Rings, spots, and stains can happen.

This guide to removing stains answers common questions about cleaning and protecting your hardwood floors.

Whatever the reason, stains can be unsightly and distracting.

Loft living room

Credit: Laurie Black

Its appearance is an important clue in figuring out how to best address the stain.

Dark brown or black stains indicate a deeper stain that may require more work.

If not, try one of these methods for removing white water rings.

Kitchen with island and wooden floor

Credit: David Tsay

For tricky spots, scrub using a cleaner and a scrub pad made for urethane floors.

Remove Stubborn Stains

If neither of these methods works, consider these additional ideas.

Lastly, try dampening a cloth with denatured alcohol and ironing over the stain for just a few seconds.

casual dining room with chandelier

Credit: Anthony Masterson Photography, Inc.

Do a second round after several hours and let the area rest until the next day.

Alternatively, you canstrip, sand, and reseal the area.

you might also try soaking a cotton ball or rag with hydrogen peroxide and placing it over the stain.

Kitchen with gray brick and wooden cabinets

Credit: John Granen

Repeat this process until the stain is gone.

Dry and Buff

Let the spot dry, then buff it by hand.

Treat greasy stains on surface-finished floors using the same steps.

When to Call a Professional

When removing stains, always follow the general guidelines forcleaning wood floors.

Go easy on the moisture, and always dry thoroughly.

Only use products recommended for your pop in of flooring and finish.