How To Clean Commercial Hardwood Floors
Commercial hardwood floors exude elegance and professionalism, enhancing the aesthetics of any workspace. However, to maintain their beauty and longevity, regular and proper cleaning is essential. Here are some valuable insights and step-by-step instructions on how to effectively clean commercial hardwood floors. From choosing the right cleaning products to implementing best practices, we'll cover everything you need to know to achieve sparkling results and preserve the natural beauty of your hardwood floor surfaces.
Having clean and well-maintained hardwood flooring in your commercial space not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to a healthier and more inviting environment. Here's a guide From Arizona Hardwood Floor Supply with a step-by-step guide to effective cleaning and maintaining your commercial hardwood floors. From choosing the right cleaning products to implementing easy techniques, we've got you covered.
The Importance Of Proper Cleaning
Cleaning commercial hardwood floor areas is about more than just appearances. It plays a crucial role in creating a safe and healthy workspace for your employees and visitors. Regular cleaning helps eliminate dust, allergens, and dirt that can accumulate over time, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergies. Additionally, proper cleaning protects the hardwood from scratches, wear, and damage, prolonging its lifespan and saving you from costly repairs or replacements. By following the right cleaning practices, you not only maintain the beauty of your wood floor’s finish but also create a positive impression on clients and employees alike.
Choosing The Right Cleaning Products
Selecting the right store-bought wood floor cleaner is essential to ensure the longevity and beauty of your wood flooring. It's crucial to use products specifically formulated for hardwood surfaces, as they are designed to clean without causing damage or leaving residue. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or excessive water, as these can lead to discoloration, warping, or swelling of the wood.
When shopping for cleaning products, look for those labeled as "hardwood floor cleaners" or "pH-neutral floor cleaners." These gentle solutions are safe for use on hardwood surfaces and provide effective cleaning results. Consider using environmentally friendly and non-toxic options to promote a healthier workplace environment.
It’s always best to know what finish you have on the floor to select the correct hardwood flooring cleaning solution. Some finishes on the market that state “Hardwood flooring cleaner“is designed for urethane finishes but will not work with oil-applied finishes. So choosing the right cleaner could be based on what product you have installed. See your wood flooring manufacturer product data to select the correct cleaning product you need.
Commercial wood flooring and Sports wood flooring are like one another due to the high traffic each floor receives. Though you should not use a commercial wood floor cleaner on a sport wood floor. Again, the best way to select the correct product would be to review the product data for your flooring that is installed or contact your representative from AZ Hardwood.
Basic Cleaning Techniques
Before jumping into the cleaning process, it's important to start by grabbing a soft-bristle broom, a microfiber dust mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment and give the floor a once-over to collect any loose particles or debris. Pay close attention to objects that could scratch the floor (Pebbles, rocks, metal objects or etc.)
Here are the basic cleaning techniques for commercial hardwood flooring:
Damp Mopping - Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of the recommended wood flooring cleaner. Dip a microfiber mop or a well-wrung mop into the solution. Remember, excess water can harm the wood, so make sure the mop is damp, not wet. Start mopping the floor in sections, moving with the grain of the wood to avoid streaks. Rinse the mop frequently and change the cleaning solution if it becomes dirty. Allow the floor to air dry, or use a dry microfiber mop to remove any excess moisture.
“DO NOT” place walk-off mats or rugs until you know the area they'll be placed is fully dry. Trapping moisture on a wood floor can result in cupping or damage to your wood floor.
Spot Cleaning - For spills or stains, it's important to address them promptly to prevent damage to the hardwood. Grab a damp cloth or sponge and gently blot the affected area. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain or push it deeper into the wood. If needed, apply a small amount of hardwood floor cleaner directly onto the stain and gently rub with a soft cloth. Once the stain is removed, rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your commercial hardwood flooring looking its best. Here are some additional tips to incorporate into your floor cleaning routine:
Mats For Floor Protection
Placing the right type of mat or rug in high-traffic areas is key to protecting your wood floor and minimizing damage for the life of the floor. Always place them at entryways and in front of potential wet areas such as sinks, beverage stations, and banquet tables to minimize the amount of debris and moisture that reaches the floor area. Place felt-type protectors under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents when moving or rearranging furniture. If you have office chairs with wheels, make sure you have “Neoprene Wheels on the legs or feet.”
A hard plastic wheel or metal wheel will wear out the finish on the floor very quickly.
Encourage employees and visitors to wipe their shoes off on the welcome mats when entering your facility.
Regular Sweeping And Dusting
Establish a regular sweeping and dusting routine to remove surface dust, dirt, and debris that can accumulate and potentially scratch wood floors.
Use a soft-bristle broom, a microfiber dust mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a hardwood floor attachment to gently sweep or dust the floors. Ensure that the vacuum cleaner is set to the appropriate height to avoid scratching the floor surface. A backpack vacuum cleaner with a Soft Bristol head attachment is best for cleaning commercial hardwood flooring
Prevent Water Damage
Wood and excess moisture don't mix well, so it's important to avoid excessive water during the cleaning process. Clean up spills immediately using a damp cloth or sponge, and dry the area thoroughly to prevent water from seeping into the wood.
When mopping, make sure the mop is only damp, not dripping wet. Excessive water can cause warping, swelling, or damage to the wood. Consider using a microfiber mop or a mop specifically designed for wood flooring, as they absorb less water and provide better control.
Gentle Cleaning Techniques
Avoid using abrasive tools or harsh chemicals that can damage the wood flooring. Stick to soft, non-abrasive materials such as microfiber cloths or mops.
Use cleaning products specifically formulated for hardwood floors, following the manufacturer's instructions for dilution and application. If in doubt, you can always spot-test a small, inconspicuous area of the floor before applying any new cleaning products or techniques.
Professional Cleaning And Maintenance
While regular cleaning is important, periodic professional cleaning and maintenance can help revitalize and extend the lifespan of your commercial hardwood floors. Consider scheduling professional deep cleaning and maintenance services at regular intervals to address any stubborn stains, restore the shine, and ensure optimal floor health.
You've learned the essential steps and best practices for cleaning and maintaining your commercial hardwood floors. By choosing the right cleaning products, implementing proper techniques, using a pH-neutral floor cleaner, and incorporating regular maintenance into your routine, you can keep your hardwood flooring looking beautiful and inviting for years to come. Remember, a clean and well-maintained environment not only enhances the aesthetics but also contributes to a healthier and happier workspace. So, roll up your sleeves, put these tips into action, and enjoy the sparkling results of your hard work!
Contact Arizona Hardwood Floor Supply Today!
If you're interested in learning more about hardwood services and installation, we invite you to take some time to visit our Wood Flooring 101 page. We welcome you to visit us at any of our Valley locations. Give us a call at (623) 742-9663 (WOOD) to speak to one of our friendly estimators, or click here to contact us.