Newly installed matte finish hardwood floors add elegance to your home with their striking appearance and refined texture. But, as with any flooring type, regular maintenance is essential to preserve its beauty. Hence, the question arises of how to clean your matte finish hardwood floors effectively.
To clean, sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dirt or dust. Next, mix warm water with an approved hardwood floor cleaner to prepare a cleaning solution. After that, dampen the mop or cloth with the solution and clean the floor.
Once you’re done cleaning, use a soft rag or cloth to remove excess moisture. Allow the floor to dry entirely before proceeding.
This guide will lead you through the steps necessary to maintain your matte finish hardwood floors. We will also discuss the frequency of cleaning and the most effective cleaning solutions. So, let’s dig deeper and ensure your floors gleam with luster and longevity.
How Do You Clean Matte Finish Hardwood Floors: DIY Steps
Cleaning matte-finish hardwood floors requires special care to avoid damaging the delicate finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your matte finish hardwood floors:
- Step 01: Gather the necessary supplies
- Step 02: Start by sweeping or vacuuming
- Step 03: Prepare a cleaning solution
- Step 04: Dampen the mop or cloth
- Step 05: Clean the floor
- Step 06: Wipe up any excess moisture
- Step 07: Allow the floor to dry
- Step 08: Polish or buff the floor (if recommended)
Step 01: Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before maintaining your beautiful wooden surfaces, ensure you have all the essential tools. You’ll need a broom or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any loose dirt and debris from your floors.
A microfiber or soft cloth mop can wipe away any remaining dust or dirt particles. Remember not to use any abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on your matte-finish hardwood floors, as they can damage the finish.
In addition to the cleaning tools, you’ll need a bucket and warm water. Using a hardwood floor cleaner specifically designed for matte finishes is important, as other products can leave residue or streaks. Be sure to read the labels and instructions for cleaning products.
Step 02: Start By Sweeping or Vacuuming
To maintain the natural beauty of your wooden surfaces, begin by sweeping or vacuuming with a soft-bristled broom or vacuum cleaner attachment. This will gently remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris without risking scratches on your floors.
Focus on high-traffic areas that are more prone to collecting dirt and dust. For any stubborn debris or stains, use a damp cloth or mop to clean the affected area gently.
Step 03: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Start by filling a bucket with warm water and adding the appropriate amount of floor cleaner designed for matte finishes. Mix the solution thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the cleaner.
When preparing the cleaning solution, using the right dilution ratio is crucial. Too much cleaner can leave a residue on your floors, while too little will not be effective. A properly prepared solution will help remove dirt and grime without damaging wood.
Step 04: Dampen the Mop or Cloth
Now, dip your microfiber or soft cloth mop into the cleaning solution. Make sure it’s not too wet, so you can gently wipe away any dirt and grime without harming your wooden floors.
Remember, excessive moisture can damage your floors. So, wring out any excess cleaning solution from the mop before you begin.
When dampening the mop or cloth, ensure it is evenly coated with the cleaning solution. Use a wringing motion to ensure the mop is not too soaked, as this can cause water stains or even warp the wood.
Step 05: Clean the Floor
Gently mop with a damp microfiber or cloth to restore the natural beauty of wooden surfaces without damaging them. Work in small sections using back-and-forth motions, avoiding excessive pressure or vigorous scrubbing that can damage the matte finish.
Focus on using a gentle touch and periodically rinse the mop or cloth in the cleaning solution and wring it out. Pay attention to stubborn spots or stains and use a slightly more concentrated cleaning solution and water to spot-clean these areas.
Avoid leaving excess moisture on the floor, which can damage the finish. With a little patience and care, cleaning matte-finish hardwood floors is easy and will leave them looking new again.
Step 06: Wipe Up Any Excess Moisture
Grab a clean and dry microfiber cloth or mop to wipe up any leftover moisture after mopping your wooden surfaces. This will prevent water spots and maintain the beauty of your hardwood floors, especially if they have a matte finish.
It’s crucial to do this step as water spots show up more prominently on matte finish floors. Using a clean microfiber cloth or mop can prevent water spots and maintain the longevity of your hardwood floors. Plus, it’ll make your floors look stunning.
Step 07: Allow the Floor to Dry
With matte-finish hardwood floors, you need to exercise extra precautions to prevent scratching, scuffing, or permanent finish damage. Waiting for at least several hours before stepping on it ensures that it is entirely dry.
You can expedite drying by opening windows or doors to allow better ventilation or using fans to improve airflow. And avoid using heat sources like radiators or hair dryers as this may cause the wood to crack or bend.
Also, remember to check for remaining moisture on the floor and remove it using a dry towel or mop to hasten the drying time.
Step 08: Polish or Buff the Floor (If Recommended)
To maintain the appearance of your hardwood floors, occasional polish or buffing is recommended. For matte finishes, it is crucial to give extra attention to keep its appearance intact.
Polish or buffing can help remove minor scratches or scuffs and revive the shine of the surface. To make sure you are using the appropriate products and techniques for your flooring, it is advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult a professional.
Over-polishing or buffing can result in damage to the surface and cause it to lose its matte finish, so it is essential to be cautious.
How Often Should You Clean Matte Finish Hardwood Floors?
If you want to maintain the appearance and lifespan of your matte-finish hardwood floors, it’s recommended that you clean them thoroughly at least once a week. This is especially crucial if your floors see a lot of traffic, as this can help prevent scratches and damage to the finish.
You may need to clean your floors more frequently if you have kids or pets, as they bring in more dirt and debris. When cleaning your floors, it’s essential to use gentle cleaning solutions that are specifically designed for hardwood floors.
Can You Use Vinegar to Clean Matte Finish Hardwood Floors?
Using vinegar on matte hardwood floors can damage the surface because of it’s high pH (acidic nature) and strips away the finish. Instead, choose a cleaner made for hardwood floors with a matte finish that is pH-neutral and safe to use.
Look for a non-abrasive product that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals and effectively removes dirt and grime without harming the surface. Using the proper cleaner will keep floors looking their best for a long time.
Is it Necessary to Seal Matte Finish Hardwood Floors After Cleaning?
Maintaining the natural beauty of your matte-finish hardwood floors is easy if you know how to care for them properly. After cleaning, it is not necessary to reseal them.
The protective coating on matte finishes allows for resistance against common spills and stains, cleaning and maintaining them all year round effortlessly. But, you may need to refinish or apply another sealant if your floors look worn or damaged over time.
When cleaning your matte finish hardwood floors, be mindful of using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that can harm the protective coating. Instead, use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft mop or cloth to wipe away dirt and grime.
Investing in the Care of Your Matte-Finish Hardwood Floors
Cleaning your hardwood floors is more than just keeping them looking beautiful. It’s a way to show appreciation for your property and create a safe environment for those around you.
Regular sweeping or vacuuming removes dirt and debris and prevents scratches and damage to your matte-finished hardwood floors. Using a gentle cleaning solution and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive tools will maintain the finish and prolong the lifespan of your investment.
Caring for your hardwood matte finish floors demonstrates responsible home ownership and sets an example for others to follow. The satisfaction of a job well done is not just visual but holistic, promoting well-being and creating a welcoming space for yourself and your loved ones.
So, turn on your favorite tunes, and enjoy the process of nurturing your home.
