HOW TO CLEAN ENGINEERED HARDWOOD FLOORS
In terms of installation, versatility, durability, sustainability, and value, engineered hardwood floors have some distinct advantages over their solid wood counterparts.
The best of both hardwood and laminate, engineered wood flooring consists of several hardwood or plywood layers, which make it more resistant to humidity and moisture, unlike a strip of solid wood, which can bend or bow. Solid wood planks can suffer from expansion and contraction in changing seasons, leaving unsightly gaps and cracks, as well as “cupping” from moisture and shrinkage over a long period of time.
Engineered wood floor's ability to withstand humidity makes it a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, providing the high quality look and feel of solid hardwood without the worries of warping.
Dirt and debris act as abrasives and can scratch finishes, leaving the flooring susceptible to damage. Sweep the floor regularly, and vacuum clean the engineered wood floor carefully at least once a week. Do not use a vacuum with a beater bar, as the bristles could wear down the finish of the flooring.
When your floor requires a bit more attention than just regular maintenance, the best way to clean your engineered hardwood is with a damp mop and an appropriate floor cleaner. Avoid using cleaning products that include vinegar, soap-based cleaners or wax on engineered hardwood flooring. These could erode or damage the veneer surface on the upper layer of hardwood. Never clean with steel wool, melamine sponges or a steam cleaner, as these could also leave behind irreversible wear and tear.
While engineered flooring can withstand humidity better than hardwood, excess water can still seep through cracks and joins causing warping and damage to the underlayment. Do not clean with mops or towels that are completely drenched, and never leave a spill for too long as you risk damaging your floor.
Simple Green Multi-Surface Floor Care cleans all hard floor surfaces with a formula that won't leave behind dulling residue. The cleaner dries quickly, leaving behind a spot and streak-free finish that allows the natural beauty of the flooring to shine through. Powerful, plant-based extracts, essential oils and minerals are used in place of petroleum distillates, ammonia, and chlorine commonly found in other floor cleaners.
Directions:
- Clear debris. Clean and clear the floor of all debris, dirt and dust using a vacuum cleaner, soft bristle broom, dust mop or microfiber mop.
- Wet your mop. Lightly wet your mop pad or wipe with clean water.
- Apply Simple Green Multi-Surface Floor Care. Spray the cleaning solution as a light mist across your floor section by section.
- Mop up in sections. Follow the cleaner with a clean, lightly damp mop.
- Air dry. Allow the floor to completely dry before allowing foot traffic again.
TIP: Refinishing engineered hardwood will erase any dings and scratches. If the top wear layer is at least 3mm thick, you can sand it down and refinish it the same way you would solid hardwood. If it is 2mm or less, scuff sand it with a buffer before applying a new finish.
Note: Although sponge mops can be used in conjunction with this product, best results are achieved with a washable microfiber pad or a disposable mopping pad. On highly reflective or glossy floors, damp mop with plain water as a final rinse to restore greatest shine. There are no polishes or waxes in this product.
FAQs
Restrictions on Use: Do not use on non-rinsable surfaces. This product is not classified as hazardous under 2012 OSHA Hazard Communication Standards (29 CFR 1910.1200). Inhalation: Not expected to cause respiratory irritation. If adverse effect occurs, move to fresh air.
What can you use Simple Green for in the household? ›
Garage Floors Floor Wax Removal Utensils Vents Garbage Containers Wheels Car Exteriors, Interiors Carpet Cleaning* Car Wash Dashboards* Microwave Ovens Motorcycles Patio Furniture Painted Surfaces Polished Marble Pressure Sprayer Refrigerators Sports and Exercise Equipment Stainless Steel Tile Walls Finished Wood ...
What is the Simple Green lawsuit? ›
Consumers who purchased certain varieties of Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner or other Simple Green products are eligible to claim a share in a $4.35 million class action settlement resolving claims the products are not non-toxic as advertised. Class Members may claim up to $30 without proof of purchase.
Does Simple Green need to be rinsed? ›
Allow treated surfaces to air dry or wipe off with clean cloth. When using on food contact surfaces: counter tops, stovetops, highchairs, kitchen appliances, thoroughly rinse all treated surfaces with potable (tap) water. This product must not be used to clean eating utensils, glassware and dishes.
Does Simple Green need to be rinsed from floors? ›
Laminate, Vinyl, Linoleum & Rubber Floors
Sweep the floor first. Mix ½ cup Simple Green with 1 gallon of water (1 ½ cups per gallon for heavy cleaning) and spraying or mopping the solution onto the floor in sections. Scrub with a medium bristle brush. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry.
What are the hazards of Simple Green? ›
Specific hazards arising from the chemical: Formulation is non-flammable, non-combustible and will boil until evaporated. Fumes of decomposition products may be toxic and irritating. Special protective equipment and precautions for fire fighters: Keep containers cool with water spray.
What not to mix with Simple Green? ›
Bleach or ammonia - Can you mix with Simple Green? We do not recommended that you mix Simple Green with bleach or ammonia because mixing will detract from the cleaning ability of Simple Green and detract from the disinfecting ability of bleach.
Is it safe to use Simple Green in the kitchen? ›
Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner removes grease and grime from cabinet surfaces, while the biodegradable* formula makes it safer for use in the kitchen.
Will Simple Green clean a shower? ›
It can be used as a spray and a highly-effective foam to clean soap scum off glass shower doors, shower walls, sinks, toilets, and tiles. Instead of using a cloth or paper towels, use a squeegee to remove water and residue after each shower.
Does Simple Green leave a residue? ›
Cleans, disinfects, eliminates odors leaving surfaces residue-free and smelling clean and fresh.
DILUTION RATIO: The 1st number represents the amount of Simple Green product recommended. The 2nd number represents the amount of water (i.e. 1:3 = 1 quart Simple Green to 3 quarts water or 1 gallon Simple Green to 3 gallons water, etc.)
Can I use Simple Green to clean siding? ›
In a bucket or large container, mix 1.5 cups Simple Green Oxy Solve House and Siding Cleaner in a gallon of water. Hose down the siding. Use a soft-bristle brush to apply the cleaning mixture in sections, scrubbing firmly enough to clean without damaging the siding surface.
Can you use Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner on siding? ›
It uses peroxide to brighten and renew surfaces without bleach, while removing dirt and stains from mold, mildew, moss, algae, chalking and more. Use it for manual cleaning or in your pressure washer on wood siding as well as stucco, aluminum, brick and vinyl siding.
Is Simple Green a harsh cleaner? ›
SIMPLE GREEN® is safe for use on skin and will not cause irritation in the majority of users. Avoid contact with eyes, irritation may result. Wear splash goggles or full face-shield and have eye washing equipment available in areas where potential is high for eye contact.
