Keep hardwood floors looking beautiful with these simple tips for protecting them with regular waxing.
Hardwood floors can add gorgeous texture and character to your home.
Hardwood stands up well to daily use and, if properly maintained, will last for decades.
Credit:BHG / Xiaojie Liu
Using wax for wood floors is a vital part of their upkeep.
Using polish or wax for wood floors helps restore shine and adds a glossy feel.
Be sure to use the correct key in of wax for your floor and finish.
Credit: Edmund Barr
You should also usenonskid rug padsunder all rugs and runners to prevent accidents.
However, you should never use paste wax on no-wax, vinyl, or urethane-finished floors.
Apply this throw in of wax by hand for a long-lasting shine.
Credit: Edmund Barr
(If you prefer soft wax, use the liquid-equivalent of paste wax.)
Buff to Shine
As the waxed surface dries, it will appear cloudy.
Buff to a shine with a clean towel, an electric polisher, or a terry cloth-covered sponge mop.
Credit: Kim Cornelison
Be sure to carefully follow the label’s instructions.
Although liquid wax is easier to apply than paste wax, the finish typically doesn’t last as long.
Do not use this product onno-wax floors, vinyl, or urethane-finished floors.
Apply Oil
Apply polish evenly and lightly.
As it dries, the solvent will evaporate, leaving the polish.
This is the only key in of polish suitable for urethane-finished surfaces.
Apply these long-lasting polishes in several thin coats rather than one heavy coat, which is challenging to dry.
You should also avoid splattering polish onto baseboards or walls because itstains paint and wallcoverings.
Prep Mop and Floor
To apply, dampen a clean mop head.
Pour the polish onto the mop and pour some of the polish directly on the floor.
Polish and Dry
Spread the polish evenly to avoid bubbles in the liquid.
Repeat and Buff
Apply second and third coats to high-traffic areas, buffing after each coat dries.
