Floors

The essential character of a property is revealed in its floors. Whether they are tile, stone, hardwood or laminate, your floors reflect the soul of your house and its fundamental design. A floor provides the depth and expanse to a room, and as such, it should be kept uncluttered, clean, and gleaming. Knowing how to clean all your floor surfaces is imperative for a well-kept house.

Granite and Stone
- Sweep up loose dirt every day a dust mop, broom, or vacuum.
- Clean the floor on weekly basis using a soft mop and water mixed with a small amount of neutral pH detergent. Don’t use soap because it may leave a trail.
- Wipe up spills immediately, as most stone is porous, so it stains easily.
- To remove oil or grease, use a commercial stain remover.
- Protect stone floors with a sealant once every two years.

Hardwood
- Sweep up loose dirt every day with a dust broom, mop, or vacuum.
- Vacuum thoroughly with a floor brush attachment every week.
- Clean with a specialized wood floor cleaner. Use sudsy water on sealed wood.
- Do not apply furniture sprays or oils to the floor; they will make it slippery.

Linoleum
A resilient floor covering linoleum stands up well to the wear suffered by a kitchen floor, making it a perfect choice for this room.
- Wash with soapy water and a sponge mop. Rinse with clear water and buff dry.
- Sweep up loose dirt once a day with a dust mop, broom, or vacuum.
- You can wax with paste or liquid wax.

Tiles
Unglazed tiled floors don’t show wear and tear like wood and marble, which (as long as a suitable treatment is applied) makes them good for the floors in the kitchen.
- Sweep up loose dirt every day with a dust mp, broom, or vacuum.
- Wash once a week with a mild cleanser and a soft mop.

Vinyl
- Sweep up loose dirt every day. Vacuum thoroughly once a week.
- Mop the floor at least once a week with a neutral pH soap and hot water.
- Do not use abrasive cleansers.
- Mopping vinyl regularly with a clean mop and mild detergent or floor cleaner will take care of most dirt and dust. If you want extra protection against germs, add a few drops of disinfectant to the water.
- To remove scuff marks, use a nylon pad, sponge, or soft nylon brush dipped in an ammonia solution or isopropyl alcohol. Rinse well.