Seasonal Flooring Maintenance: Do's and Don'ts to Keep Your Floors Looking New

As the seasons change, so do the challenges that floors face. Keeping floors looking good takes a bit of planning, from snow and mud in the winter to humidity in the summer. Here’s a guide on what to do—and what to avoid—so your floors stay in top shape.

Do's and Don'ts in Springs and Summers

With warmer weather comes humidity, which can impact various types of flooring. Here are some tips for spring and summer:

Do: Use a dehumidifier in rooms with hardwood or laminate floors. Too much moisture in the air can make floors swell and even warp as time goes by. For DIY flooring installation projects, especially with wood, be mindful of the humidity level before starting.

Don’t: Don’t leave water or spills sitting on your floors. This applies to all floor types, but it’s especially important for wood floors, which are more prone to absorbing water. Quick wipe-downs keep floors safe from moisture damage.

Do: Place mats at entrances to minimize dirt, sand, or moisture brought inside. This simple habit goes a long way in flooring maintenance, particularly during heavy spring rains or summer activities. Area rugs or runners can also protect high-traffic areas.

Don’t: Use harsh cleaners or excessive water. Using a slightly damp mop works best for hard floors. Avoid products that leave behind residue, which can dull the finish on wood and laminate.

Fall Maintenance: Preparing for Cooler Weather

In the fall, prep your floors for the colder months ahead. This season brings falling leaves, rain, and cooler temperatures, which require extra attention to floor care.

Do: Sweep and vacuum regularly to remove any dirt or leaves tracked inside. Grit from outdoors can scratch hard surfaces if left unattended. A simple sweep or light vacuum daily keeps floors cleaner for longer.

Don’t: Ignore minor cracks or gaps. As temperatures start dropping, these can worsen, especially with hardwood floors. Sealing small gaps now can prevent larger issues in winter. 

Do: Use floor protectors under furniture legs to prevent scuffing. Seasonal rearrangements, like moving furniture away from vents, can help distribute heat evenly in winter months while protecting floors from direct temperature changes.

Protection against Snow and Salt in Winter

Winter can be particularly hard on floors, with salt, mud, and moisture making their way inside. Proper maintenance is key during these months to avoid damage.

Do: Use entryway mats—one outside and one inside—to capture snow and salt. This extra step reduces the chances of grit getting ground into your floors. Shake out or clean mats frequently so they stay effective.

Don’t: Let salt or melting snow stay on floors. Salt can leave marks, and melted snow can damage wood. If water gets on the floor, dry it as soon as possible. For quick cleanup, keep a soft, absorbent cloth handy.

Do: Consider using rugs in high-traffic areas. Winter footwear can carry a lot of moisture, and a rug by the door or hallway can be a helpful barrier.

Year-Round Tips

Do: Check your flooring manufacturer’s care instructions and stick with recommended products for floor cleaning. Different materials need different care, and using the right products extends the life of your floors. 

Don’t: Use excessive force when cleaning tough spots. Gentle products and a bit of patience are better than scrubbing hard, which can harm finishes, especially on wood.

Whether you’ve installed your floors with a DIY flooring installation or had them professionally done, keeping up with seasonal flooring maintenance is key to ensuring they stay in good condition. With these do’s and don’ts in mind, your floors will remain in great shape, regardless of the season.