Hardwood floors bring timeless beauty and long-term value to your home—but they need the right care, especially during the summer months when more dirt, sunlight, and foot traffic can take a toll. If you’re enjoying the season with open windows, backyard gatherings, or trips to and from the pool, now’s the perfect time to give your floors some focused attention.
Here are practical, easy-to-follow summer maintenance tips from your local experts at Pocatello Flooring to help protect your wood floors and keep them looking their best all season long.
Use Entry Mats (and Clean Them Often)
Pocatello summers can mean dusty sidewalks and debris from outdoor activities. Stop that grit at the door with quality entry mats both inside and outside your home. This simple step helps prevent tiny rocks or dirt from scratching your wood floors. Shake out or vacuum mats weekly—if they’re dirty, they won’t do their job.
Stay on Top of Sweeping and Vacuuming
With sandals, bare feet, and open doors, summer tends to bring more particles into the house. Daily sweeping or dry mopping goes a long way in keeping abrasive dust off your floors. Use a vacuum with a hardwood setting (no beater bar) once or twice a week for deeper debris in corners and edges.
Mind the Spills—Especially from Cold Drinks
Condensation from cold beverages, melting ice, or water tracked in from the backyard can seep into your floors if left sitting. Use coasters and placemats in dining areas, and be sure to clean up puddles or spills right away with a soft, dry cloth.
Block Direct Sunlight to Prevent Fading
Hardwood floors can fade or discolor over time when exposed to strong sunlight. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window films during the sunniest parts of the day. You can also rearrange rugs and furniture every few months to prevent uneven fading in high-exposure spots.
Rotate Area Rugs and Furniture
Summer often means more movement—guests over, kids home from school, or just shifting how you use your space. Take this opportunity to rotate area rugs and furniture slightly to prevent permanent dents or traffic wear in one spot. It also gives the floor beneath time to breathe and adjust.
Spot Check for Wear or Damage
Noticing small scratches or dull areas in high-traffic zones? Summer is a great time to catch these early. If your floors are looking tired or you’re seeing wear beyond normal maintenance, talk to us about hardwood refinishing. It’s a cost-effective way to revive your existing floors without a full replacement.
Avoid Wet Mops and Steam Cleaners
Even in warmer months, water and hardwood don’t mix. Stick to lightly damp microfiber mops for cleaning, and skip the steam mop entirely. The heat and moisture can damage wood planks over time, especially at the seams.
Protect the Floor During Summer Projects
Planning a DIY room refresh or moving furniture for summer hosting? Place felt pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging heavy items. If you’re painting or renovating, cover the floor with a breathable drop cloth to shield it from spills or scratches.
Keep Your Hardwood Floors Looking Great All Year
Following these summer tips will help extend the life and appearance of your hardwood floors—and keep your home looking polished, even through Idaho’s busiest season.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your floors or have questions about long-term care, request an estimate from Pocatello Flooring. We’re here to help you protect your investment and make the most of your space.
