It may seem impossible to keep hardwood floors looking beautiful and shiny, but picking the correct cleaning can make all the difference. The right product will not only preserve the shine but also help prevent damage like warping or fading.
Kathy Cohoon, operations manager at Two Maids & A Mop, highlights a crucial cleaning tip: “Avoid products with bleach or brighteners to protect your floor’s finish. Harsh chemicals, like ammonia, can severely damage hardwood floors.” In addition, Josh Kou, operations manager at North Castle Hardwoods, shared insights on proper hardwood care.
Discovering the Best Natural Hardwood Floor Cleaners
To determine the top hardwood floor cleaners on the market, we conducted an extensive test of 20 different products in our Des Moines lab. Each product was evaluated based on its cleaner type, ease of application, and overall formula effectiveness. To further refine our approach, we consulted Josh Kou, operations manager at North Castle Hardwoods, who shared expert tips for achieving pristine hardwood floors.
Our testing highlighted several standout products that excelled in cleaning efficiency and floor protection. Whether you prefer a ready-to-use spray or a concentrated formula, the right hardwood floor cleaner can make all the difference. We found that the best hardwood floor cleaners not only clean effectively but also preserve the natural beauty and finish of your floors.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner – $7 (Amazon)
A highly effective and easy-to-use solution, this cleaner excels at maintaining shine while being safe for most hardwood finishes.
Best Budget Option: Fabuloso Multipurpose Cleaner – $27 (Amazon)
A versatile cleaner that works on multiple surfaces, including hardwood, delivering great results without breaking the bank.
Best Eco-Friendly Choice: Seventh Generation Multi-Surface Cleaner Concentrate – $9 (Amazon)
This plant-based cleaner is ideal for those seeking an environmentally-friendly option without sacrificing performance.
The best concentrate : Pallmann Hardwood Floor Cleaner Concentrate, which costs $41 (down from $50 on Amazon).
This concentrated formula is great for deep cleans and offers excellent long-term value, requiring only a small amount per use.
Best Multi-Surface Cleaner: Pine-Sol Multi-Purpose Cleaner – $10 (Amazon)
A household staple, Pine-Sol is effective on hardwood as well as other surfaces, providing flexibility in cleaning routines.
Best Quick-Drying Cleaner: Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner – $15 (Amazon)
Designed for speed, this cleaner leaves floors shiny and dry in minutes, perfect for homes with high traffic.
Best for Shine: Rejuvenate All Floors Cleaner – $7 (Amazon)
This product stands out for restoring dull floors to a polished finish, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood.
Murphy Original Formula Oil Soap: is the best oil-based cleaner, and it only $5 on Amazon.
A trusted name, Murphy’s Oil Soap adds a protective sheen while nourishing the wood, making it a top choice for those who prefer oil-based formulas.
The greatest scented cleanser: is Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Concentrate. It costs $7, but on Amazon, it was $10.
Known for its refreshing scents, this multi-surface cleaner leaves a pleasant aroma while effectively cleaning hardwood floors.
Best Bulk Option: Mr. Clean Professional Finished Floor Cleaner* – $13 (Amazon)
Perfect for larger spaces, this bulk cleaner is designed to last and is great for regular maintenance.
How to Pick the Best Cleaner for Hardwood Floors
Selecting a hardwood floor cleaner that meets your specific cleaning needs is essential. Below is an overview of the most common types:
- Liquid Cleaners: Convenient for everyday cleaning, these ready-to-use solutions require no mixing. Simply spray or pour and mop.
- Concentrates: Ideal for those looking for long-term value. These cleaners need to be diluted but offer a more cost-effective option in the long run.
- Oil-Based Cleaners: Great for adding shine and a protective layer, but they may leave behind residue if not used correctly.
- Cream Cleaners: Primarily for polishing, cream cleaners enhance the shine of hardwood floors but are less suitable for deep cleaning.
Essential Cleaning Tools
- Vacuums: Choose vacuums with a hardwood setting to avoid scratches. Wet-dry vacuums can also be a great option for multi-surface cleaning.
- Mops: Opt for mops with microfiber heads to protect the wood while efficiently cleaning dirt and grime. Avoid steam mops, as excess moisture can harm the floor’s finish.
By selecting the right cleaner and tools, keeping your hardwood floors in pristine condition becomes much easier.