Entrance Mats

• Entrance mats not only provide a touch of decoration to the floor, but also act as the first line of defense in protecting it from the abrasiveness of dust and other outside particles. Select mats without rubber backing because this backing can deteriorate the floor finish and possibly stick to floors. Position mats at all entrances to the hardwood area; they should be long enough that shoes will lose most of their moisture and grit before walkers actually step on the floor. Mats should be shaken out regularly.
  
  

Dust Mops and Mopping

• A good quality dust mop is an investment in a floor's maintenance. The volume of traffic that comes in contact with the floor will determine the actual periods of time between dust mopping. A wood floor in a bedroom, for example, can go much longer between mopping than a floor that is in a high-traffic area of a school or office building. Whatever the area, those caring for floors should mop on a regular basis to insure that all grit is removed from the floor. Effective dust mops are usually cotton and have a swivel handle to allow the mop to clean in corners.
  
  

Cleaners and Cleaning

• One guideline for cleaning a hardwood floor is to avoid using oil-based soaps because these will build up on the floor and cause the finish to loose its luster. Instead, use a cleaner recommended by the floor's manufacturer. Many products made specifically for finished wood floors can also do an adequate job. Vinegar is one alternative, but it should be used sparingly. When using any cleaning product on hardwood, the mop should be damp-dry and not dripping.
  
  

Scratches

• Minor scratches on hardwood floors are sometimes repaired by carefully abrading the scratched area with a fine piece of steel wool. The steel wool should be rubbed over the wood in the direction of the grain. After the surface has been abraded, dust with a cloth that has been dampened with mineral spirits. Use a fine paintbrush with a small amount of the finish that was originally used on the floor to cover the scratch. Allow the floor to dry thoroughly before using.
  
  

Preventive Care

• Plastic or felt pads under furniture will help prevent scratches; also, avoid dragging furniture over the floor. Wipe up spills immediately, and do not let water penetrate through the joints between the boards. Protect the floor from exposure to sunlight. Prudent use of window coverings to prevent sunlight from discoloring exposed sections of floor will help keep a hardwood floor looking its best for many years.