Use the right maintenance product for your hardwood flooring finish.
Do not rely on the label saying it’s for hardwood floors. Always check what the flooring manufacturer recommends so as not to void your warranty.
Do not use a vacuum that has a beater bar.
The beater bar will ruin your floor’s finish. If it has a hard floor setting, please use that.
Never wet-mop hardwood; always damp mop.
Use drapes, shades, or shutters to prevent discoloration of the wood.
Always move area rugs around to allow light to reach all of the flooring as possible. This could be done on a semi-annual basis.
Never let any type of liquid stay on the wood for any period; i.e., spilled ice cubes from the refrigerator or water.
Never use a steam mop. Always use non-slip felt pads for the bottom of furniture so as not to scratch the hardwood.
And lastly, if you have pets, always keep their nails trimmed short.
