Without a doubt purchasing a new floor is a big decision, and in many cases a substantial financial commitment, so to get the most out of your flooring investment it’s very important to do your research ahead of time to make sure you’re choosing the best type of floor to meet your personal or business needs.
Knowing how to properly care for the flooring type you choose is the best way to ensure your floor stands the test of time and looks great for many years to come.
Here is a brief guide on how to clean four of O’Brien Timber Floors’ most popular flooring types.
TIMBER FLOORING
Wood flooring is typically more expensive than other types, which is why you need to take special care of your chosen timber if it is to maintain its aesthetic appeal for years to come. Incorrect maintenance, using the wrong products and harsh cleaning procedures of wood floors can result in damage and costly repairs.
Be sure to clean your O’Brien Timber Floors’ engineered timber and hardwood flooring products properly to keep them looking beautiful! First and foremost, vacuum your floor as often as possible. Removing dirt and grit 
reduces the amount of scratches. Scratches can also be minimized by using good quality mats in your entrances and hallways.
Clean up spillages – Clean all wood floors with a damp (not overly wet) mop, making sure that no excess moisture is left on the surface. The most important thing to remember when dealing with timber flooring is to act quickly regarding liquids, as they are likely to stain if left for any period of time.
Depending on the finish of your floor, the amount of maintenance will vary. Floors with an oiled finish will need to be oiled every year using your manufacturer’s recommended products. Do not use any washing up liquid when cleaning, as this can leave a layer of residue. Floors that have a lacquered finish do not require as much maintenance, and regular vacuuming and mopping is typically all that is required to keep them looking fabulous.
LAMINATE FLOORING
In general, laminate floors will save you time when it comes to maintenance. No oiling is required, and spills can easily be cleaned up with a mop.
Remember to use a damp (not soaking wet) mop to ensure you’re not damaging the laminate boards with excess water. To clean stains on your laminate floors, it’s best to check with your manufacturer’s recommendations for advice.
You can purchase laminate cleaners and items like repair wax, but you should always check with your manufacturer’s instructions first. Similar to wood, laminate flooring can scratch in some circumstances. Minimize scratches on your laminate floors by having sufficient entrance mats to help trap dirt, small stones and grit.
VINYL FLOORING
Vinyl is the easiest type of flooring to clean, which is why it’s so popular, and a favourite in family homes. Thanks to modern technological advances, luxury vinyl planks are extremely durable and will definitely be a great option for any room in your home. Vinyl products are great for heavy use, which make them the perfect choice for busy families and businesses.
Another bonus with vinyl flooring is that it’s extremely easy to clean. Again, mopping is your best option to clean up spillages, but excessive water will not damage your floors!!. You can also use recommended floor cleaner to help remove tough stains.
BAMBOO FLOORING
Bamboo flooring is similar in maintenance and durability to wood flooring and laminate. Clean regularly with a vacuum, dust mop or even a soft broom to keep dirt from accumulating.
When cleaning, be sure to use a moistened cloth and clean up any spills as soon as possible. Like laminate and wood flooring products, try to avoid liquids and spills standing on your floor for extended periods of time. Also, never use a wet mop or any oil based detergents or soap to clean bamboo floors, this includes any other liquid based cleaning agents.
Letting any liquid rest on the surface of your floors can cause the bamboo to absorb moisture and expand, and will void your warranty.
Never use a steam mop on your bamboo floor, and avoid using any oil based, wax, or polish for cleaning.
If you are ever unsure, please check the manufacturer’s maintenance and care recommendations, as these will vary with each product and brand. Also feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding your new floor, as we are always happy to help.
