A mark on a hardwood floor can be frustrating, but it does not always have to stay there. With a gentle approach, many surface spots can be worked out without harming the finish or the grain. Here is the method the pros use, and how to try it safely at home.
As a member of the National Wood Flooring Association, we asked their technical team the best way to get a spot out of a hardwood floor. The answer was simpler than you would think.
The trick is to keep it gentle. The National Wood Flooring Association recommends a 10 to 1 mix of water and vinegar, or a little mineral oil, applied to the spot. The surprising tool for the job is a tennis ball.
Dab the solution onto the tennis ball and rub the spot back and forth across the floor. The ball gives you a nice pad with the right amount of pressure to work the mark out, without damaging the floor or the grain.
Always test one small, out of the way spot first to make sure you do not have any problems. Be cautious, go gently, and you have a good chance of lifting that stain.
Whether you want to stay on top of everyday care or you are starting to think about a new floor, here is where to head next.
A lot of hardwood gets worn down by everyday cleaning, usually from too much moisture or a cleaner that is harsher than the finish can take. Our guide covers how to keep your floor clean without wearing down the finish.
Maybe the spot is a sign the floor has seen better days, or you are simply ready for a change. Take a look at our hardwood selection and see what fits your home.
At Island Carpet Tile & Hardwoods, hardwood is right in our name, so we are glad to help whether you are caring for the floor you have or looking for a new one. If you have a question about a stain, a cleaner, or what your finish can handle, just ask us.
And when you are ready for new hardwood, there is a huge range out there, but only a handful are really right for a given home. Our job is helping you narrow it down to the floors that look right and live right in your space.
Whether you are caring for the floor you have or choosing a new one, we can help. Visit our Middletown showroom and we will talk through how to keep your hardwood looking its best, and show you what is new if you are ready.
