Bamboo flooring typically comes in bamboo boards and is not a bunch of bamboo shoots as some people might initially think. It looks similar to other wood floor coverings and is installed in a similar fashion.
There are some slight differences though in the installation and care process required for bamboo flooring. Cleaning bamboo flooring can be relatively simple process.
Accidental Spills
Accidental spills happen to all of us. Cleaning bamboo flooring that has an accidental spill is important. Never let an accidental spill be ignored and allowed to set on the flooring. The liquid from the spill will penetrate into the wood surface and potentially cause permanent staining.
The best method for cleaning up liquid spills is to take a soft, dry rag and soak up the liquid. Wipe the surface area immediately with dry paper towels making sure that all of the liquid is completely removed.
Not all spills are liquids but some are gooey messes. To clean up a sticky accident it is best to first remove as much of the spill as possible by lifting it directly off of the wood with a dry cloth or paper towel. Next, you will want to dampen, not soak, a soft rag.
Wipe over the sticky spot several times to lift it off of the wood. Never rub and scrub the accident or you will be massaging it into the wood pores which can result in staining of the floor. Once all of the accident is wiped and lifted off of the wood, dry the area with a paper towel.
Protect Flooring
All homes have major traffic areas such as in the entry-way to the front door. These areas need to be covered with some sort of throw rug or mat to protect the bamboo floor from becoming excessively dirty. In addition, you will want to cover all rolling furniture wheels with the soft rubber casters made specifically for the furniture type.
Apply small pieces of felt to other furniture legs. You will find yourself spending less time cleaning bamboo flooring if the floor is protected from nicks and scratches which can gather dust and additional dirt particles.
Daily Cleaning
It is imperative that you dust mop or use a soft bristled floor vacuum on the bamboo flooring daily. You never want to allow dirt, dust, pet hairs or other grime that is tracked into the home build up on your bamboo flooring.
It is relatively fast to go around your home with a dust mop and clean up from the day. You can inspect the floor for footprints and make them disappear with a soft and lightly damp sponge.
Weekly Cleaning Bamboo Flooring
Weekly you will want to mix one-fourth a cup of virgin white vinegar with approximately one quart of warm tap water. Barely dampen a soft cloth mop-head with the vinegar solution and mop a small section at a time. As you mop, stop and dry the section with a clean, dry soft towel.
Repeat the process until the entire bamboo flooring has been covered. You never ever want to completely saturate your bamboo flooring because this will cause serious damage to the wood.
Luster Restoration
Cleaning a bamboo floor is important but at the same time it can cause the floor to eventually lose some of its magnificent luster. Approximately every six to eight months, you will want to rent an electric buffer and buff the entire floor after it has had a good cleaning. This will help to maintain the luster and keep the wood in top quality condition.