Having a varnished wood floor at home adds a touch of elegance and warmth to any room. However, maintaining its shine and lustre requires some effort and knowledge. This article guides you through the best practices for keeping your varnished wood floor and extending its lifespan.
Understanding the Importance of Ambient Conditions
Maintaining a Stable Temperature
The ideal temperature to preserve your floor’s condition is between 19 and 23 degrees Celsius year-round. A temperature too high or too low can cause the wood to warp.
Controlling Relative Humidity
Maintaining a relative humidity level between 35% and 50% is crucial. Excess moisture can cause the wood to swell, while too dry air can cause it to shrink, leading to cracks.
Daily Habits to Adopt
Regular Vacuuming or Sweeping
Using a vacuum or a microfiber broom helps reduce the accumulation of dust and abrasive particles that can scratch your floor.
Use a vacuum with a brush suitable for hard surfaces.
Use a flat mop soaked with a non-toxic cleaner specifically designed for varnished wood floors, such as those from the Bona brand.
Deep Cleaning of the Varnished Wood Floor
Steps for Optimal Cleaning
To deep clean your varnished wood floor:
- Dust the floor using a vacuum or dry microfiber broom.
- Use a slightly damp mop to wring it out well before use to avoid any water accumulation.
- Use machine-washable microfiber pads, but avoid fabric softeners or bleach to maintain effectiveness.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Harmful Habits to Avoid
Certain habits can severely damage your varnished wood floor:
- Letting dust and hard particles like sand or sugar accumulate.
- Place plant pots directly on the floor = excess water can cause irreversible damage.
- I just remembered that I must check the felt pads’ condition under the furniture’s legs.
- Wearing high-heeled shoes.
- Using an overly wet mop.
Protecting Your Floor from External Elements
Protection Against Moisture
Place doormats at entrances to reduce the amount of water and dirt brought into the house. In case of spills, clean immediately to prevent water from penetrating the wood.
Protection from Light
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and intense artificial lights. Use curtains or blinds to limit light impact.
Adapting to the Type of Floor Finish
Varnished Wood Floor
Varnishing makes the wood waterproof and wear-resistant. It requires regular but less frequent maintenance than other types of finishes.
Oiled Wood Floor
Oiled floors reveal fewer scratches. However, they require specific cleaning products and need to be re-oiled regularly.
Products and Actions to Avoid
Common Mistakes
Some products and behaviours should be avoided when maintaining your varnished wood floor:
- Never use wax, oil-based detergents, or standard household cleaners.
- Avoid rapidly increasing or decreasing the temperature of radiant heating by more than 2.8°C per day.
Tips for Repairing Small Scratches
Even with the best care, scratches may appear on your floor Use a touch-up crayon matching your varnish colour to help hide minor scratches. Then, a light coat of varnish is applied to even out the surface.
Preventing Damage Caused by Furniture
Use felt pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to avoid deep scratches caused by heavy furniture. Regularly change these pads to ensure they remain effective. Additionally, avoid dragging furniture across the floor; lift it to move it instead.
Importance of Regular Inspections
Regularly inspect your varnished wood floor to detect early signs of damage. Inspect high-traffic areas, such as entrances and hallways, to quickly identify and repair scratches or cracks. Preventive maintenance can extend the life of your floor and maintain its appearance.
Additional Finishing Products
To enhance the protection of your varnished wood floor, apply an additional finishing product every six months to a year. These products can help maintain the varnish’s shine and protect against daily wear and tear. Following these simple yet essential recommendations ensures that your varnished wood floor retains its shine and beauty for many years. Adopt these best practices today to fully enjoy your hardwood floor. 
