How to Fix Slippery Wood Stairs

Apply a commercial wood floor wax remover to the stairs to remove any wax buildup that could contribute to its slippery quality. The directions for wax removers will vary, depending on which brand you select. In general, apply with a clean cloth.

Apply mineral spirits if your wood stairs are not waxed but still slippery. Mineral spirits will remove residue from other cleaning products. Apply the product with fine steel wool. Scrub the stairs very gently to remove the residue and wipe each stair with a clean cloth as you work.

Place a level on each stair to determine if it tilts. If the stairs tilt toward the front, this increases the risk of a fall, particularly on slippery wood stairs. Place a ribbed vinyl mat on each step. The mats should be thicker on the edge of the step and thinner in the back to help prevent falls.

Place a miniature carpet on each tread. Small carpets intended for individual treads often have skid-resistant undersides. Some manufacturers offer carpets with a braided top for extra traction.

Apply an anti-slip wood floor coating to each stair, if you prefer not to install mats or carpets. These products are commonly available at your local hardware store.

Install a safety strip on the edge of each stair, if someone with impaired vision lives in the home. Safety strips are available in contrasting colors. Safety strips should not replace other methods of fixing slippery wood stairs but can help prevent falls by clearly defining the boundaries of each tread.