Question:
My mother uses plain old water and a mop to clean her hardwood floors - adding a bit of vinegar to the water every couple of weeks for a more thorough clean. But I've been told never to use water on my wood floors. Can you clarify?
Answer:
An important reminder: You aren't cleaning the wood boards themselves (unless they are damaged and exposed) ... you are cleaning the finish, the coating on top of the boards meant to protect them. But regardless of this protective coating, no matter how thick and durable it is supposed to be, there is no such thing as a water proof wood floor.
Water and other liquids (such as a professional hardwood floor cleaner) can seep into the gaps between boards, especially as they shrink and expand due to moisture in the air, or because the coating is starting to wear or has been damaged. So it is very important not to use soaking wet cleaning tools or leave standing water on the floor.
In regards to cleaning, water isn't the issue. It's a liquid like anything else you might use. The issue is HOW you apply it to the floor, how wet the floor gets, if any water whatsoever is left behind to impart damage.
Check out "How To Clean Hardwood Floors" for more details.
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