Proper care of your floors, regardless of their type, is key to maintaining their quality and prolonging their lifespan.
Carpeting
- Weekly vacuuming keeps carpets fresh. This is especially important for heavier shear and shag patterns.
- Address stains immediately using manufacturer-approved cleaning products, and follow the instructions for spot removal.
- Consider professional cleaning annually for deep stain removals.
- Guard against direct sunlight to prevent premature aging.
- If you see any loose threads, trim them so they don’t unravel.
Note:
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions when in doubt.
Ceramic Tile Floors
- Before cleaning tile, sweep or vacuum the tiled areas to remove debris.
- Wipe tile with a damp cloth, and wet mop it occasionally. Use a non-oil-based household cleaner that is compatible with cement grouts.
- Clean the grout between tiles with a brush and a mild soap.
- Place down protective mats at entrances to tile floors from the outside.
- Use protective pads on your furniture legs to avoid scratches on the tile.
Note:
Avoid vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head; these will damage the surface of the tile. Stay clear of acid or ammonia-based cleaners. Always consult manufacturer guidelines.
* Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintaining your tile.
Vinyl Flooring
- Vinyl floors recover quickly from most indentations and are flexible under the impact of normal household traffic (but high heels can damage vinyl).
- Remove spills as soon as they happen.
- Dust or vacuum your floors (but don’t use vacuums with beater bars as they can damage the flooring).
- Mop using a mild cleaning solution, such as liquid dish detergent, weekly (don’t use “mop and shine” products, heavy detergents or bleach as they can damage the flooring).
- Never use a vacuum with a beater bar as it can damage the vinyl.
- Equip all furniture with furniture caps (or slides) to protect the vinyl.
- Don’t drag heavy furniture as it can scratch or tear the vinyl.
Note:
Use the manufacturer’s recommended products, and follow the instructions to maintain the flooring.
* Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintaining your tile.
Wood Flooring
- Weekly vacuuming/sweeping is essential. Use vacuums with special bare-floor attachments; beater bars can damage the wood.
- Use damp cloths for cleaning; avoid direct water.
- Place rugs in high traffic areas to protect your wood floors from dirt and sand, as they can scratch the wood finish.
- Never drag heavy furniture across the wood. Use pads under furniture legs, such as felt stick-on pads.
- Protect wood from direct sunlight with blinds or curtains to avoid discoloration.
- Trim animal nails, and avoid walking on wood floors with spike-heels.
- Avoid using alkaline substances like ammonia as they may cause dark spots on the finish.
- Don’t use wax-based products. See the manufacturer’s instructions for approved cleaners.
Note:
All wood flooring can expand and contract based on weather conditions. The durability of your wood flooring depends on the type of wood used. Use the manufacturer’s recommended products, and follow the instructions for care and maintenance. Refrain from using ammonia-based cleaners or wax products. Wood can react to climate changes; always use manufacturer-approved products for care.
