How to Clean Particleboard Subflooring

Pet urine, spilled beverages and moisture from shoes are all common causes of otherwise inexplicable odors in the home. Moisture can seep through carpeting onto subflooring and remain there long after it has been removed from the carpet itself. So, if you are left scratching your head and wondering why that offensive odor never goes away, odds are you need to clean the subflooring beneath your carpet. Most subflooring is made from particleboard, which requires a straightforward cleaning process.

Utility knife (optional)
Vacuum or broom and dustpan
Bleach
Bucket
Stiff broom
Old towels
Box fans (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the carpet over the subflooring you wish to clean. You can do this on your own with a utility knife, however, you will damage the carpet. If you plan on keeping the same carpet, enlist the help of professionals for removal to avoid damage.
- 2
  Adjust the setting on the vacuum to hardwood flooring and vacuum the particleboard to get rid of any dirt and debris. If you do not have a vacuum with a hardwood setting, use a broom and dustpan.
- 3
  Combine one part bleach and three parts water in a bucket. Dip the bristles of a stiff broom into the solution and brush it over a 3-square-foot area of the subflooring. Dry immediately with an old towel to avoid moisture damage to the wood. Continue working in small areas until the entire area has been cleaned.
- 4
  Allow the particleboard to dry completely before replacing carpet. This usually takes just a few hours depending on the size of the floor, but you can speed up the process by using box fans to circulate air over the flooring.

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