way to save money while ensuring your home looks its very best!
Angela Ervin
Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.
