Bamboo Floor Care--Tips for Cleaning and Maintenance
Bamboo flooring has made quite a splash recently as an attractive, affordable, versatile and environment-friendly flooring option. But like wood, bamboo can be scratched, and it is prone to cracking in conditions where humidity levels swing dramatically. So it is important to take proper care of the bamboo flooring to ensure it lasts a long time and maintains its beauty with age.
Let's take a look at the tips below to help maintain and keep your new bamboo floor looking great.
1. Consider the Type of Bamboo Floor You Have
Before you start cleaning your bamboo floor, you should first know what exact kind of flooring you have. Research about its specific construction, strand, and finish type. This will help you determine special cleaning tools and methods to use based on the type you have.
There are typically three main types of bamboo flooring: horizontal solid bamboo, vertical solid bamboo and strand woven bamboo. Both horizontal and vertical solid bamboo are softer and can easily be dented so you have to use a gentle cleaning approach. Strand woven bamboo, on the other hand, is much durable and far more versatile than horizontal or vertical bamboo flooring
2. Cleaning Tips for Bamboo Floor
It’s not difficult to clean bamboo floors. In fact, it’s very similar to cleaning regular hardwoods.
Clean and clear the floor of all debris, dirt, and dust using a vacuum, broom, or microfiber mop. The broom should have soft bristles. Using a damp mop from time to time is a completely acceptable method of cleaning and caring for a bamboo floor. Because bamboo floors cannot handle large amounts of moisture, it is important to be sure the mop is not too wet.
2) Immediately Clean Up Spills
Whether you are giving your flooring a cleaning or your spouse spilled some cola, spills need to be cleaned up immediately. Use a sponge or microfiber towel to absorb as much of the spill as possible. For sticky messes, run over it again with a damp cloth.
3) Deep Clean with Appropriate Cleaner
Cleaning the bamboo floor requires the use of the right cleaners that can leave your floor rejuvenated and with restored shine. Prepare an approved cleaning solution per the instructions provided on the product. Dip a sponge or clean rag into the solution, then wring dry so that the material is only slightly damp. Apply the cleanser to all parts of the floor evenly. Do not allow it to pool or puddle. Wipe the floor dry with a dry towel to finish. Remember not to use any commercial cleaning products or harsh chemicals on a bamboo floor. They can cause damage to the floor.
3. Maintenance Tips For Bamboo Floor
Prevention is the best way to avoid the major job of having to deep clean bamboo floors. Once you’ve done all you could to clean bamboo flooring, preventative measures will keep your bamboo look beautiful for years to come!
1) Keep the Floor Clean
The best way to keep your bamboo floor clean is to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating in the first place. Particles of dirt and debris brought in from outside can cause significant damage to a floor over time. Help prevent this by placing doormats at the opening of all external doors, making sure to clean them frequently. Or make bamboo floors a barefoot or stocking feet zone.
2) Protect the surface from scratches
Attach floor protectors to the base of your furniture items, particularly those that are moved on a regular basis such as chairs. No scraping means no scratching. Avoid walking on bamboo flooring in heeled shoes to prevent unnecessary dents and scratches. If you are a family with pets, keep their claws trimmed regularly for the same reason.
3) Maintain consistent temperatures in the home.
Maintain a relative humidity of 30 to 50 percent in your home. Excessive humidity for a prolonged period can cause swelling, whereas too little humidity can lead bamboo to dry or crack.
Bamboo flooring is beautiful. And if you care for it correctly, it can last for a long time. Simply sweep dirt daily and mop with your favorite cleaner weekly, and your floors should stay pristine.