How To Clean Bamboo Floors?

Last Updated on October 15, 2023 by admin

Bamboo floors are a beautiful, cost-effective flooring option that adds a unique touch to your home. Bamboo can be cleaned just like any other type of hardwood flooring, but there are some precautions you should take while cleaning them.

Things Needed For Cleaning The Floor

• Mop
• Water
• Detergents

  

How To Clean Bamboo Floors?

Clear debris with a vacuum cleaner: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove waste from the bamboo floor. Make sure you move the vacuum in one direction and avoid going over the same area multiple times.

Wet your mop: Fill a bucket with warm water and add some mild, pH-neutral detergent or dish soap. Dip your mop into the bucket and squeeze out as much water as possible before mopping.

Prepare cleaning solution: Mix two tablespoons of white vinegar into two quarts (1/2 gallon) of warm water . This mixture is an excellent all-purpose cleaner that won’t damage the finish on your bamboo floor.

Apply cleaning solution: Use a microfiber mop or cloth to apply the cleaning solution to your bamboo floor. Start in one corner and work your way across the room. Make sure you use gentle strokes and avoid scrubbing too hard.

Remove stains or scuffs: If you have stubborn stains or scuffs, use a soft bristle brush and more cleaning solution to scrub them away gently. Be careful not to damage the finish on your floor.

Mop up the bamboo floor in sections: Take a clean cloth or mop and start in one corner, going back and forth across the section. Repeat this process in small areas until the entire floor has been mopped up. Be sure to rinse your mop often to prevent dirt from being spread around.

Air dry the floor: Lift the furniture and allow the bamboo floor to air dry. This will help protect the finish on your bamboo floor. If you need to speed up the drying process, use a fan set on low or dry towels.

Types Of Bamboo Flooring

Strand woven Bamboo Flooring:  Strand woven bamboo is the hardest type of bamboo flooring available. It’s made by compressing shredded pieces of bamboo into boards that are harder and more durable than traditional bamboo planks. It also has a distinct look, as each strand of the woven board is made of several different colored strands of bamboo mixed.

Horizontal Bamboo Flooring: Horizontal bamboo flooring is made from solid planks of bamboo that have been cut lengthwise to create a unique look. The grain patterns on each plank are very distinctive and will add a lot of character to any room. This type of bamboo flooring is slightly less durable than strand woven, but it still offers excellent durability and scratch resistance.

Vertical Bamboo Flooring:   Vertical bamboo flooring is made from bamboo strips cut into thin planks. The strips are then glued together and run in the same direction to create a unique textured look. This type of bamboo flooring is less durable than strand woven, but it still offers excellent scratch resistance and a beautiful visual appearance.

Tips For Maintenance And Cleaning Of Bamboo Floor

Keep your pet’s nails trimmed: Pet nails can cause scratches on bamboo floors, so keeping them trimmed is essential for the longevity of your floor.

Use area rugs: They help protect your floors from dirt and dust and add a cozy touch to any room. Place an area rug with a non-slip backing on areas that experience a lot of foot traffic or close doors to catch dirt and debris.

Wear soft shoes on the bamboo floor: Wear soft-soled shoes to avoid scratching your bamboo floor. Shoes with hard bottoms can cause scratches on the floors when walking across them.

Avoid placing things that cause scratches: Avoid placing items that may scratch your bamboo floors, such as furniture with sharp edges or pet toys. Place felt pads underneath heavy furniture and use protective covers on chairs and tables to prevent scratches.

Put furniture sliders under chairs, and other furniture: Furniture sliders help to protect your floors from scratches and dents caused by furniture movement.

Maintain 30-50 humidity in your home: Bamboo floors are slightly more prone to shrinking and warping when your home’s relative humidity is too low. To ensure that your floor looks its best, maintain a steady moisture level in your home between 30-50%.

Use curtains to block sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause your bamboo floors to fade over time, so protecting them from the sun is essential. Hang curtains or blinds on windows that get a lot of direct sunlight during the day.

Never steam-clean bamboo floor: Most floors can be steam-cleaned, but it’s important to note that bamboo flooring should not be steam cleaned. The extreme heat from the moisture can damage the bamboo and cause warping or discoloration.

Never immerse in water: Avoid using water to clean your bamboo floors, as it can cause warping. Instead, use dry cleaning methods or an appropriate cleaning product made specifically for bamboo floors.

Clean spills immediately: Spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent staining and discoloration of the bamboo floor. Use a soft cloth or mop with mild detergent to remove dirt or debris.

Polish and refinish: Over time, bamboo floors can become dull and scratched. Polishing and refinishing your floor regularly will help keep it looking its best. Be sure to use an appropriate polish or sealant designed explicitly for bamboo floors.

Pros And Cons Of Bamboo Flooring

Pros:

• Real Natural Bamboo
• Stronger than Hardwood Floors
• Middle Range Pricing
• Eco Friendly
• Easy to Install

Cons:

• Lower Water Resistance
• Susceptible to expansion and contraction with temperature variations
• Slight variation in aesthetic design
• May contain VOCs

FAQs

What cleaners can you use on bamboo floors?

It is best to use a cleaner specifically designed for bamboo floors. Many store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals that are too abrasive and can damage the finish on your bamboo floors. However, you can make an all-natural cleaning solution using warm water, white vinegar, and a few drops of mild detergent or dish soap.

How long do bamboo floors last?

The longevity of bamboo floors can vary depending on the type of floor and how well it is cared for. Generally, bamboo floors should last anywhere from 10 to 25 years if properly maintained. Regular cleaning and polishing will help your flooring look beautiful for many years.

Why is my bamboo flooring separating?

Bamboo flooring can separate for various reasons, including excessive moisture and temperature changes. If you notice any separation, it is important to address the issue quickly and contact an expert for advice on repairing the damage. It may be necessary to replace some boards or planks to ensure your bamboo floor looks as beautiful as possible.

Do I have to finish my bamboo floors after installation?

Yes, applying a protective finish on your bamboo flooring is important to protect it from dirt, dust, and moisture damage. This will also help keep the color of your floor looking vibrant for many years to come.

Is vinegar safe for bamboo floors?

Yes, white vinegar is safe to use on bamboo floors. However, it is important to dilute the vinegar with water before using it and not leave it on the floor for too long, as this can damage the finish. Vinegar should also not be used in place of a specific bamboo floor cleaner.

Can you wax bamboo floors?

Yes, you can apply wax to your bamboo floors, but it is unnecessary. Waxing can help add shine and protection to your floors, but make sure to use a product specifically designed for bamboo flooring not to damage the finish. Additionally, wax should only be applied after thoroughly cleaning and drying the floor.

Conclusion

Cleaning bamboo floors isn’t tricky, but it does require a bit of extra care and effort. With regular sweeping and mopping, your bamboo floors should last for years. If you notice any scratches or discoloration, refinishing the floor is recommended. Regular cleaning will help maintain the natural beauty of your bamboo floors and keep them looking as good as new for years to come. Proper maintenance ensures that your bamboo floor remains a beautiful addition to any home.