For many, Fabuloso is the go-to multi-purpose cleaner. Leaving behind a fresh fragrance, this cleaner can be used on hard surfaces. Can it be used on wooden floors? How do you use it to clean wooden floors and surfaces? How much Fabuloso should you use?
Can You Use Fabuloso on Wooden Floors?
Regular Fabuloso and Fabuloso Complete are both designed to clean wooden floors, though they have to be sealed wooden floors. Wooden floors can be solid or engineered wooden floors. Hardwood is more popular than softwood for flooring as hardwood is more resistant to dents and scratches.
Untreated wood is porous. However, certain softwoods are more non-porous than other wood. As long as your floor is sealed properly, it is safe to clean using Fabuloso.
How To Use Fabuloso on Wood Floors?
Firstly, you must check regularly that your wooden floor is properly sealed. Pour a couple of drops on the floor and observe them. If they soak in, then the sealant is worn out and the floor needs to be resealed. If the drops bead up on the surface, the seal is intact. (Source)
Follow the steps below to clean wooden floors with Fabuloso.
STEP 1- Gather all your cleaning materials:
Fabuloso
Mop
Bucket of water (1 gallon)
Broom
Dustpan
STEP 2- Pick up toys or any other large items off the floor and temporarily move them to a different location.
STEP 3- Gently sweep the entire floor to remove dust, dirt, and other rubbish from the floor.
STEP 4- In your bucket of water, pour in ¼ cup of Fabuloso and swirl it around to mix it well. The water should be room temperature and not warm.
STEP 5- Dip the mop and wring it out completely.
STEP 6- Start mopping the floor. Avoid leaving excess water on the floor as that can cause damage. Move any furniture around to be able to clean the entire area.
STEP 7- Mop the entire floor and change the water if it is too dirty before proceeding to the next room.
STEP 8- Open the windows and let the area air dry.
Alternative cleaning method:
1- Take a spray bottle, pour in 1/8 cup of Fabuloso, and add water.
2- Use this solution and spray the floor in one small area of the floor and mop it up.
3- Repeat this by spraying small areas and mopping them up.
4- This eliminates the need for a bucket and the possibility of spillage of water.
Mopping does not need to be done daily. Even with high traffic, children, and pets, mopping twice a week is good enough. Any spills should be wiped immediately. You can use a special vacuum designed for wooden floors to clean the floor alternatively with the mop.
Does Fabuloso Need to Be Rinsed Off from Wood Floors?
After you have mopped the floor using the water and Fabuloso combination, there is no need to rinse the floor again with water. Fabuloso does not leave behind a residue or streaks that need to be rinsed off.
Furthermore, Fabuloso is a pH-neutral cleaner, which means it is safer to use than other cleaners that have either high acid or alkali substances present in them.
However, to prevent a build-up of residue over time, you can have a final rinse with just water after mopping the floor. To do this, you can have another mop and a clean bucket of water.
After mopping the first time with Fabuloso, mop the area again with a clean mop and water to remove any soapy residue. Make sure to wring out the mop to avoid leaving excess water behind. Let the area air dry.
You can also rinse off the floor if you like the scent of Fabuloso but find it too overwhelming. Another reason you may want to rinse the floor is if you have young children who are still crawling, and you want to avoid having such substances on the floor.
What Shouldn’t You Put on Your Hardwood Floor?
Hardwood floors are attractive and add warmth to the home. However, to maintain them, there are certain common things that you should avoid using and putting on a hardwood floor. These are:
1- Abrasive Cleaners and Cleaning Products
Avoid abrasive scouring pads, bleach, and other harsh cleaning products that will scratch the floor and discolor the wood. (Source)
2- Steam Mops
Never use steam mops to clean the floor. A steam mop will wear out the protective seal of the floor. Consequently, the water will warp and damage the wood. (Source)
3- High Heels
These will leave dents on your wooden floor. It is always better to wear them or remove them at the entry. (Source)
4- Long Pet Nails
If you have pets, trim the nails as long nails will cause scratch marks and ruin the finishing of the floor.
5- Hot Items
Avoid putting hot items such as curling irons, candles, hot plates, or heaters on wooden floors. It is easy to forget and use these items but leaving them on the floor will cause scorch marks.
To maintain your wooden floor, do the following:
1- Reseal or Refinish
Wooden floors need to be resealed every 5 or so years, depending on the footfall. Not maintaining your floor will lead to further damage and eventually costly replacement.
2- Use Furniture Pads
These will prevent the furniture from scratching and denting your floor.
3- Wipe up Spills
Excess water and spills from beverages should be wiped immediately to avoid discoloration. Leaving water on the floor can cause it to slowly seep into the wood, especially if the seal is worn out.
4- Use a Doormat
This will prevent grit and grime from coming into the house, thus protecting your floor from scratches.
By following the tips above, you can keep your floor safe and well-maintained.
Conclusion!
Fabuloso is great for wooden floors, provided they are sealed. Get to know the type of wooden flooring you have, so you can clean it accordingly. Remember to reseal your floor every few years to avoid damaging the underlying wood.
