So, you decided to upgrade your flooring with engineered hardwood. Not only is this product beautiful, but it also offers durability and longevity that are suitable for any lifestyle. The question is, what is the best way to keep them clean and are there products from which you should steer clear? Here, we’ll walk you through the best cleaning methods to protect your investment and keep your floors looking flawless.
Keeping Dirt and Dust at Bay
Engineered hardwood floors are designed to handle foot traffic, but regular care is essential. While you don’t have to deep clean your floors whenever someone walks on them, it is important to practice regular daily and weekly cleaning habits to ensure your floors look beautiful.
Daily
To prevent dirt and debris from scratching the surface, make it a habit to sweep or vacuum daily. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment, as this reduces the chance of scratches.
Pro Tip: Place mats at doorways to reduce the amount of dirt tracked onto the floor. This simple step can help maintain that polished look for longer.
Weekly
When it’s time for a more thorough clean, avoid excessive water, as moisture can damage engineered hardwood over time. Instead, use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop, which traps dust and dirt effectively without soaking the floor.
Cleaning Products for Engineered Hardwoods
Not all products are created equal, many products on the market contain harsh chemicals that can damage your floors, cause discoloration, or leave behind residue. It is important to have the right tools to keep your engineered hardwoods shiny and clean.
- Choose the Right Mop: A microfiber mop is gentle and won’t scratch the surface.
- Use Minimal Water: Wring out the mop well to avoid leaving any standing water.
- Clean with the Grain: Mop along the wood grain to get a thorough, streak-free clean.
What Cleaning Solutions to Use (and Avoid)
Engineered hardwood floors are tough, but they can be sensitive to certain cleaning products.
Here’s what you need to know:
What to Use:
- pH-Neutral Cleaners: Cleaners designed for hardwood that are pH-neutral are gentle enough
for engineered hardwood floors. Always read the label and dilute as instructed. - Vinegar Solutions: A diluted vinegar solution (one part vinegar to ten parts water) can work well for occasional deep cleaning. Just be careful not to use it too often, as overuse can dull the finish.
What to Avoid:
- Harsh Chemicals: Ammonia, bleach, and other harsh chemicals can erode the protective layer on your floor.
- Wax and Oil-Based Cleaners: These can leave residue and a sticky buildup over time, which can make floors look dull and attract more dirt.
- Steam Cleaners: While effective for other surfaces, steam cleaners are not safe for engineered hardwood, as the heat and moisture can warp the boards.
Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Spots
Sometimes, daily and weekly care isn’t enough to remove scuffs or spills that have set in. For these, use a slightly stronger approach without compromising your floors’ finish.
- Spot Clean: For stubborn marks, use a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner on a soft cloth and gently buff the area. Avoid using abrasive pads.
- Use a Hardwood-Safe Stain Remover: For tougher stains, a cleaner specifically designed for engineered wood can be a good choice. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging the floor.
Protecting Your Engineered Hardwood Floors for the Long Haul
To maximize the lifespan of your engineered hardwood, consider implementing a few extra precautions:
- Utilize Furniture Pads: Add felt pads to the legs of your furniture to avoid scratches.
- Avoid High Heels: Shoes with pointed heels can dent the surface.
- Rotate Rugs: Move area rugs periodically to avoid uneven wear on the floor.
Additional Tips for Engineered Hardwoods
Cleaning shouldn’t be the only thing at the top of your flooring checklist, ensuring they look new takes a bit more effort. 
Scratches: Minor scratches are inevitable but fixable! Use a wood touch-up marker in a color that matches your floor, or apply a hardwood filler to blend the scratch into the surrounding wood.
Polishing and Refinishing: Engineered hardwood can be lightly sanded and refinished, but the process is limited due to the thinner top layer. Consult with our flooring specialists at City Floor Supply before attempting any refinishing project.
Enjoy Your Beautiful Floors
With the right care, your engineered hardwood floors can look as good as new for years to come. Routine cleaning, the right products, and a few protective measures can go a long way in preserving their beauty and durability. Follow these tips to keep your floors in top shape, and enjoy the elegance and warmth they bring to your home!
Interested in learning more about hardwood flooring options? We offer a selection of Prefinished Engineered Hardwood and unfinished engineered hardwood.
