Cleaning & Maintenance Guide
Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to prolong the life and appearance of your flooring. Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about caring for your floors.
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Essential Tips
- • Regular cleaning extends flooring life
- • Immediate spill cleanup prevents damage
- • Use appropriate cleaners for floor type
- • Maintain proper humidity levels
- • Protect floors with pads and rugs
Resources
Floor Care by Type
General Care Tips
Regular Sweeping & Vacuuming
Sweep or vacuum your floors regularly (at least 2-3 times per week) to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can scratch the surface. Use a soft-bristled broom or vacuum with a hardwood floor setting.
Wipe Up Spills Immediately
Moisture is the enemy of most flooring types. Clean up any spills, water, or liquid immediately with a soft, damp cloth to prevent staining, swelling, or water damage.
Use Protective Mats
Place doormats at entryways and rugs under furniture to protect high-traffic areas. Use furniture pads under chairs and tables to prevent scratches and dents.
Maintain Proper Humidity
Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. Too much humidity can cause swelling, while too little can cause shrinkage. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed.
Hardwood Floor Care
Cleaning
- Use a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner
- Mop with a damp (not wet) microfiber mop
- Avoid excess water and harsh chemicals
- Never use oil-based cleaners or vinegar solutions
Maintenance
- Refinish floors every 3-5 years depending on traffic
- Use area rugs in high-traffic zones
- Avoid extreme temperature changes
- Keep floors waxed or sealed for protection
Laminate Floor Care
Cleaning
- Use laminate-specific cleaners
- Mop with a barely damp microfiber mop
- Never allow standing water on the surface
- Avoid wax or oil-based products
Protection
- Use furniture pads under all furniture
- Avoid dragging heavy objects
- Protect from kitchen spills quickly
- Use rugs in kitchens and bathrooms
Vinyl Floor Care
Cleaning
- Sweep or vacuum regularly
- Mop with vinyl-specific cleaner
- Use warm water with mild soap for tough stains
- Dry immediately after mopping
Maintenance
- Use furniture pads to prevent indentation
- Place mats in entryways to reduce dirt
- Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads
- Maintain proper indoor temperature and humidity
Tile Floor Care
Cleaning
- Use pH-neutral tile cleaner
- Scrub grout lines with a soft-bristled brush
- Dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks
- Avoid acidic cleaners that can damage grout
Grout Maintenance
- Seal grout within 72 hours of installation
- Reseal grout every 1-3 years
- Clean grout regularly to prevent staining
- Replace damaged or crumbling grout promptly
Carpet Care
Regular Cleaning
- Vacuum 2-3 times per week, daily in high-traffic areas
- Professional deep clean every 12-18 months
- Treat spills immediately with carpet cleaner
- Use baking soda for odor elimination
Stain Prevention
- Apply carpet protector at installation
- Use area rugs in high-traffic zones
- Blot spills immediately (don't rub)
- Use stain removal products appropriate for carpet fiber type
When to Call the Professionals
- Deep Stains: Professional cleaners have specialized equipment for stubborn stains
- Water Damage: Immediate professional assessment can prevent long-term damage
- Hardwood Refinishing: Professional refinishing ensures a smooth, beautiful finish
- Carpet Deep Cleaning: Professional equipment cleans deeper than household systems
