How To Properly Clean Hardwood Floors: Steam Cleaning And Other Options - By: Chris Harmen

While hardwood floors add character and value to a home, not caring properly for these types of surfaces can decrease the investment. Many homeowners choose hardwood exteriors for their durability; however, the long-lasting character will decrease if the wrong chemicals or treatments are used. Choosing the most economical and efficient method is crucial to extending the life of hardwood surfaces and finishes.

Steam Cleaning And Other Alternatives

Numerous methods claim to offer the best solution for disinfecting hardwood surfaces. Disposable pad systems, oil treatments, and steam cleaners rank at the top of the list. Even though all of these solutions will do a decent job, some have better outcomes than others. Several products on the market require disposable pads. These pads have to be thrown away and replaced with new ones after every use. Along with the expense of buying new cleaning pads regularly, the liquid squirted out by these types of machines can leave a film on the base. Oil soaps can shine hardwood, but like the previous way of cleansing a surface, a yellow film can appear over time.

Steam cleaning has become a viable alternative to scrubbers that leave residue. By only using water, this process removes dirt easily and effectively. In addition, the cleaned areas dry instantly, preventing homeowners from having to barricade off the area they are cleaning. Therefore, less falls occur and dirt isn't tracked back onto a wet area by family members and pets.

Instead of using a high-pressure boiler to heat the water, the best steam cleaners utilize a more contemporary, resourceful innovation called flash heating. Similar to a tank-free water heater, this technology enables the water to heat instantly. By adding regular tap water, a hardwood floor steam cleaner produces vapors in a matter of minutes. Most homes' water systems are sufficient for the cleaner. However, if the water seems unusually hard, distilled water may be needed.

Before Steam Cleaning

No matter what method is used, knowing what to do before scouring surfacess will make the process go smoothly. First, remove dust and grit from the base. Ignoring this step and washing over a debris-covered surface will cause scratches. Most machines operate only on water. However, if a cleansing solution is added, make sure it is neutral with a medium pH level. The area should be sealed before use. Avoid using a steamer on worn spots, as this will result in moisture soaking into the wood and forcing warping. Only use machines that are specifically designed for hardwood materials to prevent damage.

Steps To Follow When Using A Hardwood Floor Steam Cleaner

Simple to use, a hardwood floor steam cleaner disinfects and makes the cleaned area shine with little effort. The first step is to fill the water canister with hot tap water. Then, make sure the filter is clean. Put the canister back in its place and heat the water until it starts to mist. Begin at one corner of the room, pushing the machine forward and working toward the other side of the room - this releases the vapor. Pulling the steamer backward lets the cleaning pad eliminate dirt and grunge. Repeat these steps until the whole room has been cleaned.

Works On Other Hard Floor Surfaces

Steam cleaning is a smart choice for all hard floor surfaces, not just hardwood floors. Safe for high quality laminates, tile, and any other surface that has been sealed, this process also sanitizes grimy bases in any home. Bathrooms, kitchens, entryways and all rooms become clean and deodorized using a hardwood floor steam cleaner.

Clean More Than Just Floors

Along with being chemical free and a great improvement over the mop and bucket, the latest varieties of the hardwood floor steam cleaner can also function as a hand unit. This unique and innovative feature enables the machine to convert by simply removing one section. Many steamers come with attachments that make the most difficult jobs easy. With a garment attachment, an individual can remove wrinkles out of clothes, eliminate stains from mattresses, and even get rid of wallpaper. Those with a squeegee hand tool make it possible to clean windows and mirrors without leaving streaks or using harsh chemicals. Some other attachments include angled nylon brushes in various sizes. These can lift stains and mildew from tile or grout along with deodorizing countertops and sanitizing sinks.

A hardwood floor steam cleaner makes a good investment. Whether sanitizing floors, removing wrinkles from clothes, or getting rid of stains in tile grout, this type of machine is a useful addition into any home.

About the Author

Chris Harmen writes for GrueneSteam, a leading provider of steam cleaning solutions. She enjoys sharing tips on the best ways to use a hardwood floor steam cleaner.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Chris-Harmen/89665

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