How to Care for Hardwood Floors for Tenants
- 1). Place area rugs and floor mats in high-traffic areas to keep dirt and debris from being tracked across and scratching the hardwood floor. Use rugs and mats are made for floors, not carpet; do not choose rugs or mats that are nonventilated or rubber-backed.
- 2). Sweep the floor at least twice a week to remove dirt and debris that has accumulated. Before sweeping, shake out the rugs and mats so that you can sweep up the dirt and debris that collected on those surfaces as well. Use a dust mop frequently, as well as a vacuum with an attachment made specifically for hardwood floors.
- 3). Minimize the floor's exposure to water, which can warp the wood if left on too long. If you must clean the floor with water, use a clean, rung-out rag or dry mop sprayed with a pH-balanced cleanser recommended by the floor's manufacturer. Do not use oil soap, wet mops, ammonia, dust cleaners or products made for cleaning other types of flooring; never wax a floor that has a urethane finish.
- 4). Be careful when moving furniture. Lift furniture to move it across the room; dragging can leave scratches and grooves in the floor. Place felt protector pads underneath the legs of all tables, couches and chairs so they don't damage the hardwood floor during everyday use.
- 5). Limit the floor's exposure to sun, as this can cause the wood to change colors over time. Keep blinds and curtains closed; if you must open them, hang sheer drapes to let in the light, but keep out the sun's rays.
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