Bamboo Flooring Cleaning Tips
Cleaning your bamboo floor should be a simple task. The best way to clean your bamboo floor is by following a routine and using the correct products. If you keep your bamboo floor clean and fresh it will help to protect it from daily wear and tear and unwanted damage. Same as for marble floor
Bamboo floors – specifics and types
There are three main types of bamboo floors – strand bamboo flooring, horizontal bamboo flooring, and vertical bamboo flooring. Like everything else, bamboo floors have both their advantages and disadvantages. To make things easier for you and give you some background, we have summarised the pros and cons of having bamboo flooring in your house:
Advantages
Durable – Bamboo floors are extremely durable. High-quality bamboo can resist normal wear and tear. Some bamboo types could even be harder than other hardwood materials. This makes them suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways.
Budget-friendly – Choosing bamboo floors for your home could very well save you some money. Bamboo floorings are usually more affordable than other hardwood flooring options. Regardless, you should always do in-depth research prior to any purchases.
Easy to maintain – Another advantage of bamboo floors is that they are normally easy to maintain. With proper and regular cleaning it should be no problem for them to last a long time and remain in top condition.
Eco-friendly – Finally, bamboo floors are a more sustainable alternative to other types of flooring. Bamboo is the number one renewable source in the world. It takes about five years to fully mature. In comparison, some trees used for wooden floorings may take up to twenty years to develop.
Disadvantages
Prone to scratches – Bamboo floors are prone to scratches. Actions such as moving furniture around or even walking with high heels could result in scratches. You should consider this especially if you have any pets. Early harvest could leave the bamboo softer and therefore further decrease its durability.
Susceptible to humidity – Bamboo is not resistant to humidity. If you live in an area with a high humidity level then it is possible for the flooring to warp or crack. The opposite is also valid – if the humidity level is too low, then the bamboo floors may dry up, which will cause the material to crack. You should aim at 30-50% humidity.
May contain VOCs – Bamboo floors may contain the so-called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are human-made and usually potentially harmful chemicals used in the processing of bamboo material.
How To Clean Bamboo Flooring
Clean Spills
If you note any spills, immediately sop them up with a sponge or dry microfiber cloth. Barely dampen a soft cloth or sponge with water—this is the best way to clean bamboo floors naturally. Apply it to the spill area to wipe up the remaining dirt. Dry the spill area with a soft towel.
Sweep or Vacuum
Use a soft-bristled broom, dust mop, or a vacuum that has a felt head (not a beater bar or hard head) to sweep up dirt and any particulates. Dispose of debris into a waste can.
Clean Stains or Dried Spills
After sweeping or vacuuming, note any areas where there are stains or dried spills. Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with water and rub the area with it to see if that is enough to remove it. If that doesn’t remove it, use an approved hardwood cleaning solution to dampen the cloth. Gently rub the area to remove the stain or dried-on material. Dampen a clean cloth with a little water and wipe the area to remove any cleaning solution. Dry the area with a soft towel.
Proceed With Damp Mopping
Damp mop with a hardwood-rated cleaner diluted per the instructions provided on the product. Dampen a hardwood-appropriate mop with the solution and wring it until it is just barely damp. Mop gently in a circular pattern. Wipe the floor dry with a clean, soft towel if there are any wet spots.
Do Some Heavy Cleaning
Prepare an approved hardwood cleaning solution per the instructions provided on the product. Dip a sponge or clean rag into the solution, then wring dry so that the material is only slightly damp. Apply the cleanser to all parts of the floor evenly. Do not allow it to pool or puddle. Wipe the floor dry with a dry towel to finish
Takeaways
Cleaning bamboo floors regularly improves their overall condition.
Always vacuum or sweep your bamboo floorings before mopping them.
Do not use too much water to avoid damage.
Avoid dragging furniture on bamboo floors – they are easily scratched.