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DIY Wood Floor Cleaner: A Simple, Eco-Friendly Solution Using Vinegar and Warm Water

Updated on April 13, 2023 by Joseph D. Nielson

Table of Contents

wooden plank textured background material

You’re standing in your living room when you realize you haven’t cleaned your floors in a long time. Perhaps you’ve been putting it off because you’d prefer an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution that gets the job done quickly and with minimal effort.

Don’t worry because today on Fresh Home Guide, we will show you step-by-step instructions to make a DIY wood floor cleaner using just vinegar and warm water.

Read on for all the details!

Materials and Tools Needed

In order to make this DIY wood floor cleaner, you’ll need the following materials and tools:

  • Vinegar: White vinegar is ideal for this cleaner as it has natural disinfectant properties. Avoid using any other type of vinegar as it may contain additives that could damage your wood floors
  • Warm Water: The mixture should be no hotter than lukewarm. Any warmer and it could start to strip the finish from your floors
  • Bucket: A bucket or large bowl is ideal for mixing the cleaning solution
  • Microfiber Cloth or Mop: A microfiber cloth is preferred as it won’t damage the surface of your wood floors. Alternatively, you can use a mop
  • Vacuum (optional): Vacuuming first before mopping will ensure that all of the dirt and debris is removed from the surface of your floors

Directions on Using the Wood Floor Cleaner

Now that you have all the materials and tools, it’s time to get started the cleaning process! Here are the steps you need to follow in order to do so:

  1. Prepare the Cleaning Solution: In a bucket or large bowl, mix ⅓ cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water
  2. Vacuum or Sweep the Floor (optional): To ensure that all dirt and debris is removed from the surface, it’s recommended to vacuum or sweep your floor before mopping. This will make the cleaning process much easier and more efficient
  3. Mop the Floor: Dip your mop or microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wring it out until it is only lightly damp. Start at one side of the room and work in small sections at a time, using circular motions to spread the cleaner across the floor
  4. Let Dry: Allow your floors to air dry, avoiding any direct sunlight as this could damage the finish

Final Thoughts 

Making your own DIY wood floor cleaner using vinegar and warm water is a great way to get your floors looking like new without spending a fortune. Not only is it more cost-effective than store-bought cleaners, but it is also much safer for the environment and your floors.

Keep Reading!

How to Choose the Best Vacuums for Hardwood Floors – Updated Feb 2023 (freshhomeguide.com) 

Tricks to Enhance Discolored Vinyl Floor Cleaning (freshhomeguide.com)

FAQ

Q. What type of vinegar is best to use when making a DIY wood floor cleaner?

A. White vinegar is the best type of vinegar to use as it contains mild acidic prop erties that are ideal for cleaning wood floors without damaging them. Avoid using any other type of vinegar as it may contain additives that could damage your wood floors.

Q. How much should I mix together for each batch?

A. For each batch, mix ⅓ cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water. This will create enough solution to clean an average-sized room.

Q. Is there anything else I can add to the mixture?

A. Yes! You can add a few drops of essential oil to the mixture for an added fragrance. Additionally, you can also use a few teaspoons of baking soda to help remove stubborn dirt and grime.

Q. How often should I clean my wood floors?

A. It’s recommended to mop your wood floors at least once a week with your DIY cleaner in order to keep them looking their best. Additionally, it may be helpful to vacuum or sweep the floors before mopping as this will help ensure that all dirt and debris is removed from the surface.

Joseph and Family
About Joseph D. Nielson

Former journalist and editor for various press groups, I now dedicate my time to reviewing products for the home and family life. When I get time to myself, I enjoy rock climbing, taking my dirt bike for a rip, and most importantly providing my family with the best home possible!