Hardwood floors are bound to become a bit dull from use, wear and scratches. If you’re looking for how to wax hardwood floors naturally, then we have got you covered.
You can restore the luster to the floors by waxing and this will get the floors looking brand new. But if you do not want to use harsh chemicals, you can wax hardwood floors naturally.
Waxing hardwood floors naturally can be done by using any of these three types of waxes, solid paste wax, liquid wax and moisture-based wax. Keep on reading for more details on the application of these waxes and the tools needed.
Read: Best for wax for hardwood floors
How to Wax Hardwood Floors Naturally
Table of Contents
To wax hardwood floors, you will need some materials; you also need to make adequate preparation as well. Before waxing your hardwood floor, you will need to select a suitable type of wax that is right for your floors.
There are three types of wax that can be used on hard floors:
Solid Paste Wax
This gives your wood floor an old rustic look; it is a great wax option if you’re looking to save time and money. It doesn’t take much time to apply and dry and adheres to the floor surface quickly; it is also an inexpensive option.
You’ll need to touch up your floor from time to time to maintain the shine. A solid paste wax should only be used on unvarnished hardwood or unfinished cork or non-wood surfaces like linoleum or concrete; it should not be used on vinyl, urethane-finished, or no-wax floors.
Solid paste wax is available in cans and has a thick consistency; the wax contains more wax than solvent.
Liquid Wax
It is also known as oil wax and is easier to apply than solid wax, you don’t have to be perfect in its application, and this saves time and effort as you wax the floor.
Liquid wax is available in three options; glossy, semi-glossy, and matte finish; you can opt for the one that suits your individual preference best.
When applied, liquid wax adheres securely to the floor and can be used on unfinished cork, unvarnished hardwood, concrete, or linoleum floor.
Liquid wax has a thin consistency as it contains more solvent than wax which makes it more spreadable; it cannot be applied on vinyl, urethane-finished, and no-wax floors.
Read: How long does it take to wax floors
Moisture-Based Wax
This is a water-based silicone wax and is very durable compared to solid and liquid wax. When applied to a hardwood floor, it offers protection from scratches and scuffs.
However, moisture-based waxes cause hardwood floors to develop a white tinge, and proper ventilation is crucial when handling this product because it releases a volatile scent during application.
You may need professional help with the application as moisture-based wax usually requires different application processes according to the floor type you have.
You can apply moisture-based waxes on vinyl and urethane-finished floors, but it is unsuitable for unsealed hardwood, cork, or linoleum floors.
For the wax application, you’ll need a few tools handy, including;
- Gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals in the wax paste.
- Dust mask to protect your lungs from the inhalation of the toxic fumes released while waxing.
- Knee pads to protect your knees from bruises as you apply the solid wax paste.
- Putty knife to apply the solid wax paste.
- A lint-free cloth is also needed when applying solid wax paste; it prevents accidentally sealing lint between the layers of wax as you apply it to the floor.
- Sponge mop is needed for liquid wax application.
- Bucket for floor cleanup.
- Buffing pads to give the floor a final touch-up after applying each waxing coat. Buffing adds sheen to your wax layer.
- A polishing brush is only needed when you are performing motorized buffing instead of a manual. If using, you need a fine brush to achieve the best buffing results.
Steps to Waxing Hardwood Floors Naturally
Clean the Floor
Start by clearing out the area you want to apply wax to remove all the furniture to allow you to get unrestricted access to the floor.
Then use a wax stripping agent or mineral spirit to remove the previous layer of wax from the floor. Buff the floor with a cloth dampened with a stripping agent, rub the cloth in a back and forth motion until the old wax layer is removed. Ensure the room is properly ventilated so that the created fumes can escape.
Use a vacuum to clean the area, remove loose dirt, and then mop the floor with a damp cloth to completely remove any dust particles that could settle under the new wax coating, ruining the final result.
When the floor is clean, use a lint-free cloth to wipe off the surface to achieve a clean look.
Read: How to strip and wax a gym floor
Wax the Floor
Using Solid Paste Wax
Apply a small amount of wax paste to a clean white cloth and buff your floor using circular motion if you have a patterned hardwood floor or buff along the grain of wood if you have a wooden plank floor.
After applying the wax, allow it dry for the recommended time stated on the wax package. Next, use your hands and a dry pad or a buffing machine to buff the floor.
Using Liquid Wax
Apply a thin layer of liquid wax to a clean cloth and rub it in the direction of your wood’s grain; this evenly spreads out the wax all over your hardwood floor.
When the entire floor surface is covered, allow the wax to dry for the recommended time stated on its package before going in with a dry pad or a buffing machine to buff the floor.
Then apply another thin layer of wax for a double layer of protection and allow it to dry fully as well. Buff your hardwood floor again to bring out its shine.
Using Water-Based Silicone Wax
Use a foam brush or latex paint pad applicator to apply the water-based silicone wax to your hardwood floor following the wood’s grain direction; this enhances the natural wood texture.
Allow the wax to dry fully before buffing the floor with a dry pad or a buffing machine to remove its luster and shine.
Read: How long does it take polyurethane to cure
Conclusion
If you are looking for methods on how to wax hardwood floors naturally, here we go: You can wax hardwood floors naturally using solid paste wax, liquid wax, or water-based silicone wax.
Either method restores the shine and beauty of your hardwood floor, which might have been dulled due to scratches, wear, and damage.