How to Clean and Maintain Your Hardwood Floors

Protect your investment. Proper care and maintenance ensure your hardwood floors stay as beautiful as the day they were installed. Follow these expert guidelines from the Whole Wood team.

Hardwood flooring is a lifelong investment. Whether you have installed premium European Oak from the Medallion Collection or classic Red Oak, the key to lasting beauty is a proactive maintenance routine. Below is our comprehensive guide to cleaning, protecting, and preserving your floors in the unique Bay Area climate.

Daily & Weekly Maintenance

Routine cleaning prevents the buildup of grit and abrasives that can dull your floor’s finish over time.

• Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum with a felt-brush head (ensure the beater bar is turned off) to remove dust and dirt from between planks.
• Dust Mop: Use a microfiber dust mop for quick daily cleanups.
• Blot Spills Immediately: Hardwood and water don't mix. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to soak up spills immediately to prevent moisture damage or staining.

The "Golden Rules" of Hardwood Cleaning

• Never Wet Mop: Excess water can cause wood to swell, warp, or cup. Use a "dry" maintenance approach.
• Avoid Abrasives: Never use steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive cleaners.
• No Wax or Steam: Do not use steam mops, wax, or oil soaps (like Murphy’s) on modern UV-cured finishes, as they can leave a cloudy residue.
• Spray, Don't Pour: Use a spray-on hardwood floor cleaner (like Bona) and apply it to a microfiber pad rather than directly onto the wood.

Protecting Your Floor from Wear and Tear

• Furniture Protectors: Apply heavy-duty felt pads to the bottom of all chair legs, tables, and heavy furniture.
• Entryway Mats: Place mats both inside and outside entrances to trap sand and grit. Avoid rubber-backed mats that trap moisture; choose breathable natural fibers instead.
• Pet Care: Keep your pets' nails trimmed. While hardwood is durable, large dogs can scratch even the hardest finishes over time.
• Watch Your Footwear: Avoid walking on floors with high heels (especially if the taps are worn) or sports cleats, which can dent the wood.

Managing the Bay Area Climate

San Francisco and Marin County microclimates can cause wood to expand and contract.

• Humidity Control: For optimal performance, maintain your home's indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. This prevents excessive gapping in the winter and cupping in the summer.
• Sunlight Protection: Use UV-protective window coverings or rearrange rugs and furniture periodically to ensure your floor ages evenly and avoids "sun bleaching."

Special Care for Specialty Finishes

At Whole Wood, we carry advanced finishes that may require specific care:

UV-Cured Urethane (Standard on most Brands)

Most of our collections, including Reward and Mirage, feature UV-cured finishes. These floors are highly durable and should only be cleaned with pH-neutral hardwood cleaners.

Natural Oil & Hardwax Finishes

If you selected a natural oil finish (common in some Riva or Medallion styles), you may need specialized "soaps" that replenish the oil during the cleaning process. Consult with Victor or Alex at our San Carlos showroom for brand-specific recommendations.