How To Clean Antique Floorboards

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Beautiful Wooden Flooring

Knowing how to clean antique floorboards is essential to preserving their beauty and longevity. These aged wooden surfaces require special care to maintain their patina and structural integrity. Begin by sweeping or vacuuming your antique floorboards to remove loose dirt and debris. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to avoid scratching the wood. Next, prepare a gentle cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a small amount of pH-neutral wood cleaner. Dampen a soft microfiber cloth or mop with the solution, ensuring it is not overly wet, as excess moisture can damage antique wood. Carefully wipe down the floorboards, focusing on small sections at a time. Always follow the grain of the wood and avoid harsh scrubbing, which can erode the finish and expose the raw wood beneath.

Once you have cleaned the floorboards, it’s important to properly dry them to prevent warping and mould growth. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture, again following the wood grain. For optimal protection, consider applying a high-quality wood polish or wax designed for antique floors. This not only enhances their natural lustre but also adds a layer of protection against future wear and tear. Regular maintenance, such as placing doormats at entryways and using furniture pads, can further protect your antique floorboards from dirt and damage. By following these steps on how to clean antique floorboards, you can ensure that these timeless elements remain a cherished part of your home for many years to come.

 

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How To Clean Antique Flooring

  1. Sweep the floorboards with a soft bristle brush to remove any dirt, sand or grit that may be on the surface. If you choose to use a vacuum make sure the attachment won’t scratch the surface either.
  2. For furniture that sits directly on the floor, you should use floor protectors on the bottom of the furniture legs to prevent scratching or denting.
  3. Place doormats at every entrance of your home to limit the amount of dirt and grit that gets transmitted onto your antique flooring to minimise the chance of scratches.
  4. Spillages. When something is spilt directly onto your wooden floorboards make sure you wipe it up as soon as possible to prevent stains from developing. 
  5. When mopping your reclaimed antique flooring make sure you don’t use too much water as this can absorb into the wood and cause it to warp and split. A good practice when mopping is to have one damp mop and one dry mop to dry the area as you go to prevent absorption.
 
These practices should hopefully allow you to have beautifully clean antique flooring. If you are currently looking to purchase reclaimed antique floorboards make sure you have a look at our collection.