How to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors: A Comprehensive Guide

Published by Enaam Siam on April 16, 2023 | Last updated on June 9, 2023

Hardwood floors are a beautiful addition to any home, providing a classic and elegant look that adds value to your property. Prefinished hardwood floors, in particular, are becoming more popular because they are easier to install and maintain.

However, just like any other flooring, prefinished hardwood floors require regular cleaning to maintain their shine and prevent damage.

Cleaning prefinished hardwood floors may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In this CleanersAdvisor guide, we’ll provide you with tips on How to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors, what products to use, and what to avoid.

Visit our other CleanerAdvisor guides, to read more about Are Robot Vacuums Good For Hardwood Floors?, How to Remove Murphy’s Oil Soap From Hardwood Floors, and How to Clean Matte Finish Hardwood Floors.

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Prefinished Hardwood Floors

Prefinished hardwood floors are manufactured hardwood flooring that has been coated and finished before it’s installed in a home. This type of hardwood flooring is available in various sizes, finishes, and colors.

Prefinished hardwood floors offer several benefits over unfinished hardwood floors. Since the finishing process is completed at the factory, the flooring is less susceptible to scratches and wear and tear.

However, even with the protective layer, prefinished hardwood floors still require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good condition. We advise to provide them with high quality Skirting Boards.

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Advantages of Installing Prefinished Hardwood Floors

Prefinished hardwood floors offer several advantages over unfinished hardwood floors, including:

1. Easy installation
2. Durability
3. Wide range of colors and finishes
4. Resistant to scratches and wear and tear
5. Reduced maintenance requirements
6. Better indoor air quality
7. Time-saving

Disadvantages of Obtaining Prefinished Hardwood Floors

While prefinished hardwood floors offer several advantages, they also have some disadvantages, such as:

1. More expensive than unfinished hardwood floors
2. Limited customization options
3. Less opportunity for on-site repairs
4. Limited refinishing options

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Preparation Before Cleaning

Before you start cleaning your prefinished hardwood floors, it’s important to prepare the area. Remove any furniture or objects from the room that could get in your way while cleaning. Also, make sure to sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any loose dirt and debris.

Tools and Material Needed

To properly clean your prefinished hardwood floors, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

1. Soft-bristled broom or vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment.
2. Microfiber mop or cloth
3. Bucket
4. pH-neutral cleaner
5. Water

Make sure to use a pH-neutral cleaner as acidic or alkaline cleaners can damage the finish of your prefinished hardwood floors.

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Best Products for How to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors

When it comes to how to clean prefinished hardwood floors, it’s important to use the right products. Here are some of the best products for cleaning prefinished hardwood floors:

1. Microfiber mop: A microfiber mop is an excellent tool for cleaning prefinished hardwood floors. It can easily pick up dirt and grime without scratching the surface of the floor. Make sure to use a clean and dry microfiber mop to prevent any water damage to the wood.

2. Bona hardwood floor cleaner: Bona is a popular brand that specializes in hardwood floor cleaning products. Their hardwood floor cleaner is safe for use on prefinished hardwood floors and is specifically designed to remove dirt and grime without leaving a residue.

3. White vinegar: White vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that can be used on prefinished hardwood floors. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to clean your floors. However, be careful not to use too much vinegar as it can damage the finish on the floors.

4. Mild dish soap: Mild dish soap mixed with warm water is another effective way to clean prefinished hardwood floors. Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the solution to the floor and then rinse with clean water.

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Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors

Now that you have your cleaning products ready, it’s time to start cleaning your prefinished hardwood floors. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean prefinished hardwood floors:

1. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any loose dirt and debris.
2. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of hardwood floor cleaner, white vinegar, or mild dish soap.
3. Dip a clean microfiber mop into the cleaning solution and wring it out until it’s just damp.
4. Start mopping your prefinished hardwood floors in a straight line, working your way towards the door. Avoid using too much water, as excess water can damage the finish on the floors.
5. Rinse your mop frequently and change the cleaning solution as needed.
6. Use a clean and dry microfiber mop to remove any excess water from the floor, once you’ve finished mopping, U
7. Allow the floor to air dry completely before walking on it.

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How to Deal with Prefinished Hardwood Floors Stains?

To remove stains from prefinished hardwood floors, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub the area with a soft cloth. Rinse with clean water and dry the area thoroughly.

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Regular Maintenance for Prefinished Hardwood Floors Tips

Cleaning prefinished hardwood floors is just one part of the equation for keeping them looking their best. Here are some tips for maintaining prefinished hardwood floors:

1. Use doormats: Place doormats at each entryway to prevent dirt and debris from being tracked onto the floors.
2. Trim pet nails: If you have pets, make sure to keep their nails trimmed to prevent scratches on the floors.
3. Avoid high heels: High heels can leave dents and scratches on prefinished hardwood floors, so it’s best to avoid wearing them indoors.
4. Protect furniture: Place felt pads on the bottom of furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents on the floors.
5. Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the color of prefinished hardwood floors, so it’s best to use window coverings or blinds to protect the floors from the sun.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Prefinished Hardwood Floors

When cleaning prefinished hardwood floors, it’s important to avoid the following common mistakes:

1. Using excessive amounts of water.
2. Using acidic or alkaline cleaners.
3. Using abrasive or rough materials.
4. Allowing spills to sit for too long.

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How to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors FAQs

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Conclusion

Cleaning prefinished hardwood floors doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does require some care and attention to ensure that you don’t damage the protective finish.

Follow  these tips for deep cleaning, and make sure to avoid common mistakes like using excessive water or abrasive materials. With regular cleaning and maintenance, your prefinished hardwood floors can continue to look beautiful for years to come.