Two simple methods to remove stains from wooden floors – learn now

Compared to tile flooring, wood flooring gives a more natural and comfortable feel, with a softer surface that is less slippery. However, the cleaning of wood floors can be a challenge, as improper cleaning methods can affect their longevity. So, how should stains on wood floors be properly cleaned?

“Lindsey Ellefson,” the editorial specialist of “Lifehacker,” wrote that like any surface, wood floors can get dirty but must be cleaned carefully. Whether your floors are sealed or unsealed, it is important not to use harsh chemical cleaners to avoid damaging the wood.

Ellefson shared that she has tried a couple of natural cleaning solutions that effectively remove stains from wood floors, offering them as reference for people:

During her cleaning under the sofa at home, Ellefson discovered stains on the wood floor, possibly left by a previous project involving glue, newspapers, and paint.

In general, whether your floor is sealed or unsealed, when cleaning stains, it is advisable to gently wipe with a cleaning solution instead of soaking to prevent liquid from seeping into any cracks, causing damage underneath.

If unsure if your floor has a protective coating, you can drop a few drops of water on the surface. If they bead on top, the floor has a protective coating; if they are absorbed quickly, then the floor is unprotected.

Ellefson chose to clean the stains on the wood floor using vinegar. She mixed vinegar and warm water in a 1:1 ratio, applied it to the stains, and then wiped back and forth with a cloth.

The dilution is crucial, as the acidity of pure vinegar can be too strong and potentially damage the sealant. This cleaning process may take some time and have a strong odor, but the stains will gradually be removed.

After removing most of the stains, Ellefson further wiped with melamine sponges, and they basically disappeared.

Ellefson mentioned that certain stains seemed to penetrate deeply into the wood floor, so she didn’t want to leave them soaking in vinegar to prevent compromising the floor’s integrity.

For more stubborn stains, she filled a small bowl with half water, added baking soda, stirred to create a paste.

She then applied this paste to the stains, let it sit for about 20 minutes, wiped it off, and continued using melamine sponges, observing effective results.

She noted that she likes using baking soda in cleaning as it has abrasive properties but is not acidic.

She also advised that this method is not necessarily for cleaning the entire floor, as the baking soda paste is best used for stubborn stains that are difficult to remove with regular cleaning methods or for oily stains.

Regarding glue stains on wood floors, if regular cleaning methods fail, Ellefson suggested using a hairdryer. She once aimed the hairdryer at glue stains for about 45 seconds, and they magically peeled off.

She recommended trying the hairdryer for sticky debris stuck on wood floors during cleaning.

Furthermore, Ellefson reminded readers that regardless of the cleaning solution used on floors, it is essential to conduct a spot test in an inconspicuous area first, such as under a large piece of furniture. As mentioned earlier, it is important to gently wipe instead of soak, and avoid using acidic or harsh cleaners, such as acetone.