The primary step that is required daily to keep hardwood floors clean is to sweep or to use a dry vacuum. While sweeping or vacuuming the surface will remove dust and other particles that accumulate on the floor, you also need to disinfect the floor periodically. Are you wondering how to disinfect hardwood floors without damaging them? It is easier to do than you may think.
The Need to Disinfect the Floor
You could assume that your hardwood floor is clean after you sweep it. After all, you cannot see any signs of filth. However, microscopic germs may still be on the floor’s surface. These can cause illness, unpleasant odors and other issues. Disinfecting the floor does not need to be done every week unless you live in a busy home with a lot of foot traffic. However, it should be done regularly so that your home continues to be the pristine, healthy environment that you need it to be.
How to Disinfect Hardwood Floors
Before you start disinfecting the floor, ensure that all debris has been removed. This is because some types of debris may scratch or damage the floor during the cleaning process. Because excess moisture that remains on the floor for an extended period of time can cause warping and other types of damage, your next step is to open the windows and turn on the overhead fan. This promotes faster drying.
Use the Right Method
You can disinfect the floor using hydrogen peroxide or a store-bought cleaning product that is safe for hardwood floors. Always test a small area of the floor before using any new product. Spray your preferred cleaning agent onto the floor. After a few minutes, wipe away the moisture and filth with a microfiber cloth.
A Word of Caution
These are the steps that are necessary to safely clean a hardwood floor. As you research how to disinfect hardwood floors, understand that some techniques and products that you may be inspired to use could cause serious damage. Avoid using a steam cleaner, a vinegar and baking soda cleaner and pure bleach. Also, these in-depth disinfecting steps should only be completed a few times each year to prevent related damage to the floor. Excess moisture can seep between the wood slats. If this happens, the wood will absorb the water and will eventually warp. With this in mind, moisture should not remain on the wood for more than a few minutes regardless of the cleaning product that you choose to use.
One of the many amazing benefits of hardwood flooring is easy to care and maintenance requirements. While sweeping will get the job done on most days, deep cleaning is essential from time to time. Now that you know how to disinfect hardwood flooring safely, you can add this important task to your chores list.
