How to Clean Engineered Wood Floors

Engineered wood floors are beautiful. A sawn face engineered wood floor looks exactly the same as a solid wood floor because the top layer (the part you see) IS solid wood. So, how do you keep them looking beautiful, year after year? 

This month, we are sharing everything you need to know about cleaning and caring for engineered wood floors, along with helpful tips to keep your floors looking like new. But before we discuss how to clean them, let’s get you caught up on why engineered wood floors are becoming so popular! 

Why Choose Engineered Wood?

Engineered wood flooring is becoming today’s most popular (and fashionable) hardwood flooring choice—and for good reason. Their multilayered construction provides the authentic look of a solid hardwood floor, and at a price that is comparatively lower than what you would pay for solid wood. Here are some of the top reasons why choosing engineered wood flooring for your home is a great option:

• Durability
• Beautiful aesthetic, as it looks the same as solid wood
• Higher tolerance to moisture and fluctuating temperatures
• Easier to replace boards
• Can be installed in hard-to-fit areas
• Available in a wide variety of widths, colors, and styles

Now that you’re caught up on why engineered wood flooring is a great option, let’s dive into the best ways to keep it clean!

Use the Proper Tools and Cleaners 

Caring for your engineered wood floors is easy when you have the proper tools and cleaners. Here are the “dos” and “don’ts” for caring for your floors:

Do’s

• Use a vacuum to pick up any debris before mopping. If you choose to sweep, be sure the broom has soft bristles.
• Use a microfiber cloth or mop. Swiffer mops are great for safely cleaning engineered wood floors. If you use a traditional mop, be sure it is damp and not soaked. 
• Use cleaners that are specifically made for engineered wood floors, such as no-rinse formulas that are safer and gentler. Be sure to apply the cleaner to the mop and not directly on the floor. 

Don’ts

• Avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, and other heavily acidic cleaners, as they can cause permanent damage to engineered floors.
• Avoid using oils, soaps, or waxes, as these can damage your floors.
• Avoid abrasive cleaning tools that can leave deep scratches, such as steel wool pads. 
• Avoid using steam cleaners, as the hot water might not only cause moisture damage but also delaminate the top layer of your floor, making it more susceptible to future damage. 

Clean Up Spills Immediately

Accidents happen. If a liquid spills on your engineered wood floor, it is recommended to wipe it up immediately. Here are some other reasons why it’s important to clean up spills when they happen:

• While durable, these floors are not stain-proof. The sooner you remove the spill, the better—or else it may wind up becoming stained. 

• If spills are left behind, moisture may build up over time.

The good news? Just like hard wood floors, engineered wood floors can be sanded a few times throughout their lifetime, if necessary. (Check manufacturer guidelines for more information.)

Minimize Moisture Exposure

Although engineered wood floors are more resistant to moisture damage than hardwood floors, their top layer can still be susceptible to buckling if exposed to excessive moisture. Here’s what you need to know about minimizing your engineered floors to moisture exposure:

• Installation in bathrooms, laundry rooms, or any place where moisture can accumulate may be more susceptible to damage.
• Standing puddles can not only bring moisture to the area but will be particularly damaging to the floor.
• When mopping up any standing water, be sure to dry the floor properly afterward.

Ideal Engineered Wood Cleaning Schedule

Did you know that adhering to a regular cleaning schedule may help engineered wood floors last as long as 40 years? Here is what you need to know to maximize their lifespan,  as well as help maintain natural shine and luster:

• Clean/vacuum floors once a week
• Use quality cleaning tools and products designed for engineered floors
• Dry well with a microfiber cloth.

Additional Care Tips

• To avoid scratches in the floor, place felt protectors underneath furniture legs—especially when moving pieces around.
• If you have pets, make sure you keep their nails trimmed to a reasonable length as recommended by your veterinarian.
• Be sure to reference any specific care instructions that may be included with your floors.
• Strategically place mats or area rugs to maximize floor protection and coverage in areas that are vulnerable to scratches. Floor mats at entrances can also help prevent dirt from spreading as well as avoid scratching. 
• Protect flooring from sunlight whenever possible to avoid fading and color changes.
• If engineered flooring is installed in areas of the house that may gather moisture, such as a basement, a dehumidifier can help to protect the longevity of the floors.

Country Carpet Flooring & Interiors offer a variety of engineered hardwood floors in many different styles and colors that can be viewed directly in our showroom! You can always schedule an appointment at a time that works best for you. And walk-ins are always welcome. We look forward to seeing you!