Things You'll Need
Broom
Dust pan
Lightweight vacuum
Sponge mop
Bucket
Hardwood floor cleaner
Towel
Entrance mats
Area rugs
Felt pads
Have you recently invested in your home by installing white oak flooring? Do you live in an older home and enjoy the charm of the original oak wood floors? If you are in either of these positions, or somewhere in between and have white oak wood floors, you will want to properly care for and maintain them. Proper care will keep the flooring's luster beautiful and help maintain the value added to your home by having hardwood floors.
Keeping the floors clean.
Step 1
Dust and debris on oak floors can scratch and dull the surface. Regular sweeping and vacuuming will keep the floors beautiful and protect them from damage. Keeping dust and other particles off the floors also eliminates allergens that settle on the wood and would be trapped in carpets. Use either a broom and dust pan or lightweight vacuum to remove the dirt.
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Step 2
Mopping frequently is not necessary. When mopping oak floors, use a lightly damp sponge mop. Avoid string mops and excess water. Be sure to use only cleaners that are formulated to be used on polyurethane covered hardwood floors, and carefully follow the directions. While mopping, squeeze all excess water out of the mop and rinse thoroughly with clean water after mopping. Towel dry the floors to reduce the amount of time the hardwood is damp.
Step 3
Spot cleaning hardwood floors will keep them clean between wet mopping. Simply cleaning up small areas that are soiled will keep the floors looking clean and fresh without the need to mop the entire floor as frequently. Occasional spot cleaning will reduce the amount of exposure to dampness and chemicals from mopping.
Protecting the floors from damage.
Step 1
Entrance mats and area rugs are the simplest way to protect your oak wood floors. The dirt and debris that is carried in on shoes scratches and dulls the polyurethane finish covering the hardwood. Have a mat outside each entrance to the home. Place area rugs in high-traffic areas and under furniture where family members and guests will often be sitting.
Step 2
Promptly clean up any spills. Extra care is needed in rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms where water is regularly used. Avoid letting drips fall to the floor around sinks and bathtubs. Keep mats in these areas to protect the floor from dripping water. If your air conditioner and furnace allow you to control the humidity in your home, keep the humidity level between 35 and 50 percent.
Step 3
Be aware of common things around your home that will damage the floors. Use felt pads under furniture, especially chairs that will be moved frequently. Simple things such as damaged shoes can scratch the floor. Watch for broken heels or rocks stuck in the sole of your shoes. If you have pets in the home, keep their toenails trimmed.
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