How often should I clean engineered wood floors?

You can How sweep daily with microfibre brush or soft broom, Once a week, use a slightly damp microfibre mop and polish or oil twice a year.

Can I use a steam mop on engineered wood floors?

The NWFA (National Wood Flooring Association) advises against using steam cleaners on engineered wood floors, as heat and moisture can damage or warp the boards

How do I remove scratches from engineered wood flooring?

For oiled floors, small scratches can often be treated by applying suitable wood oil. For lacquered floors, clean the affected area with a dry cloth before applying a matching lacquer.

When should I call a professional for floor maintenance?

If your floor has deep stains, mould, water damage, or persistent odours that do not lift with regular cleaning, it’s best to contact a professional.

Tips to clean engineered wood floors

Engineered wood flooring is a superb investment and one of the most durable and stylish choices for any home. With proper care, your floor can remain beautiful for 35-40 years – or even longer. Whether your flooring is new or has started showing signs of wear, this guide will walk you through essential tips to maintain and clean engineered wood floors properly, ensuring they remain in excellent condition.

Best Engineered flooring Care Tips

Good maintenance begins with prevention, which is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your engineered wood flooring in top condition. While these floors are designed for durability, they can still suffer from scratches, moisture damage, and general wear over time. A few simple habits can go a long way in preserving their beauty and extending their lifespan.

Use felt pads or floor protectors on the feet of furniture to avoid scratches
Lift furniture instead of dragging it across the floor
Place textured doormats at all exterior doors to prevent dirt and grime from entering your home.
Don’t wear outdoor shoes, especially high heels or shoes with metal-trimmed soles.
If the floor gets wet, dry it immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
Protect your flooring from pet claws.
Engineered floors should not be cleaned with harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. If you are unsure, always test a cleaner on a spare board first.

The NWFA (National Wood Flooring Association) advises against using steam cleaners on engineered wood floors, as heat and moisture can damage or warp the boards.
Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a hardwood setting to remove dust and debris. Any abrasive scrubber, such as a hard plastic scrub brush or steel wool, can wear down the finish on your floors and scratch the hardwood below.

Best Techniques To Clean Engineered Wood Floors

Using the right cleaning techniques will help preserve the pristine condition of your Engineered Wood Flooring while preventing unnecessary damage.

Daily Maintenance

Use a microfibre brush or soft broom daily to help prevent the build-up of dirt. In high-traffic areas or spaces prone to crumbs and dirt, extra attention should be given. When using a vacuum, ensure the rotary brush is disengaged to avoid damaging the wood surface.

Weekly Cleaning

Once a week, use a dry or slightly damp microfibre mop to remove any stubborn marks or sticky residues that sweeping alone may not eliminate. The key is to avoid excess moisture, as engineered wood is more resistant to moisture than solid wood but is not entirely waterproof. When using a cleaning solution, choose a pH-neutral option to prevent damage to the protective finish. Always wring out the mop thoroughly before use to avoid soaking the wood.

For DIY cleaning, vinegar and water are widely used as an eco-friendly method. However, with modern floor finishes, this solution is often too acidic and may damage the surface. Instead, a pH-neutral cleaner designed for engineered wood is the best choice for long-term maintenance.

Polishing and Oiling in year

Polishing or oiling should be done twice a year. Using a manufacturer-recommended wax, oil, or polish helps maintain the floor’s authentic look while enhancing its natural shine.

Removing scratches

Over time, minor scratches may appear on engineered wood floors. For oiled floors, small scratches can often be treated by applying a suitable wood oil without the need for sanding. Ensuring the oil matches the floor’s finish is crucial to avoid a patchy appearance.

For lacquered floors, clean the affected area with a dry cloth before applying a matching lacquer. Variations in the sheen may cause slight inconsistencies in the finish.

Deeper scratches may require light sanding followed by refinishing with a compatible varnish or wax. However, remember that engineered wood can only be sanded and refinished a limited number of times(typically two or three)before the veneer becomes too thin.

When to Call a Professional

Before attempting a major repair, consult a professional to determine the best approach based on your floor’s type and finish. Certain issues require professional attention, such as deep stains, mould, or water damage. If the floor has persistent stains that do not lift with standard cleaning or if there is a lingering odour, a specialist may be needed. Our Professionals at flooring surgeons use specialised equipment for deep cleaning, buffing, or refinishing, which can restore the floor without causing further harm.

For any flooring queries, drop us an email at info@flooringsurgeons.co.uk – or Visit our showrooms located in Birmingham & Wolverhampton!