Can You Use A Steam Mop On Wood Floors?

Steam mops are great for deep cleaning floors using less water and chemical cleaning products. You don’t have to wring out water like a regular mop, and the steam can quickly break down stubborn stains, grime and grease. The best part is that you don’t need to scrub caked-on grime hard using a high-quality steam cleaning mop. Though a steam mop can be used on various floor surfaces, there is always confusion about whether it is safe to use on hardwood floors. It is because wooden floors are vulnerable to water and moisture that can cause damage to the entire surface. So, you need to be very careful before using any cleaning gadget or abrasive products, such as ammonia, phosphates, flammable & combustible liquids,  bleach, etc on wood surfaces. If you have recently bought a fancy and fully-featured steam mop and want to try it on your wood floors, read this guide and clean wisely to maintain its finish and pristine look.

How a Steam Mop Works?

It is deep cleaning equipment that uses the power of steam to remove stains, grime and kill germs from different surfaces. The tool heats water to a high temperature and releases steam via a nozzle or microfiber pad. The microfiber pad collects loose debris and grime – leaving the surface sparkling clean. Steam mops can help you clean almost all sealed surfaces, such as laminate, tile, etc, without using harsh cleaning products. So, it is also an eco-friendly method to spruce up your home. If you are prepping a rented property in Queensland, hire professional bond cleaning Townsville experts who are well-versed with all the latest cleaning gadgets and tools, such as steam mops or a HEPA vacuum cleaner. They can help you secure your full bond money.

Is it Safe to Use Steam Mops on Wood Floors?

Of course, it may seem exciting to clean your wood floors with a steam mop, but you should avoid using it to prevent damage. Drastic changes in temperature and moisture can twist, plump or warp your unsealed hardwood floors- causing a serious issue. Since a steam mop uses hot vapour to clean the flooring, so the moisture will settle down in the cracks and create unwanted problems in the future. Here are five major reasons why you should not use a steam mop on your wooden floor:

• Excessive steam and moisture can seep into the surface, causing cupping, warping and cracking over time.
• Daily use of this cleaning tool can weaken the finish of your wooden floor and affect its durability.
• Steam can increase the existing cracks and gaps in the surface, which can also cause damage.
• Unsealed hardwood floors are extremely vulnerable to steam mop so be careful. You can use other alternatives to keep your surface clean and shiny.

For more clarity, let’s dig more and know how different types of hardwood  floors react when using a steam mop for stain removal:

Impact of Steam Mops on Various Hardwood Floors

1. Sealed Hardwood Floors – Use a Steam Mop With Caution

Believe it or not! Solid or sealed hardwood floors can withstand the heat and moisture from a steam mop. You can use it to remove dirt, dust, stains and germs and achieve a sparkling finish. However, it is good to read the manufacturer’s manuals and use a mop occasionally, such as when performing a thorough bond cleaning Townsville at the end of your tenancy. You can use a steam mop to remove tile stains in a matter of a few minutes. Note: Excessive use of steam mops or water can weaken the finish of your hardwood floors over time.

2. Unsealed Hardwood Floors: Don’t Use to Prevent Water Damage

There is no denying that unsealed hardwood floors are highly vulnerable to moisture and excess water. So, you should not use a steam mop on an unsealed floor as the tool can penetrate the steam into the wood and cause severe damage, such as cracks, warping and discolouration. A safe and effective alternative is a damp microfiber mop. You can sweep the floor and use a damp microfiber mop to clean your unsealed hardwood floors. You can use eco-friendly ways to clean your home and floors or use a mild detergent on a wood cleaner for unsealed surfaces to achieve streak-free results.

3. Engineered Hardwood Floors: Avoid Using a Steam Mop

Of course, engineered hardwood floors are durable, and they are bonded using adhesives. Using a steam-cleaning mop regularly can affect its quality and allow moisture to seep between the layers. This can weaken the bond and damage the floors permanently. So, it is good to avoid them on engineered hardwood floors.

4. Waxed Wood Floors Are Not Suitable for Steam Mops

According to bond cleaners Townsville, steam mops can easily break down the oil or wax of hardwood floors due to moisture and mould growth– leading to discolouration, dullness and uneven visual appearance. Be careful when cleaning your waxed wooden floors. You can use a damp cloth and dry the area to prevent moisture.

Wrapping Up

The use of a steam mop depends on the type of hardwood floors you have installed in your home. Since wood is prone to damage due to moisture, you should never use this cleaning tool on unsealed, engineered and wax or oil-based hardwood floors. You can use a steam mop on a sealed wood floor after reading the manufacturer’s guidelines and use it occasionally to prevent water damage.