One of the safest and easiest processes of keeping our hardwood floor neat and in good shape is by damp mopping. This can be done from time to time to keep your hardwood floor beautiful. It is a simple method of cleaning and doesn’t require much stress to get it done.
In this post, we would discuss how to damp mop hardwood floors. Firstly, get the needed materials ready, then, sweep and vacuum your hardwood floor. Finally, Start the mopping process by then dipping your mop into the container of water and wringing off any excess moisture on the mop.
Read on as we throw more light on this.
Related: Can You Use a Steam Mop on Hardwood Floors
How to Damp Mop Hardwood Floors
Table of Contents
Here is a step-by-step instruction on how to damp mop hardwood floor. Damp mopping is anything but hard if the steps are followed duly.
1. Get the Tools and Materials Needed Ready
You would have to get the needed tools and materials ready for the job. This material includes; a mop, vacuum, broom, and water.
There are various types of mop that you can pick from. You can choose microfiber or sponge mop. They are effective and a popular choice.
2. Sweep and Vacuum Your Floor
You would have to sweep and vacuum your floor to get rid of dirt, dust, and debris from your home. This is because dirt and dust affect your hardwood floor. Make use of a soft broom or vacuum. Do not make use of a vacuum with a beater bar.
3. Start the Cleaning Process
Firstly, you would have to fill a container with water, then dip your mop into the container of water. Make sure you wring off any excess moisture on the mop.
This is done to avoid damaging your hardwood floor. This gives you a not-too-wet that you would use to work over the hardwood floors.
Read: Can you Mop Wood Floors With Bleach
Do’s and Don’ts of Damp Mopping Hardwood Floors
Here is a detailed rule on the do’s and don’t’s when damp mopping the hardwood floor. It would guide you through the process and make for a smoother journey.
1. Do Not Use Beater Bars While Vacuuming
It is not Advisable to Vacuum your hardwood floor with a beater bar. They end up scratching the floor and making it a shadow of its usual self. They end up thrashing the bristle against the finish. It only damages the floor.
You can turn off the beater bar with a soft floor nozzle. Some vacuums have a handle where you can turn off the beater bar, especially when you are about cleaning the hardwood floor.
2. Do Not Wet Mop Hardwood Flooring
It is not advisable to wet mop hardwood flooring as it might cause damage to the floor. You can instead, damp mop your hardwood floor. Do not use a dripping mop on the hardwood. Ensure you wring off the moisture on the mop before you make use of it. Excess water damages not only your floor but your subfloor too.
3. Make Use of a Wood Floor Friendly Mop
While mopping your floor ensure to use mops or clothes that do not easily get wet but maintain their damp state for a while. You can make use of microfiber or a sponge mop. They do not get wet easily. They can only get wet if you dip them for so long in a water-filled bucket.
4. Do not Use Stiff Brooms
Do not make use of stiff brooms while trying to get rid of dirt and grit from your floor. Do not make use of the bristle brush that you use for your garage and sidewalks for your hardwood floor. It would leave marks and scratches on the floor.
5. Make Use of a Soft-Bristle Brush
Soft bristle brooms for the best on your hardwood floor. They are soft enough on the hardwood finish and are well angled to help sweep hidden corners of your room and under the cabinet. They are the best type of broom for your hardwood floor.
6. Do not Use Soap, Waxes, or Polishes on Your Floor
Endeavor not to use soap, polish, or waxes on your hardwood floor. They worsen the condition of your floor. Soap leaves behind residue in its wake.
While wax forms an unnecessary buildup on the floor and ends making the floor slip. While polish would make your finish lose its glimmer.
7. Choose a Neutral Cleaning Solution
When making your choice on the type of cleaning solution you would like to use. You should go for a neutral cleaning solution that won’t cause harm to your floor. Do not use vinegar on the hardwood floor. It causes damage.
Read: Best Floor Cleaning Liquids
Conclusion
Damp mopping hardwood floors is one of the safest approaches to keeping our wood floors neat and in good shape. We gave a detailed step on how to damp mop hardwood floors.
This article was written to give you in-depth knowledge on how to damp mop hardwood floors and we hope it gave you the knowledge you require. We implore you to kindly share it across your social media platforms.