Bamboo Floor Care and Maintenance

Posted: 01 JUL 2002

You invested your valuable time deciding which variation of bamboo flooring would best compliment your décor. Then you invested your hard-earned money purchasing your carefully-made choice and preparing for its installation. Now, the job is finished and you’re standing there admiring your (or perhaps a professional installer’s) beautiful work.

You can’t wait to move the furniture in and invite everyone you know over to share your excitement. But before you do, there are a few things you need to know to protect your investment and keep it looking as great as it does now.

Flooring manufacturers usually include care and maintenance recommendations with their products. However, if you didn’t find such information with your flooring, the next best thing to do is contact the manufacturer. After all, there is no one better qualified to tell you how to care for your bamboo floor than the people who designed it, tested it, and manufactured it. The manufacturer is always your number one resource for product information.

You’ll probably find a customer service phone number or a website listed on the installation instructions, or maybe printed on the carton. But if not, don’t panic. We have done some research and compiled a generic list of common sense recommendations – and here they are:

Carry, do not drag or push furniture across the floor
Put felt or rubber pads under each furniture leg
Lay mats or throw rugs with non-abrasive backing at each doorway
- Also, it would be a good idea to verify with the mat or rug manufacturer that the backing will not chemically react with your floor’s finish
Place an area rug in high-traffic areas
- Again, verify that the backing is non-abrasive and will not chemically react with the floor’s finish
Do not walk on the floor with spike high heels or athletic cleats
Keep any pets’ claws closely trimmed
Place a drip pan under potted plants, but allow airflow underneath it
Install curtains, blinds, or window tint to prevent UV faded areas
Immediately clean food and liquid spills with a slightly dampened cloth, then dry the floor with a soft cloth or towel
Regularly clean the floor with a dust mop, soft bristled broom, soft bristled vacuum cleaner, or a wood floor mop kit
- If possible, obtain the manufacturer’s mopping recommendations
Use only wood floor cleaning products specially formulated for urethane finishes
- If these products are not available, you can mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar with one quart of water as a substitute
- Use a thoroughly wrung soft cloth or sponge, work in small areas at a time, and dry each area with a soft cloth or towel before continuing
Do not use wax, oil soap, common household cleaners, or any abrasive cleaners
Restore shine, if required, with an electric buffer and soft, dry pad
- It is highly recommended to seek professional assistance with this type of equipment

Remember: always follow the recommendations of your flooring manufacturer first. Their advice along with some common sense will save you time consuming and costly repairs, and let you enjoy your beautiful new bamboo floor for many years to come.