Maintaining Your Investment: Tips for Long-Lasting Floors in La Crosse

Your floors are an investment, and proper care can significantly extend their life and beauty. At Decker Design in La Crosse, WI, we want to help you keep your floors looking fantastic for years to come. Here's our guide to maintaining common flooring types:

Hardwood Floors: Preserve Their Timeless Elegance

Hardwood floors bring warmth and sophistication to any home. The key to their longevity lies in preventative measures and regular, gentle care.

Daily/Weekly Care: A quick sweep or dry mop will whisk away dust and dirt before it can scratch the finish. For high-traffic areas, a light vacuuming can also be beneficial.

Prompt Spill Cleanup: Accidents happen! When they do, clean spills immediately. Use cleaning products specifically designed for hardwood and avoid harsh chemicals that can strip or damage the finish.

Monthly Refresh: Give your hardwood floors a deeper clean once a month with a damp mop. Follow up with a hardwood floor polish to restore their luster.

Preventative Power:

• Place mats or rugs in high-traffic zones like entryways.

• Consider a "shoes off" policy at the door or wear soft-soled shoes indoors.

• Apply felt pads to the legs of all furniture to prevent scratches when moving pieces.

• If you have furry friends, keep their nails trimmed to protect your floors from scratches.

LVP/LVT Floors: Effortless Beauty, Easy Care

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) floors are incredibly popular for their durability and low-maintenance appeal.

Regular Cleaning: A soft-bristled broom or a vacuum specifically designed for vinyl floors will easily take care of loose dirt, dust, and debris.

Immediate Spill Attention: Just like with hardwood, clean up spills on your LVP/LVT promptly using appropriate cleaners. Again, steer clear of harsh chemicals.

Damp Mopping Done Right: When it's time to mop, use a damp mop with a neutral pH cleaner. The key here is "damp"—avoid saturating the floor with water.

Smart Protection:

• Utilize mats, rugs, or felt pads under furniture.

• Always lift heavy objects instead of dragging them across the floor.

• If you're considering a steam mop, double-check your flooring's specifications to ensure it's steam mop-approved. Not all vinyl can handle it!

Carpet Floors: Cozy Comfort, Lasting Appeal

Carpet adds warmth, comfort, and sound absorption to your home. Regular care keeps it looking fresh and extends its lifespan.

Vacuuming is Key: Your vacuum cleaner is your carpet's best friend! Choose a vacuum that's right for your carpet type and lifestyle. If you have pets, invest in a vacuum designed to effectively remove pet dander and hair.

Spill Savvy: When spills occur, act fast! Blot the affected area immediately – do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fibers. A spot cleaner made for your carpet type can be very helpful.

Protective Measures:

• Place mats or runners in high-traffic areas to minimize dirt and debris tracking.

• Encourage guests and family to remove shoes at the entrance.

• Change your air filters regularly to reduce airborne dust that can settle into your carpet.

• For snags, clip them carefully to maintain the carpet's appearance and prevent further tearing.

Taking a little time for regular floor maintenance can make a big difference in the appearance and longevity of your home's flooring. If you have any questions about caring for your specific floors, or if you're considering new flooring for your La Crosse home, don't hesitate to contact Decker Design today!

What kind of flooring do you have in your home, and what's your biggest challenge in keeping it clean?

Written By: Natalie Robertson, Interior Designer