How to Care for and Maintain Bamboo Floors for Longevity

Bamboo flooring is unique, attractive, and one of the most scratch-resistant flooring options. It is cleaned and maintained similarly to traditional hardwood floors. Bamboo is strong and versatile. While this type of fast-growing grass can be more durable than some woods, its hardness won’t benefit you for long without proper care and maintenance.

From the start, the floor should be left alone for 48 to 72 hours after installation. This allows it to acclimatize before you set down heavy furniture. After that, the health of your bamboo floor is all up to you.

Routine Cleaning Tips

We recommend sweeping or vacuuming your bamboo floor daily. Dust and dirt can cause small scratches that eventually dull the finish. The following tips can help keep your floor in top shape:

• Use a Bamboo Floor Cleaner: Use a cleaning solution approved for use with bamboo flooring or a soap-based solution suited for pre-finished wood floors. Common household cleaning products can cause damage. The cleaner should be mixed in a bucket of warm water and applied with only a slightly damp mop.
• Don’t Use a Wet/Steam Mop: A wet mop should be avoided. Excess water can damage the floor. Using a steam mop can cause major damage to the material and void the warranty.
• Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Vinegar, mineral spirits, paint thinner, turpentine, and other harsh compounds should never be used on a bamboo floor. They can damage the finish, leading to costly repairs. For optimal results, use a pH-neutral bamboo floor cleaner. If trying a new cleaner, always test it on a spare plank.
• Don’t Use an Oil Soap: Oil soap products aren’t suited for bamboo flooring. They can damage the protective layer and cause it to peel. Use only a cleaner recommended by the supplier.
• Use Only a Soft Cloth or Microfiber Brush: Never scrub your bamboo floor with a hard or stiff brush. Abrasive detergents can also be problematic. Always use non-abrasive materials and detergents and follow the floor supplier’s or manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
• Clean Spills and Stains Immediately: Any liquid should be cleaned up right away. If left for long enough, it can stain the finish. Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel and blot the spill gently. Do not rub excessively, which can damage the finish, and use plastic to gently scrape off anything sticky. 

Food or beverage stains can be cleaned with warm water and mild dish soap. Do not rub in the solution as it can push the liquid deeper into the material. Use a bamboo floor stain remover for ink, marker, and other stubborn stains.

• Deep Clean the Floor Properly: A deep cleaning may be required to clean up accumulated dirt and grime. It should be done with a pH-neutral wood cleaner or one formulated specifically for bamboo. Soaking the floor can cause it to discolor, warp, or buckle.

There are other situations in which you want to clean the floor properly. For example, if a cured adhesive is left on top of it, use a urethane adhesive remover if the floor has a polyurethane finish. If an oily residue is left behind, wipe the area with a warm, damp rag to loosen the oil and then a dry rag to soak up the oil. Then use an approved cleaning solution to clean the floor.

How to Help Bamboo Flooring Last Longer

A bamboo floor must be properly maintained to maximize its lifespan. Aside from regular cleaning, you’ll want to follow these tips to get the most out of your investment:

• Polish the Floor Annually: Polishing helps maintain your bamboo floor’s shine. The floor polish must be compatible with the material, so check the label or ask a dealer or retailer before you purchase a polishing product.
• Avoid Scratching: Small scratches can be fixed with a bamboo floor repair kit. Depending on the damage, it can be repaired using a color-matched wood filler. However, call a professional if the floor has deep scratches or gouges or starts to warp.
• Keep Humidity and Temperature Constant: Maintain an indoor relative humidity of 35% to 55% and temperature between 60℉ and 80℉. Bamboo flooring doesn’t respond well to significant changes in humidity or temperature. Keep track of your indoor environment and, if necessary, use a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain ideal conditions.
• Use a Chair Mat: If you use a rolling office chair, place a chair mat under it to avoid wearing away the finish. For the best protection, use only a chair mat approved for use with wood flooring. Using the wrong mat can result in moisture buildup and other problems.
• Use Furniture Pads: Place protective pads under the legs of chairs and tables to prevent scratching and scuffing. It’s easy to stick small pads on the bottom of furniture legs. It can go a long way in preserving the quality of your bamboo flooring.
• Lay Rugs: Using rugs and mats in high-traffic areas can reduce wear and tear. Non-slip and breathable mats protect a bamboo floor well. Rugs collect the dirt, dust, and moisture that would otherwise build up on the floor and potentially damage it. Don’t use rugs with a rubber or latex backing (they can cause discoloration). Instead, use rugs and mats with a natural rubber or felt backing.
• Avoid Covering the Floor: Covering a bamboo floor with construction paper or plastic can cause it to become discolored. Uneven light absorption can discolor the bamboo. Plastic membranes can increase humidity and cause moisture problems such as cupping or warping.
• Protect the Bamboo Against UV: To avoid color changes and fading due to exposure to direct sunlight, install a UV protection film on windows. Also, frequently rotate rugs and furniture to avoid uneven coloration due to sunlight exposure.
• Refinish Your Floor: As your bamboo flooring ages, it may need a new finish. To refinish it, the old finish must be sanded off before the new one is applied. This is not a simple process and can cause damage if done improperly. Therefore, you should consider hiring a professional.

Tips for DIY Bamboo Flooring Repair

Scratches, dents, and moisture-related damage can occur with time and reduce the aesthetics and longevity of your floor. Before attempting a DIY repair, identify the type of damage. Call a professional to address any deep scratches and warping. 

However, small scratches can sometimes be buffed out with a soft rag and a hardwood floor cleaner. Scratch concealers, wood floor repair markers, and other products are also available to consumers. Most other types of floor care should be handled by a specialist.

Hire a Bamboo Flooring Professional

Daily cleaning and regular maintenance can preserve your bamboo floor. However, consider a professional maintenance service when it’s time to deep clean, refinish, or restore it. You can then take advantage of all the benefits of sustainable flooring. Consider hiring a pro annually or biannually depending on the floor’s condition and usage. 

Contact Hernandez Wholesale Flooring

We offer many types of hardwood and carpet flooring at wholesale prices to customers in and around Commerce, CA, and Santa Ana, CA. Our family-owned and operated company has proudly served the Los Angeles area since 1970. An extensive collection of materials is stored in our local warehouses. Our flooring specialists know different types, brands, and specifications to find a cost-effective solution for your home improvement project. Contact us today to learn more.