Hardwood floor cleaning products: Top 5 Best for 2024
Keep Your Hardwood Floors Gleaming: The Essentials for Cleaning, Waxing, and Maintenance
Hardwood floor cleaning products are essential to maintain the natural beauty and extend the life of your floors. If you’re looking for quick recommendations, here are our top picks:
- Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner: Residue-free and leaves your floors shining.
- Murphy Oil Soap: A natural cleaner that’s effective and gentle.
- Nature’s Miracle Enzymatic Cleaner: Perfect for pet accidents, safe on wood.
Maintaining hardwood floors might seem daunting, but it’s simpler than you think with the right products and know-how. From daily cleaning to occasional waxing, using the proper techniques will keep your floors looking pristine. Whether you’re dealing with spills, scuffs, or just everyday wear and tear, our guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
My name is Francisco Romero, and I have over 15 years of experience in hardwood flooring installation and maintenance. At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we understand the importance of using the right hardwood floor cleaning products to ensure your floors remain in top condition.

Hardwood floor cleaning products terms to learn:
– Hardwood floor care guide
– Best hardwood floor brands
– Hand-scraped hardwood floors
Best Hardwood Floor Cleaning Products
Keeping your hardwood floors in great shape starts with using the right hardwood floor cleaning products. Here are our top recommendations:
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner is a standout for several reasons. It’s specifically formulated for hardwood, ensuring it’s wood-safe and leaves no residue. During our tests, Bona effectively cleaned up dirt, soda, and even stubborn tomato paste stains with ease, leaving only a faint remnant that could be removed with a bit more product.
This cleaner is free from harsh chemicals like dyes, ammonia, and formaldehyde, making it a safe choice for homes with kids and pets. The 32 fl. oz. spray bottle comes with two spray levels – a mist and a direct spray – for versatile cleaning. Bona is also an EPA Safer Choice product, meaning it’s friendly for both people and the planet.
Key Features:
– Formula Type: Spray
– Bottle Size: 32 fl. oz.
– Scent: Scent-free
Murphy Oil Soap
Murphy Oil Soap is a trusted name in natural cleaning. Known for its natural cleaner formula, Murphy Oil Soap is gentle yet effective on hardwood floors. It’s derived from 98% natural ingredients, including water and coconut-based cleaning agents. This makes it a great option for those who prefer eco-friendly products.
In our tests, Murphy Oil Soap excelled at removing grime and dirt without leaving any residue. Its mild, pleasant scent is an added bonus. This cleaner is especially good at maintaining the wood’s natural luster, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a more natural cleaner.
Key Features:
– Formula Type: Liquid
– Bottle Size: 32 fl. oz.
– Scent: Light, natural scent
Enzymatic Cleaners
For homes with pets, Nature’s Miracle Hard Floor Cleaner is a lifesaver. This enzymatic cleaner is designed to tackle pet accidents, breaking down urine molecules to eliminate odors and stains. It’s safe for use on hardwood floors, ensuring that the finish is not damaged while effectively cleaning the mess.
Our tests showed that Nature’s Miracle performed exceptionally well on pet stains, leaving the wood clean and odor-free. This cleaner is not only effective but also safe for your furry friends, making it a must-have for pet owners.
Key Features:
– Formula Type: Liquid
– Bottle Size: 32 fl. oz.
– Scent: Light, fresh scent
By choosing the right hardwood floor cleaning products, you can maintain the beauty and longevity of your floors. Whether you prefer the powerful cleaning of Bona, the natural effectiveness of Murphy Oil Soap, or the pet-friendly enzymatic action of Nature’s Miracle, these products will help keep your hardwood floors looking their best.
DIY Hardwood Floor Cleaning Solutions
When it comes to keeping your hardwood floors clean, sometimes the best solutions are the simplest ones. DIY cleaning solutions can be just as effective as commercial products and are often more eco-friendly. Here are two tried-and-true options:
Vinegar and Water Solution
A vinegar and water solution is a classic homemade cleaner that’s both effective and affordable. Vinegar’s natural acidity helps to break down dirt and grime without damaging the wood.
How to Make It:
– Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water.
– Use a damp mop to clean the floor, making sure not to oversaturate it.
– Immediately dry the floor with a microfiber cloth to prevent water damage.
This solution is excellent for regular cleaning. However, it’s essential to dry the floor quickly to avoid any potential damage from excess moisture.
Castile Soap and Water Solution
Castile soap is another great option for a biodegradable and eco-friendly hardwood floor cleaner. Made from vegetable oils, Castile soap is gentle yet effective.
How to Make It:
– Mix a few drops of Castile soap with a gallon of warm water.
– Mop the floor with this solution, ensuring the mop is only slightly damp.
– Dry the floor immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
Castile soap not only cleans well but also leaves a pleasant, mild scent. It’s versatile and can be used for various cleaning tasks around the house.
Baking Soda for Spot Cleaning
For tough spots and stains, baking soda can be a lifesaver. Its mild abrasive properties help to lift stubborn dirt without scratching the wood.
How to Use It:
– Make a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water.
– Apply the paste to the stain and gently scrub with a soft cloth.
– Wipe away the residue with a damp cloth and dry the area immediately.
Baking soda is particularly useful for dealing with spills and small stains that need a bit more attention.
By using these DIY hardwood floor cleaning solutions, you can maintain the beauty and integrity of your floors in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way. Whether you choose the simplicity of vinegar and water or the gentle cleaning power of Castile soap, these homemade cleaners are excellent alternatives to commercial products.
Essential Tools for Cleaning Hardwood Floors
Keeping your hardwood floors clean and scratch-free requires the right tools. Here, we’ll cover the best mops and vacuums that make maintaining your floors a breeze.
Best Mops for Hardwood Floors
Choosing the right mop is crucial for hardwood floor maintenance. Here are some top picks:
Bona Premium Spray Mop
The Bona Premium Spray Mop is a favorite for its ease of use and effectiveness. It comes with an oversized mopping pad, allowing you to cover more area with each swipe. The mophead swivels in all directions, making it easy to clean corners and under furniture. The refillable cartridge is eco-friendly and can be used with Bona’s plant-based cleaning solutions.
Swiffer PowerMop
The Swiffer PowerMop is another excellent choice for hardwood floors. It features a battery-operated spray system that evenly distributes cleaning solution, making it easy to tackle tough stains. The mop pads are disposable, making cleanup quick and convenient.
Rubbermaid Reveal Spray Mop
If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, the Rubbermaid Reveal Spray Mop is a solid pick. It has a refillable bottle for your favorite cleaning solution and reusable microfiber pads that can be washed up to 100 times. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, ensuring you can clean every nook and cranny.
Best Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
Vacuuming is essential for removing dust and dirt that could scratch your floors. Here are some top vacuums designed for hardwood floors:
Miele Classic C1
The Miele Classic C1 is a canister vacuum known for its powerful suction and versatility. It comes with a parquet floorhead designed specifically for hardwood floors, ensuring gentle yet effective cleaning. The vacuum also features a HEPA filter, which is excellent for homes with allergies.
Eufy Robovac 11S Max
For those who love convenience, the Eufy Robovac 11S Max is a great option. This slim, robotic vacuum can steer under furniture and around obstacles with ease. It has a strong suction power to pick up dirt and dust but is gentle enough to avoid scratching your floors. Plus, it operates quietly, so it won’t disturb your daily routine.
Dust Removal and Scratch Prevention
Using the right tools can significantly reduce the risk of scratches on your hardwood floors. Here are some tips:
- Vacuum regularly to remove abrasive dust and dirt.
- Use microfiber mop pads to avoid scratching.
- Avoid using steam mops as excessive moisture can damage wood.
- Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to protect your floors.
By investing in the best mops and vacuums for hardwood floors, you can keep your floors looking pristine and extend their lifespan. Up next, let’s dig into the best waxing and polishing products to restore and protect your hardwood floors.
Waxing and Polishing Products for Hardwood Floors
Waxing and polishing your hardwood floors can restore their natural beauty and offer protection, especially in high-traffic areas. Here are two standout products designed to help you achieve pristine, well-maintained floors.
Hardwood Floor High Traffic Polish & Restorer
The Hardwood Floor High Traffic Polish & Restorer is an all-in-one solution that polishes, restores, and protects your hardwood floors. This product is perfect for areas with heavy foot traffic, ensuring your floors maintain their luster and durability.
- Polish: Adds a beautiful shine to your floors, enhancing their natural grain and color.
- Restore: Fills in minor scratches and scuffs, giving your floor a refreshed look.
- Protect: Creates a protective layer that guards against future damage and wear.

Wood Furniture & Floors Care Kit
For a comprehensive solution, the Wood Furniture & Floors Care Kit offers everything you need to keep both your wood furniture and floors in top condition. This bundle includes specialized products that polish, restore, and protect your wood surfaces.
- Bundle: Contains multiple products custom for different wood surfaces, ensuring every inch of your home looks pristine.
- Pristine: Achieve a spotless and well-maintained appearance for both furniture and floors.
- Wood Furniture: Extend the benefits of your cleaning routine to all wood surfaces in your home, not just the floors.
These products are designed to make your hardwood floors shine while providing essential protection against everyday wear and tear. Whether you need a high-traffic solution or a comprehensive care kit, these options ensure your floors and furniture remain in excellent condition.
Up next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about hardwood floor cleaning products.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hardwood Floor Cleaning Products
What is the best thing to use to clean hardwood floors?
The best way to clean hardwood floors is by using a commercial wood-cleaning product. These products are specially formulated to dissolve dirt and grime without damaging the wood or leaving a residue. Popular choices include the Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Murphy Oil Soap.
For a DIY approach, you can use a vinegar and water solution. Mix one part vinegar with ten parts warm water for a homemade cleaner that’s effective and safe for wood. Another option is Castile soap mixed with water. Castile soap is biodegradable and eco-friendly, making it a great choice for those looking to minimize their environmental impact.
Is Murphy’s oil soap good for wood floors?
Yes, Murphy Oil Soap is excellent for wood floors. It’s a natural cleaner that effectively removes dirt and grime without harming the wood. When used properly, it leaves no sticky residue and maintains the natural beauty of your floors. Always follow the directions on the bottle to ensure the best results.
Does Bona leave a film on wood floors?
No, Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner is designed to be residue-free. It’s a wood-safe cleaner that dissolves dirt and grime without leaving any film on the floor. This makes it a great option for maintaining the shine and finish of your hardwood floors. Plus, it’s environmentally friendly, so you can clean your floors without worrying about harmful chemicals.
Conclusion
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc, we pride ourselves on delivering expert flooring solutions to our clients in Revere, MA, and the surrounding areas. Since our establishment in 2006, we have built a reputation for competitive pricing, punctuality, and guaranteed workmanship.
Our team is committed to enhancing the beauty and value of your property with our precise hardwood flooring installation and maintenance services. Whether you need a new floor installed, existing floors refinished, or repairs done, we have the expertise and experience to get the job done right.
We understand that maintaining your hardwood floors is crucial to preserving their beauty and longevity. That’s why we recommend using the best hardwood floor cleaning products, like Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Murphy Oil Soap, to keep your floors looking their best.
For more information about our services or to request a free flooring installation estimate, visit our Hardwood Flooring Contractors page.
Thank you for choosing Romero Hardwood Floors Inc. We look forward to helping you achieve stunning, timeless hardwood floors that will improve your home or business for years to come.
