After you install your brand new bamboo floors you want to make sure it stays beautiful, durable, and free of debris. So, what’s the best way to clean bamboo without streaking? Will steam work or is there another way?
To clean a bamboo floor start by sweeping the surface to remove loose dirt or debris. Then use a microfiber mop with an approved cleaner in small circular motions. Once finished mopping use a fresh microfiber towel and wipe down the floor.
The beauty and environmental friendliness of bamboo floors are hard to beat, but you have to be careful about using too much water when cleaning them. Since bamboo is so porous, excessive moisture damages them, which makes a steam mop unsuitable.
Can I Use Steam to Clean Bamboo?
Bamboo floors are a beautiful wood flooring material that’s known for their durability and strength. However, bamboo is not waterproof so you should never use a steam mop on your floor.
Although bamboo is water-resistant, (as opposed to waterproof), and can tolerate temperature changes, steam tends to trap moisture in the planks.
It penetrates the joints, nooks, and crannies. This can be disastrous for bamboo and makes it impossible to repair.
Eventually, your bamboo flooring will swell and warp with discoloration and distortion. Instead, use a microfiber spray floor mop, they are inexpensive, work well, and won’t damage your floor.
What Is the Safest Method for Cleaning Bamboo?
To clean your bamboo flooring effectively without creating damage or leaving streaks, you have to use a product specifically made for cleaning bamboo floors.
A spray mop with a removable microfiber pad is best along with a pH-neutral cleaning spray. Avoid using harsh chemicals on bamboo flooring. If you want to make your own cleaning solution, mix four parts of water with one part vinegar.
You can use a regular mop with water but you have to ring out the mop so that it’s only slightly damp. Excess water can cause the same damage as steam.
Step-by-Step Instructions
The steps listed below are the best way to clean your bamboo floor. However, check with your manufacturer’s recommendations beforehand to ensure you do exactly as they suggest. This will keep your warranty intact.
- With a vacuum or broom, clear away all dirt, dust and loose grime. You may have to do this a couple times if you have pets.
- With your approved cleaning product and microfiber mop, push in small circular motions with a light touch. Only apply more product and pressure when dirt is heavier.
- Use another clean microfiber towel to wipe down the flooring when finished so that no moisture seeps into the wood.
How Do I Get Rid of Scratches from Bamboo Flooring?
As with any flooring, ones comprising bamboo will suffer a scratch from time to time. Regardless of your best efforts, they happen.
But, there is a way to fix scratches depending on the severity. For light surface scratches, dab the area with some mineral oil and rub it with a walnut.
Alternatively, you could use a scratch repair product to get the same result. There are many out on the market and not all of them are good for bamboo flooring, so you’ll have to do a little research and hunting to ensure you get the right one.
For deeper scratches, gouging, or chipping, fill the dent with a putty filler or colored wax stick. Once again, you should refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
But, there are several products you can try that are safe and inexpensive for your bamboo flooring.
How Can I Keep Bamboo Free of Footprints?
For the average household, basic wiping down the floors should be done as needed. For heavy traffic areas, it’s best to clean your bamboo floors daily.
The best way to prevent footprints from riddling your beautiful bamboo floor is to first insist that anyone who walks on it take off their shoes. But, in the event a footprint does appear on your floor, you’ll need to remove it right away.
Now, if the footprint is an actual dent in the floor, there isn’t much you can do about it. But, if it’s a bit of dirt, you can do a quick clean-up easily.
Mix one part vinegar to three parts warm water and put it in a clean spray bottle. Spritz the mixture once or twice on the affected area and wipe it up with a clean microfiber towel.
Ensure there’s no water left on the surface.
How Can I Keep Bamboo Floors Looking Like New?
Depending on the durability and quality of the bamboo, you want to ensure it remains stain and dent-free for as long as possible. Follow these simple tips to keep your bamboo flooring looking like new:
- Pet’s nails must remain trimmed to prevent scratching
- Make the area a shoe-free zone; no stilettos, heeled boots or hard soles
- Put felt and covers under the legs of all furniture
- Clean spills immediately
- Maintain humidity between 30% and 50%
- For areas likely to come into contact with water, put down mats without rubber or latex undersides
Conclusion
Cleaning your bamboo floors to ensure they’re streak and damage-free is rather easy.
It’s just that you have to be aware of and meticulous about trapped moisture.
Any amount of water that gets stuck between the planks will eventually cause irreparable damage to the flooring.
Stick with the manufacturer’s recommendations and always wipe it down with a dry microfiber cloth when finished cleaning it.
This will keep your bamboo floors looking beautiful and pristine for years to come.
