Wood floor maintenance exceeds taking a mop and wax to cherry, walnut or ash hardwood flooring surfaces. From the first step in the home to a regular cleaning regimen, wood floor maintenance begins at the door.

Shoes attract tiny particles similar to sand. These diminutive elements scratch the hardwood floor’ surface and finish.

Stiletto heels and a cat or dog’s nails can leave dents, scratches and mars in hardwood flooring.

There are two options for preservation and to minimize wood floor maintenance. One suggestion entails the removal of shoes or simply placing a doormat to capture those tiny particles. Also, have the pets nails or paws clipped,

Wood floor maintenance does not require a lot of water. Since excessive amounts  cause hardwood flooring to expand and then crack, use moderate amounts of water for cleaning.

Wood floor maintenance is not restricted to cleaning and dusting. Sometimes stubborn marks render stain removal merely impossible. Because bleach has been found to weaken wood, many hardwood floor specialists do not recommend the process. Using bleach to remove a stain should be done with prudence. This Old House provided a comprehensive overview on using bleach for hardwood floors.

Since certain types of throw rugs are comprised of scratchy, wool backings.

According to the World Floor Covering Association, floors with urethane should not have wax applications. The same rule applies to floor cleaner that leave a filmy residue.