How to Care for Pine Flooring

Place entry mats in each doorway to minimize the amount of dirt and debris carried onto your pine floors. Even if your wood floor connects to a bathroom or kitchen, place a soft floor mat or entryway rug to reduce moisture, dampness or mud.

Avoid rubber-backed mats, which can leave marks on your floor. Instead, opt for rugs that have soft backs or that are labeled specifically for hardwood floor use.

Ask house guests and visitors to remove their shoes before they step on your floors. Shoes can scuff and scratch your pine floor, which can cause the finish to fade prematurely.

Place an area rug on your floor if your pine flooring is in a high-traffic room, such as a living room or dining area.

Sweep your pine floors on a regular basis to remove dirt and prevent dust build up. Use a soft-bristle broom to prevent scratches.

Use hardwood floor cleaner to wash and polish your pine flooring. Avoid chemical sprays or any product designed for linoleum or tile, as these can damage your floor. Pour a small amount of wood cleaner on a rag or washcloth and wash your floor. Rinsing is not necessary.

Clean up spills as quickly as possible. This prevents water from seeping into your hardwood floors and avoids getting stains in your floorboards.