Installing parquet flooring in your home has many positive aspects. It gives rooms an authentic and natural look, it can be used in almost any design, it is also durable and affordable. Maintenance isn't difficult either, although there are a few things to consider, such as whether your parquet is oiled, varnished or neither. In this article we will introduce you to methods with which you can do eachClean type of parquetcan. We will also give you tips on how to care for and protect it.
Cleaning parquet – How to generally care for your wooden floor
Before we tell you how to clean your parquet, let's briefly explain why you should do it. Parquet is made of wood. Wood is a natural material and easily absorbs moisture, grease and dirt. In order to enjoy your parquet floor for a long time, it is important to maintain it regularly.
Step 1: Vacuum and sweep.Vacuuming is a good first step to cleaning your hardwood floors. Since it is made of different sized pieces of wood, you can also use the vacuum cleaner to reach the dirt between the cracks.
Then sweep the parquet floor. Sweeping is important to pick up any dirt particles that the vacuum missed. You can use a normal broom for this, but also a dust-free dry mop. Some even have special wipes for wooden floors.
Step 2: Wipe with little water.When it is sealed, you can clean the parquet by using a damp mop. The trick is to use as little water as possible. Start in one corner of the room and mop in a figure eight to remove excess dirt. Wring out the mop thoroughly and mop the floor again to remove excess water until the parquet is dry.
- Notice: It is best to do the above steps once every two weeks. If you follow these steps regularly, you won't need to deep clean as often. This also prevents dirt from accumulating between the wooden panels.
For a deep clean, follow these steps
Step 1: Start with a general cleaning:Go through the steps of sweeping and vacuuming the floors.
Step 2: Get special products for hardwood floors or make your own cleaning solution:There are many different cleaning solutions for your parquet floors, but some not only clean the parquet but also seal it. This is important because additional sealing increases the longevity and durability of the floor.
- Tipp: Beware of commercial products that enrich the soil with nutrients and additives.
Warning!Avoid wax products or other cleaning products that promise a shine. These cause problems when it comes time to apply a new coating.
Cleaning parquet with dishwashing liquid – How to make your own cleaning solution? You don't necessarily have to purchase a commercial product if you prefer to make your own solution. Most home remedies that are safe for hardwood floors include a simple mixture of mild dishwashing detergent. Mix a bucket of warm water with ¼ cup (60 ml) of mild dishwashing detergent.
- Tipp: You can add a little vinegar (maximum 3 teaspoons) to remove grease stains from treated parquet floors. Do not use more than this amount because vinegar is a degreaser and can attack the oil coating. To be on the safe side, you can wipe your parquet floor again with just water.
Step 3:Mop the hardwood floors. The most important thing when mopping hardwood floors, regardless of cleaning product, is to use a minimal amount of water.
- If you purchased a commercial cleaner, make sure you follow the instructions and dilute the cleaner with the proper amount of water. Don't forget to empty the mop thoroughly after soaking it in water.
- Follow the same process if you use your own cleaning solution.
Warning!Water is an enemy for the health of wooden floors! Use as little as possible!
Tips on how to protect your parquet from dirt
The best solution to be able to clean your parquet is to prevent it from getting dirty in the first place. So you can never completely prevent the floor from getting dirty, but the following tips can help you.
- Get an area rug, which are heavily committed.
- Doormat: Wiping your shoes properly will leave less dirt on the floor. And less moisture in wet weather.
- Trim your pet's claws: Dogs scratch hardwood floors particularly easily when they are excited or have guests coming.
- Wipe away stains if necessary: If something spills on the floor, you should take a moment to wipe it up immediately.
Tipp: Spilled food or liquids are best cleaned with a damp cloth.
How can you remove scratches in wooden floors?You can find out here!
