How to Get Scuff Marks Off of Hardwood Floors
From LoveToKnow HomeImprovement
Learning how to get scuff marks off of hardwood floors is relatively easy, which is a good thing. Because floors are always underfoot, some wear and tear is inevitable, and easy cleanup makes hardwood a convenient and affordable luxury. In the case of scuff marks, the unsightly smudge probably hasn't damaged the wood itself. Keep it that way by using some care and common sense when doing the cleanup.
Hardwood flooring is often treated with finishes, like polyurethane, which add shine and a layer of protection. Cleaners and abrasives can dull protective coatings even though the wood underneath hasn't been damaged. The dull finish you're left with is a different kind of mark, a dull patch. This effect can be cumulative, and areas like entryways, hallways and other well trafficked spots in your home are particularly susceptible.
Good Hardwood Cleaning Practices
As a general rule, avoid using abrasives, bleach or ammonia on hardwood floors. If your floor is relatively new, you may still have the manufacturer's recommendations for caring for it properly. If so, always follow the manufacturer's directions. If not, when you're confronted with scuff marks, select a cleaning process that has the least likelihood of causing damage while still removing the spot.
There are a number of strategies you can try, but remember, most of them have the potential to cause damage, so go with the gentlest and work from there. A little abrasive action when cleaning scuff marks is inevitable, but always try the least aggressive method first. The size of the scuff mark will give you an idea of how big a job you're looking at.
When cleaning, use gentle, even pressure, and work with, not against the grain of the wood. Wipe up any excess liquid immediately. Always use a soft, clean, colorfast cloth. Before scuff marks or scratches become a problem, consider covering high traffic areas with area rugs and sweep the floor often to avoid grinding dirt, sand, and grit into the floor.
Methods for How to Get Scuff Marks Off of Hardwood Floors
The following list will give you some suggestions for how to get scuff marks off of hardwood floors using common household products. You don't always need to buy a special product for the job. Some unexpected resources can be pressed into service:
| Cleaner | Recommended Use | Cautions |
| Eraser | You can use a regular pencil eraser, although there are special hard-rubber erasers designed especially for floor cleaning that work well on stubborn marks. | Can cause dulling of protective finishes if used repeatedly. |
| WD-40 type product | This is safe and can also help give your wood some shine. It works best on light scuff marks. | Clean up thoroughly after use as it can leave the floor slippery. |
| Rubber soled shoe | If you're in a hurry and don't have an eraser, sometimes putting on rubber soled shoes and twisting one of them over the scuff mark will do the trick. | Avoid using black, rubber soled shoes on light wood finishes. |
| Toothpaste or baking soda | These are two of the mildest abrasives around. Use a clean, damp cloth or an old, moistened toothbrush to apply them to the mark. Rub gently with the grain of the wood. | If your wood is scratched or pitted, toothpaste and baking soda can leave a chalky residue that's hard to remove. |
| Housecleaning eraser pad | Rub the scuff mark with the grain of the wood according to the manufacturer's instructions. | These new style cleaners look smooth and safe, and they usually are, but repeated use can dull surfaces, including wood. |
| Fine steel wool | For very stubborn marks on dark wood. Use only the finest steel wool (#000 or #0000). | Can cause dulling and abrade the wood. If you wax your floor, try coating the wool in a waxing solution before you begin. |
| Mineral spirits (naptha) | Wipe scuff marks gently with a clean cloth. | This is a caustic, flammable substance; so use caution. |
Hardwood floors can be a beautiful addition to any room. With a little time and effort you can keep yours in good condition by removing unsightly scuff marks safely.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 1,594 times. This page was last modified 02:33, 29 October 2009.
© 2006-2009 LoveToKnow Corp.
Print this page
Follow ltk on twitter
Visit us on facebook