Keeping Oiled Floors Beautiful: Simple Care Routines
Simple routines that keep floors looking new for years
Oiled wooden floors have a warmth and depth that many people love, and the good news is that they are not difficult to look after. Because oil protects the wood from within, good care is about removing abrasive dirt and replenishing the oil when it wears thin.
Everyday cleaning
Grit is the biggest enemy of any wooden floor. Tiny particles act like sandpaper under shoes and chair legs, slowly dulling the finish. A quick sweep or vacuum with a soft floor head every few days keeps this under control.
When the floor needs washing, use a barely damp mop with a dedicated oiled-floor soap. These soaps clean gently and leave a little nourishment behind, helping the finish last longer. Steer clear of steam mops, general-purpose cleaners and harsh chemicals, which can strip the finish.
Remove grit often with a soft brush or vacuum.
Use a well wrung-out mop; standing water is bad for wood.
Choose a cleaner made specifically for oiled finishes.
Deal with spills straight away before they can soak in.
Avoid steam cleaners completely.
Small steps that prevent big problems
A good doormat inside and outside each entrance stops a surprising amount of grit. Felt pads under chairs, tables and sofas prevent scratches and dents, and they should be checked and replaced when they wear down. Rugs help in high-traffic spots; just avoid rubber-backed types that can trap moisture.
Sunlight will gradually change the colour of any natural timber. Moving rugs and furniture occasionally helps the floor age evenly. If you have dogs, regular claw trimming reduces surface scratching.
Maintenance oil
Even with good care, oil wears gradually where people walk most. You may notice the timber looks dry or dull, marks appear more easily, or water soaks in rather than sitting on top. At that stage a fresh coat of oil, rather than sanding, is usually all that is needed.
A maintenance treatment typically means intensive cleaning, a gentle buff and a new coat of compatible oil. It is far quicker than sanding and the floor is back in use within a short time. In a typical home this might be needed every two to four years, depending on traffic. Our re-oiling service covers everything from a single hallway to a whole house in Epping.
Caring for a newly oiled floor
A freshly oiled floor needs a little extra care while the finish fully hardens. The surface may feel dry quickly, but the oil keeps curing in the grain for around a week or two. During this time, avoid washing the floor with water, keep rugs off it and lift furniture into place rather than dragging it. If something is spilled, simply blot it with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
Once the oil has cured, you can move on to your normal routine. Oiled floors often look even better after a few months, as the finish settles into a gentle, even lustre.
Looking after your floor all year round
Timber is a natural material that reacts to changes in humidity. During the heating season, dry air can cause boards to contract and small gaps to appear. When the weather turns warm and humid, the boards expand once more. Keeping indoor humidity reasonably stable, avoiding radiators set to maximum and ventilating kitchens and bathrooms helps the floor stay settled. In winter, it is also worth cleaning more often, as wet shoes and road salt can bring extra grit and moisture indoors.
Beyond maintenance
Deep scratches, water stains that have turned black, or wear right through to bare wood may need more than a maintenance coat. In those cases, sanding back to fresh timber and re-finishing gives a clean start. We will always tell you honestly whether a refresh will do the job.
Want a price for a maintenance re-oil? See our guide prices, or send us a few photos for a fixed quote.