Cleaning your engineered wood flooring is important, but before you get started, you'll want to make sure you understand what it is, that you’re aware of the best ways to clean it, and how you can care for it going forward.
Read on to discover effective solutions and expert tips to tackle cleaning and keep your engineered wood flooring pristine for years to come.
What is engineered wood flooring made of?
It can be handy to know what engineered wood flooring is made of to get a better understanding of cleaning it properly.
Engineered wood flooring is manufactured with multiple layers of wood pressed together to form a strong and stable flooring option.
These layers include a top veneer of hardwood, providing the desired look and feel, followed by layers of plywood or high-density fibreboard.
This creates a floor with the strength it needs and the look of natural timber at a fraction of the cost. It is also less likely to expand and contract with changes in temperature, unlike solid hardwood floors.
What is the best finish for engineered wood flooring?
If you’re ahead of the buying process, you might be wondering, what is the best finish for engineered wood flooring?
You always want to minimise how easily floors stain or how often marks appear, and the finish will often determine that.
Check out our guide on which engineered wood flooring is best for you. However, to summarise, you’ll want to pick a finish that depends on your priorities.
Polyurethane finishes offer durability and water resistance, making them good for high-traffic areas and spaces prone to moisture exposure, such as bathrooms.
If you prefer a more natural look, oil-based finishes enhance the wood's natural beauty and are easier to repair. We will cover how to clean these surfaces later in the article.
Water-based finishes are a fantastic eco-friendly option, drying faster and emitting fewer fumes during application.
Take the time to explore different finish options to find the one that suits your needs best.
How to clean engineered wood flooring
To clean your engineered wood flooring, it is recommended that you sweep it and clean it from time to time to remove dust, debris, or loose stains.
When cleaning it, use a damp mop with a wood floor cleaner to ensure it does not saturate the floor. Never use harsh chemicals on your flooring, and avoid anything that might cause damage to the wood.
Wipe up spills immediately if they happen, and place doormats at entryways to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture brought onto the flooring.
Furniture pads can be a good idea to prevent scratches and dents from heavy furniture.
How to clean oiled engineered wood flooring
Always follow the specific cleaning guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your oiled flooring.
The key is to avoid using excessive water or harsh cleaning chemicals. These can damage the oiled finish.
Instead, use a pH-neutral wood floor cleaner recommended for oiled floors. You will often need to dilute the cleaner with water, which will help avoid causing damage to your floor, then mop in the direction of the wood grains.
Once done, ensure the floor is dry to prevent moisture from getting into the wood.
How to look after engineered wood flooring
Looking after engineered wood flooring is important, and that means making good use of proper treatments and premium timber materials. Browse our engineered wood flooring range to find the right one for you.
At Harlow Bros, we can help with any questions you have for your flooring projects, from initial supply sourcing to providing expert tips on installation. Get in touch with us today.