Can you use bleach on hardwood floors? A guide to bleaching floors (2023)

Cleaning is an important aspect of maintaining the appearance of a room. Unfortunately, some cleaning products can do more harm than good. We've all heard about using bleach on clothes, but can you use bleach on hardwood floors?

The short answer is yes, you can. However, using bleach is not as easy as it seems. It would be helpful to consider a few factors before using one as bleach can ruin your hardwood floor. In this article, we will give you a detailed guide on how to use bleach without causing permanent damage.

Factors to consider before using a floor bleach

1. Type of wooden floor

There are different types of hardwood floors including laminate, vinyl, plywood, solid wood, etc. Determining the type of hardwood floor you have plays an important part in answering the question "can you use bleach on hardwood floors?". Wood is a porous material, meaning liquid can easily flow through it. Most woods without a permanent finish will have trouble keeping bleach from penetrating their layers, and when that happens the wood will begin to crack.

Some types of wood can withstand a bleaching treatment, while others will be damaged. Exotic hardwood floors are more prone to damage when bleach is applied to it, so it's best to avoid this. Hardwoods such as red oak or beech, on the other hand, can be bleached. If you are not sure which type of woodYou have and if you can use bleach, consult a professional.

2. Type of bleach

Another point to consider is the bleach you are using. If you're trying to get rid of a stain indoors, it's best to use a bleach that doesn't have a strong odor. Also, there are some bleaches that are not suitable for hardwood floors, while others are. Some bleaches work better outdoors, while others are not suitable for indoor use.

Check the bleach label to confirm before purchasing. Knowing the type of bleach you use can help you know what steps to take before cleaning your floor.

3rd digit

If other cleaning methods can remove the stain on the floor, do not use bleach. Using floor bleach should be your last option, not your first. If the stain is too large, it may be best to call a professional. Considering the area of ​​the stain will help you determine which bleach to use. Also the type of stain, i. H. Ink, blood, pet stain, etc., will help you choose the amount of bleach. The goal is not to use more than necessary.

4. Equipment

Having determined the type of floor, you should also pay attention to the equipment you will use to clean the floor. If you use a brush, make sure it has soft bristles that won't damage the floor but will still remove the stain. Also, be sure to invest in agood spin mopThis would not leave scratches on your floor. Some bleaches require the wearing of gloves, goggles, or face masks, so it's important to keep these factors in mind.

Can you use bleach on hardwood floors? Here's a guide...

Step one

Prepare all your materials. The first step in cleaning is to make sure you have all the necessary materials nearby. So what do you need to use bleach on hardwood floors?

  • waterproof gloves
  • brush
  • glasses
  • face mask
  • Bucket
  • Lixa
  • sanitary water

Keep in mind that the bleach you use should work well with the stain you have. For example, if you have a small beverage stain on the floor, you don't need to use a two-part bleach reserved for the most stubborn of stains. If you want to disinfect the area while cleaning, oxalic acid is the way to go. Before using chlorine bleach, make sure you know how.

second step

The next step is the preparation of the soil. You need to put on the mask and get the sandpaper. You can also wear glasses. Use the sandpaper to sand down the stained area. You can use a chemical remover, but we found the sandpaper method to be less toxic, and you will most likely remove some of these stains during this step.

step three

The third step is to apply the bleach. Wear your waterproof gloves. Most people don't like the smell of bleach, so it's good to have a face mask on hand. We recommend using safety goggles to avoid eye irritation. When using bleach on your hardwood floor, follow the directions on the product. Most brands recommend mixing the bleach with water, while others don't.

Be careful when using bleach on the floor and only focus on the affected area. Use a brush to scrub the stain and let the bleach absorb it. Leave on for 5-10 minutes. If the stain doesn't come out, you can add more bleach and scrub again, but be careful not to overdo it.

step four

The next step is just as important as the others. They neutralize the bleach. If you use bleach to clean, this is importantneutralizearea so that the bleach has no further effect. If you skip this step, the bleach could crack or whiten the wood. Two-part bleach usually comes with a neutralizer. If you are using oxalic acid, you can use white vinegar or baking soda as a neutralizing agent. You can do the same with chlorine, although you will have to clean it with distilled water. Clean the treated area well and let the wood dry.

Fifth step

After the floor has dried for about a day, repaint it if necessary.

I keep asking myself: can bleach be used on wooden floors? ...

Can you use bleach on hardwood floors? Yes you can, but it's a touchy subject because there are many considerations to take into account before doing anything. Keep in mind that if you don't feel like bleaching, it's best to leave it to a professional so you don't cause further damage to your hardwood floor.

Thank you for reading!

In some of our articles, particularly product-related stories, you may see that they contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no cost to you if you make a purchase through my link. The purpose of my beloved vacuum base website has always been to educate and help people with the deep knowledge I have accumulated throughout my career. If you are purchasing through an affiliate link, thank you and we appreciate your support!

Can you use bleach on hardwood floors? A guide to bleaching floors (5)

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