Wooden floors can look dull and dirty in summer, but there is a really simple method to restore their shine without needing any expensive cleaning products
Wooden floors have become a sought-after feature in contemporary homes, largely because they’re far simpler to maintain than carpet. However, they can make an entire room appear tired and dull if they lose their lustre.
Many of us throw open our windows throughout summer to beat the heat, but this can actually damage our floors, as intense sunlight can break down the finish and leave it looking worn.
Summer also brings increased levels of dust and pollen into our homes, and while these fine particles may appear harmless, they can have a sandpaper-like effect that gradually wears down the wood. However, Elizabeth, a mum and founder of At Home On The Prairie, has revealed a remarkably straightforward hack to help restore wooden floors without splashing out on pricey cleaning products.
Why use olive oil?
A homemade solution using nothing but olive oil. Elizabeth said: “This solution will not only clean wood floors, but it also uses olive oil to naturally polish and shine them up at the same time! But unlike commercial wood polish, olive oil doesn’t leave a residue that builds up over time.”
While pouring olive oil onto a floor might conjure images of a slippery disaster, it is actually a tried-and-tested traditional remedy for bringing back the shine.
Olive oil works by lubricating the wood and naturally enriching the grain, helping floors look both richer and warmer.
Static electricity can also accumulate in dry conditions, with the charge on floors attracting additional debris — which is precisely why homes can become extraordinarily dusty during the summer months.
A small amount of olive oil can introduce extra moisture to a wooden floor, helping to eliminate any static charge that builds up on the surface, which in turn keeps it cleaner for longer.
It’s a straightforward way to cut down on dust so you won’t need to vacuum as frequently, and it can also help to fade minor scratches, making them far less visible so your floor looks its absolute best.
How to make a homemade floor cleaner
You will need:
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- Four teaspoons of white vinegar
- One teaspoon of castile soap
- 400ml og water
- One empty spray bottle
White vinegar is particularly effective for cleaning floors, as its acidity helps to break through dust, pollen, and greasy residue with minimal effort. It’s also known to evaporate rapidly, meaning it’s far less likely to leave streaks on the floor.
Castile soap is a natural product derived from vegetable oils, and is widely regarded as highly effective at tackling dirt and stains on floors.
Method:
To start, ensure you thoroughly vacuum or sweep the floor before applying any cleaning solution. Be sure to get underneath rugs, tables and into corners that are often missed.
One of the most common mistakes people make is skipping this step before mopping, as dust particles will drag across the surface, causing scratches or dulling the finish.
Next, pour all the ingredients into a spray bottle, secure the lid and give it a good shake. Empty spray bottles can be picked up in the gardening aisle of most supermarkets.
Next, lightly spritz the solution onto your floor in small sections at a time. You’re simply aiming to apply a gentle mist — avoid leaving it damp, as over-saturating wood will cause it to warp and deteriorate.
Use a dry mop or cloth to buff the floor in a circular motion. This should leave your wooden floor looking absolutely pristine, so you can get on with enjoying the summer without fretting over any dusty build-up.
