Professional Wooden Floors Cleaning Guide

Understanding Wooden Floor Characteristics

Wooden floors come in various types—solid hardwood, engineered wood, and laminate flooring—each requiring a tailored cleaning approach. Despite their differences, they share key characteristics:

• Moisture sensitivity: Excessive water can cause swelling, warping, or discoloration.
• Surface delicacy: Abrasive pads or harsh chemicals can damage coatings or strip finishes.
• Finish dependency: The protective layer determines cleaning frequency and method—waxed, oiled, and polyurethane-coated surfaces each respond differently to cleaning solutions.

That’s why Aiolith commercial scrubbers are equipped with precise water control systems and soft pad technology—ideal for maintaining wooden floors safely and effectively.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution

Selecting the right detergent is essential for maintaining the beauty and integrity of wood flooring. Here are our recommendations:

✓ Neutral pH Cleaners (pH 7) — Safe for most sealed wooden floors; removes dust, dirt, and light residues.

✓ Wood-Specific Detergents — Formulated with gentle surfactants that clean without softening or dulling finishes.

✗ Avoid Acidic or Alkaline Solutions — These can strip finishes or discolor the surface.

✗ Avoid Solvent-Based or Oil-Heavy Cleaners — They can leave sticky residues or affect surface coatings.

Pro Tip: Always ensure the floor is properly sealed before wet cleaning. Unsealed or poorly finished wood should only be cleaned with damp pads and minimal moisture.

How to Use Aiolith Floor Scrubbers

Aiolith machines are designed to clean wooden floors safely and efficiently with controlled moisture and gentle mechanical action. Follow this step-by-step guide:

1. Dry Dusting First: Sweep or vacuum thoroughly to remove grit and debris that may scratch the floor during scrubbing.
2. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Dilute the neutral wood-safe detergent in clean water and pour it into the Aiolith scrubber’s solution tank.
3. Select Gentle Pad or Brush: Use white or beige pads designed for delicate wood surfaces. Avoid stiff brushes or abrasive materials.
4. Adjust Water Flow and Pressure: Set low water output and light brush pressure. The goal is to clean effectively without leaving excess moisture.
5. Operate Smoothly and Evenly: Move the scrubber slowly and steadily. Avoid pausing over one spot to prevent over-wetting.
6. Immediate Water Recovery: Aiolith’s high-efficiency squeegee system ensures dirty water is instantly collected, leaving the surface nearly dry.
7. Final Buffing (Optional): For added shine, use a soft buffing pad to enhance the wood’s natural luster once the floor is completely dry.

Precautions When Cleaning Wooden Floors

Wooden flooring requires careful handling to avoid damage. Follow these essential safety tips:

• Never flood the surface with water or cleaning solution.
• Always test detergents in an inconspicuous area before use.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or wax-based products that may leave residues.
• Use soft wheels and clean squeegees on the scrubber to prevent marking.
• Maintain room humidity between 40–60% to prevent wood expansion or shrinkage.