Every homeowner with a hardwood floor is bound to be keen in keeping his floor shining its best for years to come. In many instances, however, they may think it takes a lot of effort. This is especially true for new homeowners who are intimidated with the thought of keeping their hardwood floor clear of scratches and discoloration. If you're one of these homeowners, then you can stop worrying right now. Caring for hardwood floors is not a complicated process. All that a shiny hardwood floor requires is careful maintenance and periodic floor refinishing. Much of the maintenance involved only requires regular cleaning with a broom and a dry mop. In addition to habitual cleaning, there are also some points you'll need to remember to keep your floor in pristine condition.

Spilled liquids are your floor's worst enemy. They can cause extensive discoloration and staining if left unattended. Hardwood floors are less absorptive than carpets but they can still end up getting stained. Always make sure, therefore, to wipe away or mop any spilled liquids at the earliest opportunity. Use a dry mop for your regular floor cleaning regimen, and do not let damp items such as winter boots sit for a prolonged period on your floor. Its always a good idea to have a dry mat on your front door where guests can wipe their shoes dry.

Scratches on your floor are often caused by dirt and grit rubbing against its surface. Having a regular cleaning regimen can help avoid this. Some scratches, however, are caused by furniture movement. Make sure that your furniture pieces are padded underneath so as to prevent such scratches. If you have to move furniture, make it a point to lift them rather than dragging them against the floor. As much as possible, keep clawed pets out of the room at all times.

Even the strictest cleaning regimen will not keep hardwood floors from dulling through time. A floor's shine is produced by its finishing product, the top coating on the floor. Sunlight and regular usage can bear down on your floor and thin the wood finishing. Periodic floor refinishing and resurfacing will take care of this. If your floor is losing its shine, you can avail of floor refinishing services to bring it back. This service, commonly provided by floor specialists, is a straightforward process by which the floor is sanded and finishing is reapplied.

There's definitely no reason to fret about caring for your floor. If you follow the tips above, your hardwood floor is bound to last for generations to come.