Once your new floor is installed, you’ll want to keep it looking like new. You can prevent scratches caused by dust, dirt and other particles with the use of mats or rugs, especially in high traffic areas like entrances. Buy a good quality broom and sweep your new floor at least once a week. Reduce dust - a major source of scratching - by using a dry microfiber mop in between sweeping.  A vacuum cleaner without a beater bar can be helpful in between planks and other hard to reach areas.

Take your shoes off. Don’t drag furniture. Protect your floors by putting felt on the bottom of furniture, especially on things that get moved more often, such as tables and chairs. Don’t forget to replace these felt stickers occasionally since they wear down and may have dirt trapped in them.

Cleaning techniques vary depending on the installation and finish of the floor. Hardwood floors with a urethane finish should never be waxed. They require cleaners that won’t leave a film or residue. Manufacturers of “Pre-finished” hardwood floors recommend their own specific products designed for their floor’s routine maintenance. Never use products intended for other flooring types like vinyl or tile cleaning products.

Do not use ammonia cleaners or oil soaps on a wood floor, as they will dull the finish and performance of your floor. Since wood naturally expands when it is wet, never steam clean, wet mop, or use excessive water to clean your floor. Large amounts of water can cause the wood to swell and may cause your floor to crack or splinter. Minimize water exposure to hardwood floors and clean up spills as soon as they happen.