Your new floor is an important part of the investment you’ve made in your newly remodeled space. Proper maintenance and care will help it give you a lifetime of comfort and beauty. Here are a few tips for cleaning the most common floor coverings.
Hardwood Floors
Moisture is your floor’s greatest enemy. Wipe spills immediately. If you have wood flooring in your kitchen, put an area rug in front of the sink. Dirt and dust can scratch your floor. Sweep, dust mop or vacuum regularly, but never vacuum with the beater bars operating. Use doormats at all exterior entrances to trap dirt and clean them regularly too. Make sure the heels of shoes, especially high heels, are in good repair. Unprotected heel tips or nails can damage a floor. Use felt glides on furniture and periodically check to see that they remain clean.
Carpet
Regular vacuuming is the most important cleaning activity for carpet, but deep cleaning is required to remove stubborn dirt and stains. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends that carpet be deep cleaned at least every 12 or 18 months. No matter what method you choose, follow the manufacturers’ directions on all cleaning products.
Your carpet’s fiber determines the appropriate cleaning method. Most carpet manufactured today is made with synthetic fibers like nylon, polyester or olefin, and may be cleaned with most cleaning methods. Natural fibers may require specialized care. Ask your carpet installer for advice on the best cleaning method for your floor.
Tile and Stone
For regular granite maintenance, use a solution of a mild non-abrasive cleaner or clear non-sudsing ammonia and water. Natural stones (travertine and limestone) can be cleaned using a neutral or slightly alkaline non-abrasive cleaner with a pH between seven and 10. For routine maintenance of ceramic tile use a non oil-based all purpose cleaner Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of cleaning solution. Dry with soft white cloth to prevent streaking.