How to Clean Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking the classic look of hardwood with enhanced strength and durability. To maintain its beauty, regular cleaning and proper preservation are essential.

As a result, here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your engineered wood flooring and keeping it looking good for years to come.

@waxedfloors

Understanding Engineered Wood Flooring

Before we go into cleaning techniques, it's important to understand what engineered wood flooring is. Unlike pure hardwood, engineered wood is made up of a top layer of real wood veneer glued to many layers of plywood or high-density fibreboard. This structure is stable and resistant to humidity and temperature fluctuations, but it still requires regular maintenance to avoid damage.

Often, engineered wood flooring also requires an underlay, which is a thin layer of cushioning material placed between the subfloor and the wood flooring.

Regular Cleaning Routine

Daily Cleaning

1. Sweeping or Dust Mopping : Use a soft-bristle broom or a microfiber dust mop to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair. Avoid using a vacuum with a beater bar, as it can scratch the surface.
2. Spot Cleaning : For minor spills or spots, immediately wipe them up with a damp (not wet) cloth. Also avoid using excessive water, as it can seep into the seams and damage the core layers.

Discount Flooring Depot

Weekly Cleaning

Vacuuming: If you prefer vacuuming, use a vacuum designed for hard floors with a soft brush attachment. This will effectively remove dirt and debris from crevices and corners. This method is particularly suitable for herringbone engineered wood flooring, as it delicately cleans the floor without damaging the intricate design.

Mopping: Use a damp microfiber mop with a gentle cleaning solution specifically formulated for engineered wood floors. Avoid using excessive water, steam mops, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the floor’s finish and cause warping.

Carlisle Wide Plank Floors

Deep cleaning

Every few months, it’s a good idea to give your engineered wood floors a deeper clean:

Choose the right cleaner: Select a cleaner specifically designed for engineered wood flooring. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, wax, or oil-based soaps, as they can leave residues that dull the finish.

Dilute the cleaner: Follow the manufacturers instructions for diluting the cleaner as using too much cleaner can leave a residue.

Mop the floor: It is a good idea to use a well-wrung damp microfibre mop to clean the floor. Work in small sections and make sure the mop is not soaking wet.

Dry the floor: After mopping, dry the floor with a clean, dry microfibre cloth or mop to ensure no moisture is left behind. 

Twenty & Oak

Stain Removal Tips

Food and Drink Spills : Blot the spill immediately with a dry cloth. Clean the area with a damp cloth and a small amount of wood floor cleaner if necessary. Dry thoroughly.

Oil and Grease : For stubborn grease or oil stains, use a soft cloth with a few drops of dish soap diluted in water. Wipe the area gently, then rinse with a damp cloth and dry immediately.

Scuff Marks : Remove scuff marks with a soft cloth slightly dampened with water. For tougher marks, use a bit of baking soda on a damp cloth and rub gently.

Ink or Dye : Dab the stain with a cloth slightly dampened with rubbing alcohol. Test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish. 

Peel Oak

Preventative Measures

1. Use Mats and Rugs: Place mats at entryways to trap dirt and moisture, and use rugs in high-traffic areas and under furniture to protect the floor.
2. Furniture Pads: Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches. Avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floor.
3. Control Indoor Humidity: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent the wood from expanding or contracting.
4. Regular Maintenance: Periodically check for loose planks or gaps and tackle them promptly to prevent further damage.

What to Avoid

1. Excessive Water: Never use excessive water or a soaking mop. Moisture can seep into the seams and damage the core layers.
2. Harsh Cleaners: Avoid cleaners with ammonia, vinegar, or wax. These can damage the finish and dull the floor.
3. Steam Cleaners: Steam cleaners can cause the wood to warp and damage the finish. Stick to dry or damp mopping methods.

Old World Timber

How to clean engineered wood flooring vs laminate flooring

Cleaning engineered wood floors and laminate floors requires different approaches due to their distinct constructions. For engineered wood flooring, use a soft-bristle broom or microfiber dust mop for daily cleaning, and a damp microfiber mop with a gentle, wood-specific cleaner for deeper cleaning, ensuring to avoid excessive water and harsh chemicals.

In contrast, laminate flooring, which has a protective top layer, can be cleaned with a vacuum designed for hard floors or a slightly damp mop using a mild, laminate-safe cleaner. Unlike engineered wood, laminate is more resistant to moisture but still should not be soaked. Both types benefit from immediate cleanup of spills and the use of mats to prevent dirt and moisture accumulation.

The Spruce

By following these cleaning tips and preventative measures, you can keep your engineered wood flooring looking beautiful and prolong its lifespan. Ultimately, regular maintenance and care are key to enjoying the timeless elegance of your engineered wood floors for years to come.

If you have any further questions on engineered wood flooring, or you would just like to know some further information about the products we sell at Howarth, please visit your local friendly Howarth branch, or contact our customer services on the number 01472 907051.

Likewise, the Garden and Landscaping category on our Inspiration & Advice page is full of other helpful flooring guides, ranging from how to lay laminate flooring , cleaning laminate flooring , and how to lay vinyl flooring .

You can also explore our wide range of engineered wood flooring on our website here, or you can even visit us in branch for more information.