The Best Way to Maintain Engineered Wood Floors

Quck answer

To best clean engineered wood floors, follow these steps:

1. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any loose dirt and debris.

2. Use a damp mop or cloth with a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for engineered wood floors.

3. Avoid using excessive water or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the floor.

4. Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining or warping.

5. Consider using floor mats or rugs in high-traffic areas to protect the floor from scratches.

6. Regularly dust and sweep the floor to prevent dirt from scratching the surface.

7. Avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floor to prevent dents or scratches.

8. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your engineered wood floors clean and looking their best.


Engineered wood floors can enhance the warmth and style of any room in your house. Hardwoods and pine woods can be challenging and expensive to maintain. On the other hand, engineered flooring is affordable and comes in various shades, patterns, and finishes.

Whether you prefer the weathered grey appearance of old planks or the glossy red finish of cherry wood, there are plenty of engineered wood options that provide the authentic look of real wood.

By cleaning your engineered hardwood floors regularly and using the appropriate materials and solutions, you can keep them in excellent condition for many years.

What is Engineered Wood?

Engineered wood is made from real wood. Thin layers of processed wood are horizontally glued together to stabilize the planks.

Due to the presence of real wood, engineered wood laminate can be more costly. However, it is one of the most durable types of faux wood flooring and has a tough acrylic top coat. Although highly durable, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty.

Maintenance Tips

Using a soft mop or duster on a daily basis will help maintain the floors. Keeping the floors free of daily dirt and debris can prevent the need for intensive cleaning. Neglecting regular cleaning can result in the accumulation of grime on the engineered wood floors over time.

A quick sweep of the exposed floors, not covered by rugs or furniture, can prevent debris and dust from getting trapped in the gaps between the boards. When debris and dust accumulate, they can cause scratches and dullness on the engineered hardwood floors.

Vacuuming the floors with a low setting once a week or month can also help keep them in good condition. If you have pets or children, you may need to vacuum more frequently to prevent the buildup of hair and dander.

Cleaning Products for Engineered Wood Floors

Occasionally mopping or deep cleaning the engineered wood floors is beneficial as it can remove allergens and scuff marks that have settled on the surface. Before you start cleaning, gather the necessary supplies, including a lightweight vacuum, soft-bristled broom, dustpan, damp hardwood mop, towel, and cleaner specifically designed for engineered wood floors.

Choose a commercial cleaner that is approved for use on engineered flooring. The manufacturer may also provide recommendations for suitable cleaners.

Cleaners to Avoid

Although engineered wood floors are durable, using the wrong type of cleaner can strip away their protective top layer. Avoid using vinegar and vinegar-based cleaners, hardwood floor cleaners, floor wax, and ammonia on engineered wood floors.

How to Properly Clean Engineered Wood Floors

When cleaning engineered hardwood floors, it is important to avoid leaving excessive moisture on the surface for too long. After using a wet mop, go over the cleaned areas with a dry towel to ensure that any pools or droplets of water are removed, as they can damage the boards.

If necessary, use approved cleaning products specifically designed for engineered wood floors, but only a few times per year. Regular daily and monthly cleaning should be sufficient to maintain their condition. For areas with heavy foot traffic, clean spots using a commercial cleaner, ensuring that all residue is thoroughly removed.

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