Nowadays, many houses have bamboo flooring because it looks elegant and natural. If you have bamboo floors, you know how difficult they can be to keep clean. Bamboo is an absorbent material, so spills and stains can easily seep in and become permanent. In addition, bamboo is also susceptible to scratches and scuffs.
How to Take Care of Your Bamboo Flooring
To keep your bamboo flooring looking beautiful, follow these simple deep cleaning tips:
Clean up any debris with a brush or vacuum.
Keep a soft-bristle or fine-fibre broom handy to keep your wood floors in pristine condition. Gritty dirt and dust can scrape the floor’s surface if it is not swept regularly, ideally once a day. While vacuuming bamboo flooring is safe, the vacuum must be fitted with a floor cleaning attachment or a hard floor setting to avoid damage. Standard vacuums with big wheels and revolving brushes that can produce scratches or dents should be avoided.
Use a microfiber mop or soft cloth to clean bamboo flooring
Clean bamboo floors with a dust mop or slightly damp cloth is the best way to remove dirt and grime without damaging the new bamboo flooring. Avoid using too much water, as this can cause warping and discolouration. If you must use bamboo floor cleaners, choose one designed specifically for a hardwood floor.
Avoid using cleaners that contain vinegar, ammonia, or alcohol, as these can dull the finish or damage vertical bamboo flooring.
Dry immediately after cleaning.
After cleaning your bamboo floor with a damp mop or cloth, dry it thoroughly with a clean towel. Allowing the floor to air dry is the best way to prevent water damage on clean bamboo floors.
Apply cleaner every few months.
Apply a bamboo floor cleaner every few months to keep your bamboo floor looking their best. These cleaners help replenish the finish and protect the floor from dirt and debris. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and always test the bamboo floor cleaner or any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire floor.
Polish your bamboo floor every 6 to 12 months.
To maintain the shine of your bamboo floor:
- Polish them every 6 to 12 months.
- Use a polish designed specifically for hardwood floors and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application of any cleaning solution.
- Always test the polish in a small area before applying it to the entire floor.
Avoid using furniture pads on clean bamboo flooring.
Furniture pads are not necessary on bamboo planks and can cause damage. The places can hold moisture against the floor, which can cause warping and discolouration. In addition, the constant friction of the furniture legs on the pads can scuff the bamboo floor finish.
Place mats at all entrances to your home.
To help protect your bamboo floor from dirt and debris, placemats at all entrances to your home. Choose mats made of natural fibre, such as coir or jute, and avoid those with a rubber backing, which can hold moisture against the bamboo floor. Shake or vacuum the mats regularly to remove any dirt or debris that has been tracked in.
Rugs are also a great way to add style to your home and protect your bamboo planks from wear and tear.
Take off your shoes before walking on wood floors.
Shoes can track in dirt and debris that can scratch or dull the shine bamboo floors naturally have. A good tip for maintaining bamboo floors is to create a no-shoes policy in your home and place a mat or rug at all entrances to encourage people to take their shoes off before walking on the floor.
Place felt pads on furniture legs.
Felt pads are an easy way to protect your bamboo floors from scratches and scuffs. Attach the pads to the bottoms of all furniture legs and chairs, and replace them regularly to ensure they stay firmly in place.
Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Harsh chemicals can damage the finish of bamboo floors and make them more susceptible to dirt and debris. When cleaning bamboo floors, avoid using cleaners that contain vinegar, ammonia, or alcohol. In addition, avoid using furniture polish, as this can also damage the finish. If you must use a cleanser, choose one specifically designed for hardwood floors when cleaning bamboo flooring.
Take care when moving furniture on bamboo floors.
When moving furniture on bamboo floors, take care to prevent scratches and scuffs. Place felt pads on the bottoms of furniture legs and chairs, and be sure to lift furniture rather than dragging it across the floor. In addition, avoid using rollers or casters on the table, as these can also damage the floor.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is durable, eco-friendly, and easy to maintain. However, there are a few things to consider before choosing bamboo floors for your home.
Benefits:
Bamboo floors are very durable and can last up to 25 years with proper care.
- Bamboo floors are eco-friendly since bamboo is a renewable resource.
- Bamboo floors are easy to maintain and only need to be swept or vacuumed regularly.
- Bamboo floors are resistant to scratches, staining, and fading.
Drawbacks:
- Bamboo floors can be damaged by water or excessive humidity.
- Bamboo floors can be scratched or dented by heavy furniture.
- Bamboo floors may fade in direct sunlight.
If you’re considering bamboo floors for your home, weigh the pros and cons to decide if they’re right.
The product you need to avoid:
- Bleach
- Ammonia
- Furniture polish
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Waxes
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Rubbing alcohol
Final Thoughts
Bamboo flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because they are durable, eco-friendly, and easy to maintain. However, there are a few things to consider before choosing bamboo floor for your home. Bamboo floor can be damaged by water or excessive humidity, so they may not be the best choice for rooms with a lot of traffic or are prone to spills.
Bamboo flooring is a beautiful and durable option for your home. Follow these tips on cleaning and maintaining bamboo floor to keep them looking their best. By taking proper care of your floors, you can enjoy them for years to come.
