IS IT A GOOD IDEA TO STEAM CLEAN MY HARDWOOD FLOORS?

19 October 2012
IS IT A GOOD IDEA TO STEAM CLEAN MY HARDWOOD FLOORS?

Homeowners are always looking for the best and above all, the easiest ways to clean their homes. Steam cleaning is becoming a very popular option for eradicating dirt, dust and bacteria from tiled surfaces from kitchen floors, prompting some people to ask whether it can also be used to clean hardwood floors?

Before you go near your hardwood floor with a steam cleaner system, there are a few important things you need to think about.

Hardwood floors hate moisture and humidity

Excessive exposure to moisture and heat can cause hardwood floors to warp and swell. Unfortunately, moisture and humidity are two of the main things that steam cleaner mops tend to generate.

Is your floor properly sealed, varnished and finished?

The seal or protective finish on your hardwood flooring is what protects it from damage, including damage from heat and moisture. If there are any gaps in this seal, such as in older hardwood floors or in high traffic areas where the finish has been worn away, the moisture from the steam cleaner can penetrate the wood and potentially damage it.

So, what’s the verdict? Should I steam clean my wood floors?

It is not advisable to use a steam cleaner on your hardwood floors, but you can check with your floor manufacturer if you like. A better cleaning option is to occasionally sweep or vacuum your floors and use a dust mop, tackling stains, spills and spots the moment they occur.