Bamboo floors are a thing of beauty and will last many, many years with the proper cleaning and maintenance. New bamboo floor owners might not realize that the recommended cleaning for bamboo floors is different than what is recommended for other wood floors, Mr. Clean is no longer a welcome house guest.
Cleaning bamboo floors does not require harsh chemicals, in fact, bamboo doesn’t react well to any chemicals. All that is necessary to clean bamboo is a broom, soft-headed vacuum nozzle or dust mop. The soft touch is a necessity when cleaning bamboo natural floors.
A damp mop can be used if necessary to clean periodically. If there are spills they should be removed immediately and if necessary a damp mop used to remove any residue. The main point is that the mop be damp, not wet.
Bamboo natural floors should not be exposed to moisture or water for extended periods of time. If a damp mop is used for periodic cleaning, go back over the floor with a dry dust mop to make sure all moisture is gone. Never use any type of scouring agent to remove stains as the finish can be damaged in the process. If a cleaning product is necessary to remove stubborn stains, it must be a non-alkaline cleaning product and most definitely not a wax.
If a cleaning product is needed it is a good idea to check with the manufacturer to find out what they recommend. The preferred method is a dampened mop and nothing more. However, if the professionals do recommend a product, be sure to spread it evenly on the floor, don’t allow it to pool, and remove it from the floor as quickly as possible.
Floor waxes will destroy the finish on the bamboo floor so avoid them at all costs. A dust map will help to bring the floor to a lustrous shine.
Strategize
Rather than trying to find methods of cleaning the bamboo floor, plan a strategy to prevent as much dirt from getting on the floor as possible.
Door mats and rugs in high traffic areas are an ideal way to keep the outdoors outdoors. These can be used in hallways, in front of doors and in the middle of the floor in family rooms.
In addition to floor coverings, felt placed on the bottom of furniture will help to keep the floor from being scratched and marred when it is moved. There are precut furniture protectors or felt can simply be cut to fit the furniture’s legs.
Maintaining bamboo floors doesn’t require the muscle of Mr. Clean, it only takes a few minute of time to remove the dust on a daily basis to prevent buildup and the removal spills when they happen to prevent moisture from seeping into the floor.
