How to clean hardwood floors

Published by the Bailey Flooring Supplies team. Last updated October 2, 2026.

The weekly routine

1. Remove grit first. Vacuum with a hard-floor setting or dust-mop. Grit scratches finish when a mop drags it around.
2. Mist, don’t soak. Spray the pad or the floor lightly. The floor should look damp for a few seconds, then dry.
3. Mop with the grain. Work in the direction the boards run, one small section at a time.
4. Wring and swap. When the pad turns grey, change it. A dirty pad just moves dirt.
5. Dry any wet spot. Wipe with a dry microfiber cloth.

Know your finish

Put a few drops of water on the floor. If they bead up, the surface is sealed (usually polyurethane) and tolerates light damp mopping. If the water soaks in or darkens the wood, the finish is oil, wax or worn out, so use a barely damp pad and dry as you go.

Cleaners

Use a pH-neutral cleaner labeled for wood floors, diluted as directed. Many floor makers also accept water on a nearly dry microfiber pad for routine cleaning. When in doubt, follow the care instructions from your floor’s manufacturer.

What to avoid

• Steam mops, unless your manufacturer allows them.
• Soaked string or sponge mops.
• Vinegar mixes, ammonia and bleach.
• Oil soaps and wax-based sprays that leave a film.
• Abrasive pads and scrubbing powders.

Spills and stains

Blot liquids at once and dry the spot. For sticky residue, dampen a cloth with your wood cleaner and wipe, then dry. Dark stains or cupped boards usually mean moisture has already reached the wood: ask a flooring professional.