Keeping wooden floors spotless doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals or complicated products. While it may sound more like a salad dressing recipe, the simple combination of vinegar and vegetable oil can be highly effective for cleaning and maintaining hardwood floors. This method has been recommended by several experts, including appliance repair and maintenance company Frontdoor, flooring specialists Total Floor Sanding and Polishing, and LIVOS, the world’s first manufacturer of eco-friendly wood oil.
Combine equal parts white vinegar and vegetable oil in a spray bottle, shake well, and apply to your floors. The vinegar helps lift dirt and grime, while the vegetable oil conditions the wood, keeping it shiny and protected.
This method is particularly useful for hardwood finishes that are susceptible to water damage. Vegetable oil acts as a protective layer, reducing the risk of water-related damage while nourishing the wood.
Experts from LIVOS recommend mixing a fresh batch each time to prevent the oil from separating or going rancid.
To use, apply the solution with a soft cloth mop or a microfiber cloth once a week. The vinegar removes dirt, and the oil helps maintain the wood’s natural lustre.
However, make sure you don’t overapply and put too much vinegar in the mixture, as the acidity in vinegar can damage the floor if left on for too long.
Hardwood floors are sensitive to moisture. Water can easily seep into the wood, causing it to swell, warp, or even develop stains over time.
Repeated exposure can damage the finish and lead to costly repairs, making the combination of vegetable oil and vinegar a safer alternative for cleaning wooden floors.
With this easy, eco-friendly method, you can enjoy sparkling, well-conditioned wooden floors in just minutes, all without using water, baking soda or more expensive, harsh chemicals.
