When it comes to controversial cleaning topics, cleaning hardwood floors with vinegar is close to the top believe it or not. If you are in the ‘it’s not safe camp’, you probably won’t like this post. But in my research and years of personal cleaning experience, I believe that there are 3 basic and safe methods that can be used.

What’s the big concern with vinegar and hardwood floors? Vinegar is an acid and hardwood floors need a pH neutral or close to it cleaner. When mixed with water, the solution’s acidity is drastically lowered and it becomes an effective method to wash hardwood floors. The vinegar and water mixture cuts through dirt and grime, leaving a streak-free and naturally clean floor.

3 Ways to Wash Hardwood Floors via Clean Mama

NOTE:  Cleaning floors with vinegar is merely my suggestion, please form your own opinion and try at your own risk. If you are unsure, test in an inconspicuous spot. These recipes are only for SEALED hardwood floors or pre-fabricated hardwood floors, not waxed or unfinished hardwoods.

I always I like to give my readers a range of options and solutions. Some people love making their own cleaners while others prefer the pre-mixed, ready to go options. I only recommend products that are non-toxic and safe to use around people and pets, but these are all products that I use and love. At the end of the post you’ll see some a post linked with other hardwood floor cleaning options if you don’t want to use vinegar.

You probably know this, but it’s worth mentioning:

Hardwood floors foot sections and never let standing water sit on hardwood floors as it can warp and ruin the wood.

 

3 Ways to Safely Wash Hardwood Floors with Vinegar…

Bucket Method via Clean Mama

Method #1: By Hand with a Bucket and Cloth

This is the old-fashioned method to wash floors and works great if you are wanting to get up close and personal with your floors. I don’t do this every week, but when I feel like the floors need a really good cleaning, this works really well. You can use the mixture on most baseboards too.

  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1 gallon of warm water
  • 2-3 drops essential oils (I love lemon or lemon and clove for my hardwood floors)

 

Refillable Spray Mop via Clean Mama

Method #2: Refillable Spray Mop

Refillable spray mops (this is the one I’m using now – I love it!) are super convenient and work well for daily touch ups and regular floor cleaning. Make sure that your microfiber pad is rinsed frequently to prevent streaking.

  • 3 teaspoons white vinegar
  • 16 ounces of warm water
  • 1-2 drops essential oils (I love lemon or lemon and clove for my hardwood floors)

 

Spray Bottle and Microfiber Mop via Clean Mama

Method #3: Spray Bottle and Microfiber Mop

If you prefer a spray bottle and microfiber mop, this works great – I recommend this microfiber mop. Mix up the same solution that you’d put in a refillable spray mop bottle, wet the mop head with water and wring out. Then spray and wipe, working in 4-6 foot sections.

  • 3 teaspoons white vinegar
  • 16 ounces of warm water
  • 1-2 drops essential oils (I love lemon or lemon and clove for my hardwood floors)