Bamboo flooring can be a beautiful and eco-friendly choice for your home. However, like all flooring, bamboo needs regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn how to clean bamboo floors properly without damaging them.
Supplies You’ll Need
Before you start cleaning your bamboo floors, make sure you have the proper supplies on hand. Here is what you’ll need:
- Broom or dust mop – For quick daily sweeping to remove loose dirt and debris. Look for ones with soft bristles.
- Microfiber mops – Great for damp mopping bamboo floors. Choose ones with removable and washable pads.
- pH-neutral cleaner – Specifically formulated for wood floors. Avoid soap-based cleaners.
- Mop bucket – Use two buckets for the “clean water, dirty water” method.
- Soft cloths – For damp wiping floor by hand if needed. Microfiber cloths work well.
- Stubborn spot cleaner – For sticky spots and spills. Make sure it’s safe for bamboo.
- Floor protectant – Used periodically to protect and restore shine. Select a no-wax bamboo floor cleaner.
Regular Maintenance Is Key
The most important thing you can do to keep your bamboo floors looking beautiful is consistent, regular care. Following a simple routine maintenance plan can prevent buildup of dirt, debris, and grime that can damage the floor over time. Here are general guidelines for maintaining bamboo flooring:
Daily Sweeping & Dusting
Sweep or vacuum your bamboo flooring daily using a soft bristle broom or dust mop. This quick dry dusting removes any loose dirt, dust, pet hair, and debris that can otherwise scratch the floors if ground in under foot traffic.
Be sure to reach into corners and under furniture and appliances. Lift any area rugs or doormats and sweep underneath them as well.
Weekly Damp Mopping
In addition to dry dusting, bamboo floors should receive a thorough damp mopping at least once a week. This helps remove any stuck-on dust and dirt that regular sweeping may miss.
Fill one mop bucket with clean, warm water and add a small amount of pH-neutral floor cleaner. Use a dampened microfiber mop head to mop the floor.
After each section is mopped, rinse the mop pad in the second bucket filled with clean water to prevent redepositing dirt. Change the water frequently to keep it clean.
Monthly Deep Cleaning
For a more thorough periodic cleaning, consider doing a deep mopping of your bamboo flooring about once a month. This helps remove any stubborn dirt or buildup.
In a bucket, make a solution using warm water and a bamboo floor deep cleaner or degreaser. Following label instructions for proper dilution. Using a microfiber pad mop, apply the solution and let it stand for 5-10 minutes. This allows the cleaner to penetrate and break up oils and residue.
Go over the floor again with the mop, then rinse the mop pad in clean water and buff dry. Don’t use excessive water. All moisture should be mopped up immediately.
Use Floor Protectants
Every few months, treat your bamboo floors with a specialty bamboo floor protector. These formulations contain oils and/or waxes that provide a protective barrier and keep floors looking renewed.
Choose a no-wax formula made specifically for bamboo wood floors. Apply as directed, lightly buffing to create an even, protective coat. This will help repel water, stains, and dirt.
How to Clean Bamboo Flooring: Dos and Don’ts
While regular maintenance keeps bamboo flooring looking it’s best, there are some specific do’s and don’ts to be aware of when cleaning and caring for these popular wood floors:
DO:
- Sweep, dust mop, or vacuum floors daily to remove abrasive grit and dirt.
- Use proper bamboo floor cleaners, not generic household cleaners. Avoid soap-based cleaners.
- Always damp mop floors, never wet mop. Wipe up spills immediately.
- Rinse mops and change water frequently when mopping.
- Apply floor protector periodically to shield from wear.
- Place mats at entrances and under furniture legs to minimize scratches.
- Lift furniture or appliances when moving, don’t slide them.
DON’T:
- Use traditional wax or oil soap products on bamboo floors.
- Saturate floors with water when cleaning. Allowing moisture to stand can damage bamboo.
- Use steel wool or scouring pads that can scratch the floor.
- Drag furniture or heavy objects across the floor surface. Lift them instead.
- Allow spills or pet accidents to sit – wipe them up promptly.
- Use detergents, abrasive cleaners, or “mop and shine” products.
- Walk on floors with spike heels or cleats that could puncture bamboo.
By following these dos and don’ts along with the regular maintenance steps outlined, you can keep your bamboo floors always looking like new.
Tips for Removing Specific Messes on Bamboo Floors
Despite your best efforts to care for them, bamboo floors will inevitably get an occasional stain or sticky, stubborn spill. Here are some tips for cleaning up common bamboo floor mishaps.
Grease and Oil Spills
Kitchen grease splatters or motor oil drips in the garage can leave unsightly marks on bamboo flooring. Use a soft cloth and small amount of liquid dish soap to gently blot the spot. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, then dry with towels. Avoid scrubbing aggressively.
For significant oil stains, sprinkle corn starch or baking soda over the spot to absorb excess oil, let stand 10-15 minutes, then vacuum up. Follow with dish soap and water. Repeat if needed.
Food and Drink Spills
Splattered sauces, spilled milk, or sugary drinks like juice or soda can leave a sticky film on bamboo floors. Blot up any excess liquid immediately with paper towels or soft rags.
Mix a solution of warm water and mild pH-neutral cleaner. Use a clean cloth to gently wipe the area, rinsing frequently. Avoid excessive scrubbing. Thoroughly dry the floor.
For dried/stubborn spots, sparingly spray bamboo floor spot cleaner. Let stand 2-3 minutes, then wipe clean with a cloth. Rinse the floor.
Scuffs and Rubber Heel Marks
Rubber soles from shoes can leave black scuff marks on light bamboo floors. These marks can be removed using a pencil eraser or gentle cleaner like baking soda.
For black rubber heel marks, lightly rub with a pencil eraser. For colored rubber marks, sprinkle baking soda on the spot and use a damp cloth to gently rub it. Rinse clean and dry.
Pet Stains and Accidents
Promptly blotting up the moisture is key for dealing with pet urine, feces, or vomit on bamboo floors. Soak up any liquid immediately with paper towels.
Use an enzyme pet stain remover to break down organic matter. Spray it on generously and let it soak in for 5-10 minutes. Blot with clean rags.
Once the area is dry, sprinkle on baking soda. Let stand 10 minutes before vacuuming up. This helps neutralize odors and further lift stains.
Ink, Paint, or Dye Spills
Liquid spills like stamp pad ink, paint, or hair dye can potentially stain bamboo permanently if not handled promptly.
Blot up any excess liquid right away with an absorbent cloth. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as this may spread the stain.
Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean white cloth. Gently rub the stained area to lift color. Take care not to saturate the floor.
Hard Water Deposits and Soap Buildup
Mineral deposits from hard water, along with a buildup of soap residue, can make bamboo floors look dull and dirty.
Make a solution of one part white vinegar mixed with 10 parts warm water. Dampen a clean mop and wring out well. Clean the floors with the vinegar solution.
Rinse the mop frequently as you clean. Vinegar’s acidity helps dissolve mineral deposits and soap scum buildup.
How to Clean Bamboo Flooring: Frequently Asked Questions
Cleaning and caring for bamboo floors properly involves following some specific guidelines. Here are answers to common questions homeowners have about keeping bamboo flooring looking its best:
How often should you mop bamboo floors?
For average dirt and foot traffic, mopping once a week is usually sufficient. Areas with heavier use or outdoor entryways may need to be mopped 2-3 times per week. Always sweep or vacuum first to remove loose debris.
What is the best way to mop bamboo flooring?
Use a damp mop only – never soak bamboo flooring with excess water. Fill one bucket with clean water and cleaner and one with just clean water for rinsing. Use minimal liquid and change water frequently.
What is the best cleaner for bamboo floors?
Look for natural, pH-neutral floor cleaners specifically formulated for use on bamboo wood floors. Avoid generic household cleaners, vinegar, soap-based products, or acidic cleaners.
How can you restore shine to dull bamboo floors?
Regular use of a bamboo floor protector or finish renewer can restore lost shine and add a protective barrier. Apply a thin, even coat using a microfiber mop. Avoid wax buildup.
Should you put felt pads on bamboo floor furniture legs?
Yes, attaching felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs is highly recommended to prevent scratches and dents. Lift furniture when moving, never slide across the floor.
How do you get old wax or oil soap off bamboo floors?
Use a cleaner made specifically to strip wax from wood floors. Follow label directions carefully. Mop on, let stand, then mop residual. Rinse thoroughly. Allow to fully dry before re-applying any protector.
Can you use a steam mop on bamboo flooring?
No, steam mops are not recommended. The high heat and moisture created by steam mops can damage bamboo floors by causing warping, cupping, or discoloration of the boards.
Is it okay to use tap water on bamboo floors?
Softened or distilled water is best for damp mopping. Hard tap water may leave mineral deposits over time. If you have no choice but to use tap water, be sure to rinse frequently.
How do you clean pet urine stains from bamboo flooring?
Blot up urine immediately then use an enzyme cleaner to break down the organic matter. Let it soak 5 minutes before blotting up. Rinse with clear water and allow to fully dry before applying fresh floor protector.
Conclusion
Bamboo can be an elegant yet durable choice to install in your home. Keeping it looking beautiful involves consistent cleaning and protection.
Use the right tools and products designed for bamboo floor care. Follow a regular routine of sweeping, damp mopping, and periodic deep cleaning. Take extra care when removing spills or stains.
Apply fresh coats of bamboo floor protector every few months. And remember to lift furniture instead of sliding when moving it across the floor!
By using these cleaning techniques and maintenance practices, your bamboo flooring will continue looking fantastic and provide many years of beauty. Be diligent about care, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning floors that enhance your home.