However avoid using a steam mop on unsealed hardwoods as they re more vulnerable and easily damaged by excessive moisture.
Hardwood floor damage from steam machine.
Make sure the floor sealer is in good condition.
You can use these machines to mop and sometimes even sweep without killing your back because they do all the work for you.
The reason these claims are made is that these cleaners have a function that wipes up excess moisture as it moves along the floor absorbing the water and supposedly leaving the floor dry.
If you re looking into a steam mop for a hardwood floor.
Expert opinions about steam cleaning hardwood floors.
Keep steaming on as low of a setting as possible.
Over time vinegar and water will dull the floor s finish while soap or wax will leave a residue.
Steam cleaners put heat and excessive water on your floor which can lead to cupping and long term damage.
Exercising caution common sense steam cleaning hardwood floors.
Sealed hardwood floors can withstand the moisture and heat from a steam mop and they clean really nicely with a streak free finish.
Read reviews of different hardwood floor cleaning machines and what customers are saying.
Stocki says it s best to avoid using a steam mop on laminate which is made of fiberboard because the heat could damage the plastic.
But here are the steps we take to try to reduce potential damage from using a steam mop on hardwood floors.
Again i m no expert on the subject.
So throw away that old fashioned mop bucket and take a look at the machines we ve researched in our hardwood floor cleaner buying guide.
Even for non wood flooring you need to exercise caution.
Several companies sell steam cleaning machines that are supposedly able to clean hardwood floors safely.
Correct severe cases of cupping on hardwood floors by sanding and refinishing but on laminate and some engineered floors replacement of the damaged boards is the only option.
Avoid using water and vinegar soap based cleaners wax or steam cleaners on your hardwood floor.