Home Garden

Oiling a Wood Floor

Many homeowners seek to restore the luster and shine of their wood floors, especially once everyday activity, dirt and debris have made the floor look less than brand-new. While there are many methods for restoring the shine to a wood floor, including basic cleaning and applying a wax finish, another option is to oil the floor. Wood oil is available in many home retail or hardware stores, and is generally simple to apply to flooring.

Things You'll Need

  • Broom or vacuum cleaner
  • Vinegar
  • Water
  • Nonabrasive floor cleaner
  • Mop
  • 200-grit sandpaper
  • Wood oil
  • Clean cloth(s)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the wood floor well, using either a standard broom or a vacuum designed to work on hard floors.

    • 2

      Mop the floor with a nonabrasive floor cleaner or vinegar and water to completely remove any remaining dirt. Wipe the floor dry with a soft towel or cloth.

    • 3

      Check the floor for any rough patches, and use 200-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough areas. Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth when you're finished to remove any dust or debris.

    • 4

      Pour the wood oil into a bowl or bucket, and use a clean, soft cloth to apply a thin, even layer of the oil to the floor. Work in circular motions, and overlap the circles as you move across the floor for even results. Do not over-saturate the wood with the oil.

    • 5

      Let the wood floor dry thoroughly before walking on or using it for any activity. Allow 24 hours to pass, and apply a second coat of oil if desired.