Are you a new homeowner who’s looking for floor maintenance tips? If you’ve just moved into a new home, congratulations! Fortunately, you’re in the right place.
You’re going to need help along the way in keeping your floors in good shape. You’re probably asking, why do we need to clean, maintain, or keep our floors? It can be tricky knowing how to care for it, isn’t it?
So, today, we have put together a quick floor guide to keep them looking as nice as they do when you first move in. Let’s get started!
1. Sweeping and Vacuuming
As new homeowners, it is important to know the basics of maintaining your floor. The first step should always be to sweep and vacuum the floor regularly. This will remove any dust and dirt that accumulates, as well as reduce the buildup of allergens.
Begin by sweeping the floors with a soft, bristled broom. This will help to remove any dirt particles that may have been tracked in from outside. Next, you should then vacuum the floors, paying special attention to high-traffic areas.
Vacuum in a horizontal and vertical pattern to remove all the particles. Lastly, be certain to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning hardwood, tile, laminate, or other flooring types.
2. Clean Up Spills Right Away
Liquid is one of the fastest ways to degrade a floor over time, so it’s crucial to soak up anything that drops onto the floor quickly. If spills are not taken care of promptly, they could result in long-term damage to the flooring.
Whether it’s water, juice, or even pet accidents, any splash or drip can seep into the material and stain the surface. Blot them up quickly using a paper towel or damp cloth and use a mild cleaning solution to remove any residue.
Moreover, avoid using a sponge which can spread the mess and create a bigger clutter. Failure to remove them at once can cause damage to the floor and can be hard to clean up once they have set in.
3. Use Appropriate Cleaning Agents
Use the right cleansers and disinfectants designed specifically for the flooring type in your home. This can include hardwood, tile, vinyl, or linoleum. Before applying the cleaning agent, read the labels carefully and make sure it is safe to use on your floor.
When cleaning, use a corner to corner strokes or a back-and-forth motion to ensure even coverage. In addition, it is advised to use natural and organic products that are safe for your family and pets.
Furthermore, you can also use baking soda, baking powder, or even hot water when fighting tough stains like coffee or tea spills. Keep in mind that natural cleaners are a great choice and will damage neither the floors nor the ozone layer.
4. Utilize Floor Protectors
Another awesome tip to keep up your floors is to use protectors. These can be area rugs, non-slip mats, and door mats. Also, you can place coasters and other objects made from rubber or cork under objects to avoid scratching.
Additionally, you may position your furnishings and other heavy objects on casters or sliders to limit wear and tear. Also, make use of mats under furniture legs to prevent scratches when you move them.
A rug located in high-traffic areas can help reduce scratches, especially on wooden floors. Lastly, replace worn mats and rugs frequently to ensure soil and dirt won’t break down the floor’s covering.
5. Consistent Spot Washing and Polishing
Spot washing is a great way to protect the floor from dust and stains that can easily accumulate over time. It should be done at least once a week to keep the floors looking clean and fresh.
On the other hand, polishing the floors will keep them looking glossy and new. You should then use a clean cloth to apply the polishing product, and follow the directions on how to use them.
Additionally, it should not be left for too long as it may cause the polish to dry and harden. To minimize scratches and scuffs, it is best to regularly buff the floor with a shoe shine brush and cleaner.
6. Investing in Occasional Sealants and Treatments
Sealing penetrates the surface of the flooring, protecting against wear and tear, mold, and mildew. Treatments can provide additional protection, such as water repellency, making floor maintenance easier.
For wood flooring, these products will help protect from UV damage, cracks, and fading. Moreover, make sure to reapply sealants yearly on stone and hardwood floors and check the condition of tile grout every few months.
Ultimately, maintaining the floor in a home starts with simple measures, and regular care can help avoid costly repairs or replacements.
Professional vs DIY Floor Maintenance
Professional floor maintenance is always recommended for newly installed floors, as this can help to maximize their life. These services can deep clean, rejuvenate, and take measures to protect your flooring.
However, DIY floor maintenance is an option for sustaining existing floors. It can be a more affordable and convenient solution when you need to regularly protect your floors. To make this process easier, consider the use of a floor tape applicator.
This tool is designed to make DIY floor maintenance easier and can be used to apply adhesive, sealers, and more to a variety of substrates. Regardless of which option you use, proper care is essential to maintain the life of your floors.
The Early Signs of Wear
The best way for a homeowner to stay ahead of floor wear is to routinely inspect and clean them. It is essential to establish a regular schedule of floor cleaning and inspection. Check the floors for:
- Loose boards or tiles
- Loose grout
- Water or moisture damage
- Discoloration or staining
If a repair or replacement is needed, deal with it promptly to avoid additional costly damage. In addition, select additional flooring materials that are easier to care for, such as tile or vinyl, instead of hardwood.
Paying attention to these signs will ensure that any needed repairs are addressed before the floor is beyond repair.
Tips to Protect Your Floors From Further Damage
Setting a regular preservation schedule is essential for all flooring types in a new home. Taking a few minutes each week to clean, polish, and repair can secure its life and beauty.
Keeping up with floor maintenance is a smart and simple way to guarantee safety and aesthetic beauty.
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