Clean prefinished hardwood floors with vinegar to remove buildup.
Homeowners often choose hardwood floors for the beauty and elegance they bring to a room. However, traditional hardwood floors require a good deal of time and energy to maintain, so many people turn to prefinished hardwood floors. Prefinished floors are manufactured with a layer or protectant already installed, making them easier to clean and maintain. Removing buildup from prefinished hardwood is not difficult and will keep your floors looking shiny and new.
Instructions
1. Remove all furniture and rugs from the room. Have a helper assist you in picking up large objects such as couches and desks, since sliding them can severely damage the floor.
2. Sweep the floor with a soft-bristled broom to remove dust and grime. The floor must be free of dust before you can remove buildup. Scoop up debris with a dustpan and dispose of it in the garbage can.
3. Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into a bucket. Add 1 gallon of hot water and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Stir the mixture gently with a mop to combine it. The vinegar effectively removes buildup on prefinished hardwood floors without damaging them. Lemon juice helps to further break down stubborn buildup and adds a pleasant scent.
4. Dip the mop into the solution and ring out the mop to remove excess moisture. Run the mop over the floor in the direction of the wood grain. Prefinished hardwood's protective coating can be damaged if too much water comes in contact with the floor. The mop head should feel damp to the touch, but should not be dripping water.
5. Scrub stubborn spots with a scrub brush. Wet the brush in the bucket and scrub the spot in a circular motion, pushing down firmly as you scrub. The bristles of the brush will penetrate the spot and break it up while leaving the prefinished coating intact.
6. Dry the floor with a rag after mopping. Drying the floor with a large, soft rag such as a terry cloth towel will lift excess moisture from the surface and polish the floor to a shine. Replace furniture once the floor is totally dry.
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