First, the advantages of bamboo flooring
Bamboo is beautiful as a flooring option, has a rich wood grain color, and is made from a renewable resource. It is also one of the most durable types of flooring, able to withstand heavy foot traffic and overflow situations year after year. However, as with any type of flooring, it will eventually wear out if not cleaned regularly.
Second, the method of cleaning bamboo flooring
Variety of Cleaning Methods: Cleaning bamboo floors can be accomplished through different types of cleaning methods. Whether you use a mop, broom, rag, or brush, they all work together to clean the floors in your home or office. Although other types of bamboo floors may use different cleaning methods, the goal is to clean them.
Two cleaning methods:
Bamboo floor cleaning solution: this is the most popular method of cleaning bamboo floors. Be sure the floor cleaner is pH neutral to protect the surface. Some floor cleaners are concentrated and must be diluted before use, preferably with distilled water. Also, follow the instructions on the package closely.
Vinegar and water solution: Vinegar is a good choice for cleaning bamboo floors because of its antibacterial properties. Mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar with a quart of water to get a solution that will safely clean the surface of your bamboo floor. However, be careful to dilute the vinegar properly as full strength vinegar may damage the floor. It should be used in the same manner as a commercial floor cleaner. PRO TIP: Use this solution if you need to remove stains.
Remove dirt and debris:
Check for dirt and debris by brushing the surface of the floor with a fingernail or flathead screwdriver to remove dirt and grit. Microfiber brooms are a great alternative to brush brooms, with a flexible microfiber head that attracts dirt like a magnet and removes dirt and debris more effectively than a regular broom.
Vacuums can also be used, which is the most common and fastest way to remove dirt and grit from your floors. Be sure to use the right type of vacuum and adjust it to your environment. If you have pets, close off their access to the floor to prevent pet hair from making cleaning the floor difficult. Make sure the vacuum has a soft pull cord.
Clean with a cleaning solution:
Clean bamboo floors with a cloth moistened with a floor cleaner solution. Gently moisten a microfiber cloth with water and massage it over the affected area, repeating circular motions and gentle rubbing to remove the stain, avoiding the use of stiff brushes, scrubbers or abrasive equipment. If the stain is deep, multiple treatments may be required. PRO TIP: You can also soak a washcloth in a solution of water and dish soap and use it to clean floors instead of detergent.
Mopping:
A clean, gently dampened mop should be used after cleaning. Always mop with a water-based solution cleaner, dampen and wring out a mop designed for hardwoods until it is barely wet, then gently mop in a circular motion. After mopping, allow the floor to dry before proceeding to the next step, and never hold a wet mop over an undried floor again to avoid slipping. Also, wipe the area with a clean towel dipped in water to remove any cleaning solution. PRO TIP: Never soak the floor in water; it’s best to use a damp or almost dry mop.
Drying Bamboo Floors:
After cleaning the surface, dry clean the area with a soft towel. Air dry before reintroducing traffic to the bamboo floor. Keeping bamboo flooring dry is one of the most important ways to keep it in tip-top shape. Even though bamboo is a natural product that needs moisture to grow, bamboo flooring can be damaged quickly if not dried properly.
Third, ways to maintain the natural finish of bamboo flooring
Regular Vacuuming and Sweeping: The most important part of cleaning your bamboo floor is to sweep it regularly to prevent large particles from getting stuck in the gaps between boards. When using a vacuum cleaner, make sure it has a felt head, not a hard head or beater bar.
Wipe up spills as soon as possible: Wipe up spills with a barely dampened delicate cloth to prevent liquids from soaking in and penetrating the floor.
Place doormats: prevent outdoor debris from falling to the floor.
Use furniture pads: Place colorfast felt or other soft padding under all chairs and other furniture to prevent scratching surfaces.
Control the climate: too much moisture over a long period of time can cause the bamboo to swell, and insufficient moisture may cause the bamboo to dry out or break.
IV. Taboos when cleaning bamboo flooring
Avoid using vacuum cleaner with stirring stick, the bristles may damage the floor surface.
Don’t wear outside shoes to the bamboo floor, the soles of street shoes can accumulate small stones that can damage the floor, gravel, dirt or wetness on the soles of shoes may scratch and damage the floor, outdoor footwear should be removed.
Do not rinse the floor with too much water to prevent deterioration of bamboo flooring, use a wet mop.
Avoid using a steam mop, the floor may absorb the steam and warp, distort and swell as a result.