How to Wax your Hardwood Floors

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It is easy to wax your hardwood floors without killing yourself, however the first step is knowing what you are doing. If you plan on using an Orbiter machine make sure you know how to use one. Find out the proper ways to use one before attempting to turn it on. If you are using a machine to wax your hardwood floors make sure to start in the center of the room to get a feel for it.

Start with Cleaning

You may just decide to wax your hardwood floors yourself with no help, or invite the family to join in. Your best bet is to do it yourself though, otherwise everyone is going to complain. Take a clean cloth that you no longer want and apply some wax to it. Pick a spot in your house and start scrubbing, make sure to use all of your muscle. If you don't you aren't going to get the shine you so desperately want. Remember to go with the grain of the wood. Never go against it. Once everything is completely covered you may decide to go over it one more time or determine that it is finished.

Check the Floor

Before you begin to wax your hardwood floors make sure they can be waxed. You can do this by sprinkling a few drops of water over the surface of your floor. If the droplets stay above the surface it is called sound finished. Wood that allows water to seep into it is called unfinished. Finished wood allows you to wax the surface, but you should never wax an unfinished wood. However, if you must you can apply a paste wax to unfinished wood and then waxing it.

Removing Old Floor Wax

Some floors may need to be stripped if they have old wax on them or if you aren't sure what has been used on them. Be careful when doing this, many believe you can scrape the old wax off your hardwood floors. However, it is best to use a different method, scraping can leave scratch marks. Try using a hair dryer if it is only a small area. Always make sure to use the proper wax when you go to wax your hardwood floors.

Never pour liquid wax onto the surface of your hardwood floors. Always use a cloth, when applying liquid wax and make sure to rub it in very well. Follow any care instructions that comes with your wood when it comes time for you to wax your hardwood floors this will save you time and money. Not to mention it'll help make your floors sparkling clean.