How to Clean Cork Floor – Essential Steps

Cork flooring has countless advantages. It is used in every place, whether it is in public buildings or businesses. To get the warm and cozy vibes, cork flooring is a great idea. And you must clean the cork floor to achieve this.

Cork flooring can last more than 30 years if maintained properly. To keep it in its original form, you need to look after it now and then.

All you need to do is clean the floor regularly so that it does not look dull even after several years. During installation, high-quality material used in the finishing can help the floors stay away from stains and debris. A little carelessness can damage the flooring.

 

Tools Required to Clean Cork Flooring

• Soft bristle broom or brush
• A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush
• A mop
• Vinegar
• Water
• Mild detergent
• Baking soda

Before spending money on this flooring, the most important thing is to know:

How to Clean Cork Floor the Safe Way?

Let us look at a few effective ways to clean cork floor in detail to get a better idea.

Sweeping

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A soft broom or brush with soft bristles should be used to sweep. Keep in mind that clean the floor from dirt and dust regularly. To avoid scratches, do not use a broom with stiff bristles.

In the case of using a vacuum, a soft brush must be used. Remove dust or dirt as soon as possible to avoid scratches on the floor.

Mopping

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Once a week, the cork flooring must be cleaned with water and a mop. Keep in mind that minimal water should be used to mop the floor. Do not use strong solutions in water. Always try to use a good quality mop for cork floor cleaning.

Vinegar is the best cork floor cleaner instead of the chemical agents bought from the store. To make a solution for a mop, add four cups of vinegar to a gallon of water.

Depending on the traffic in the area, you may use the mop twice a week. The spills must be wiped by any dry cloth otherwise the moisture will damage the flooring.

Removing Stains

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To remove stains use a mild detergent. A soft brush can be used to rub the stain. Apply mop to clean it. Stubborn stains can be removed by using baking soda. Rub the stained area with a brush then clean with a mop.

Preventing Damage Using Mats

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Place cork floor mats in the area of the floor which is used too much. All the entrances must have mats. These mats must be made of fiber so that they can absorb moisture.

The cork floors in the kitchen can be protected by placing mats. All the areas that are used too much like the sink and stove must be covered. Use a mop to remove the spills as soon as possible.

Similarly, the same solution will be for the cork floor in the bathroom. Mats should be placed in front of the sink, and bathtub. If the floor gets wet, wipe it up with a dry cloth.

Reapply Sealant

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Sealed cork flooring does not damage for many years. That’s why if the sealant between the tiles of the cork flooring goes away, reapply it.

Do not use hard wax oil for the filling because it goes away in a short period. A water-based polyurethane finish is recommended. After applying, leave it and let it dry for 24 to 48 hours.

In busy areas, the sealant must be reapplied after every few months.

House Plants

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If you have house plants at home, put a tray under the plants because the floor may absorb the water. Do not put items full of water on this flooring.

Removing Scratches

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Small scratches can be removed by using a buffing machine. Using this machine make sure that you use soft disks. Do not grind too much of the floor.

After buffing, you must apply a polyurethane finish. To avoid scratches, make sure that you do not drag or pull furniture.

In addition to that, place small pads under the legs of all the tables, chairs, and beds. Use furniture sliders to avoid scratches.

Coat to Protect Cork Flooring

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Use a polyurethane coat for the protection of the cork flooring. By applying this, the floor will not  damage for years. Polyurethane coat also gives shine to the flooring.

Moreover, use the wax coat  for the protection of cork flooring. The wax coat is easy to apply because it is a natural substance. But you have to reapply wax coat after a year.

Reduce Sunlight

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Direct sunlight damages the cork flooring. Use curtains, tints, or windows to cover the areas of the flooring exposed to sunlight.

Precautions

• Avoid dragging, pulling, and pushing to prevent scratches.
• Use furniture sliders to move it.
• Place rubber mats under the legs of the furniture.
• Keep in mind that never use the following items in cleaning the floor. These things heavily damage the flooring; Powerful chemicals and strong cleansers.

Important Point

Clean the floor more frequently if there are kids or some pets in the house.

Pros and Cons of Cleaning Cork Flooring

Advantages

• As cork has thermal properties. Cork flooring gives us warmth in the winter season.
• It is easy to install and maintain.
• It does not cause any type of allergy because bacteria and other insects hate it. They run away from this flooring.
• It is environmentally friendly flooring.
• Cork flooring is very comfortable to walk on.
• It has a property to reduce noise.
• As there is a waxy substance in cork. It would not burn quickly. So it would not produce flames.
• The busy patterns made on the texture of the cork flooring hide all the minor scratches on it.
• To clean cork floor is kind to your body due to the small little air bubbles in it. That’s why it is comfortable for old or disabled people.

Disadvantages

• If cork flooring is exposed to sunlight directly it is damaged.
• It expands in humidity.
• Sharp objects leave scratches on them.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Wash Cork Flooring?

No, you should not wash cork floor. Washing damages it because it absorbs water.

How Do You Clean Cork Flooring?

We have described cork flooring cleaning methods in this guide. These methods include sweeping with a soft broom, mopping with a wet cloth, or vacuuming with a soft brush.

Is Cork Flooring a Good Idea?

Yes, cork flooring is a good idea, if you are looking for qualities like easy installation, warmth, silence, and a floor that has no insects or bacteria on it. Moreover, its manufacturing material is natural.

Is Cork Flooring Warmer?

Yes, cork flooring is warmer naturally. And it is also quiet.

What Happens When the Cork Floor Gets Wet?

When the cork floor gets wet and is not cleaned quickly, the floor expands and absorbs water.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explained all the details to clean and maintain cork flooring. Before spending money on installing the floor, keep in mind to clean and maintain it regularly.

Furthermore, if you take care of the flooring, it will be in good condition. With little effort to maintain it, you will enjoy cork flooring for years. Maintenance is very important to clean cork flooring.

Nevertheless, we hope the information given in this article will be what you are looking for.