Do you have hardwood floors in your house and wonder if cleaning them with rubbing alcohol will damage the wood? Do you want to know if rubbing alcohol is toxic to humans? Those are good questions. We've researched them and will gladly share the answers with you today!
Rubbing alcohol will damage hardwood flooring if it is not diluted with water. Rubbing alcohol can break down the finish and damage the superficial layers of hardwood flooring.
Are you interested in learning more about cleaning hardwood floors and what cleaning products are safe to use? We've researched these topics and have gathered quality research results to share with you!
Does Rubbing Alcohol Damage Hardwood Floors?
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is a strong solvent that, when applied directly to hardwood, will start to remove the finish and erode the hardwood.
If you dilute rubbing alcohol with water, it will work as a cleaner. It is a popular method implemented by several thrifty bloggers. Please note that it is not the best solution for cleaning hardwood surfaces because the alcohol and water will damage the hardwood flooring.
For the best results, use a product formulated for cleaning hardwood flooring. For example, Murphy's Oil and Pine Sol are cleaners manufactured to clean hardwood without the risk of removing the finish.
Are you wondering if rubbing alcohol will work for cleaning vinyl siding? Click here to read Will Rubbing Alcohol Damage Vinyl Siding?
Is Isopropyl Alcohol Toxic?
Yes! Isopropyl alcohol is extremely toxic to children and adults when swallowed. Inhaling isopropyl alcohol fumes is harmful as well. You should only use the product in a well-ventilated area. If you are sensitive to strong aromas, consider wearing a protective mask to avoid the fumes and odors.
If you ingest or inhale the fumes, contact poison control immediately for medical advice and further instructions.
What Should You Not Clean Hardwood Floors With?
Using the correct products is paramount to ensure that your hardwood floor is protected from possible damage from harsh cleaners. The following is a list of cleaners to always avoid for your hardwood flooring.
- Ammonia. Only use if it has been diluted with the correct water ratio to the solution.
- Abrasive cleaners.
- Alkaline cleaners.
- Bleach.
- Lemon juice.
- Vinegar.
Can You Use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser On Hardwood Floors?
No. The Mr. Clean Magic Erasers are not designed for use on natural wood or faux hardwood floors. Instead, the product was manufactured for cleaning and removing stains from ceramic and vinyl floorings.
Are you wondering if the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser will clean an acrylic tub? Click here to read Can You Use Magic Eraser On Acrylic Tub?
Why Do My Wood Floors Always Look Dirty?
Several common reasons will lead to floors looking dirty.
- Air filtration issues will allow more dirt to collect on the flooring than on other flat surfaces.
- The age of the flooring and the quality of the finish will diminish over time.
- Foot traffic will cause the floors to look dirty.
- The finish on the flooring is wearing thin.
- Pets.
Can You Use Dawn Soap On Wood Floors?
Using Dawn dish soap on hardwood flooring is not the best option, but if you are out of Murphy Oil or Pine Sol, it will clean the grease and grime from the flooring.
Please note that using Dawn dish soap regularly will damage the hardwood floors and could leave a residue that will break down the finish over time.
If you use Dawn dish soap in the case of being out of your hardwood floor cleaner, be sure to rinse the floor with plain water to remove soap residue. Also, dry the floor with a dry mop head or towel to prevent water from pooling.
Will A Swiffer Ruin Hardwood Floors?
Using the Swiffer specifically designed for hardwood floors is an effective and straightforward way to clean your hardwood flooring.
Also, the easy-to-rotate mophead is excellent for cleaning those hard-to-reach corners, and the disposable mop pad significantly shortens your mopping routine.
Click here to view Swiffer WetJet on Amazon.
Will The Swiffer WetJet Remove Pollen From Hardwood Floors?
Yes. The Swiffer WetJet will remove pollen residue from hardwood floors. Pro tip: during the season of heavy pollen levels, you can clean the flooring an extra time or two per week with the Swiffer to remove pollen.
Eliminating allergens and pollen is much easier with hardwood flooring via Swiffer, sweeping, or vacuuming than with carpeted floors.
Is Fabuloso Safe For Hardwood?
Fabuloso anti-bacterial multi-purpose cleaner is formulated for cleaning several types of flooring and household surfaces. It is safe for sealed hardwood floors only. Do not use Fabuloso on any other types of hardwood flooring because it will damage the wood.
Click here to see Fabuloso cleaner on Amazon.
Does Murphy Oil Soap Shine Wood Floors?
Murphy oil soap has been manufactured since 1910. The product will remove dirt and help the hardwood flooring to shine after it dries.
Click here to view Murphy Oil Soap on Amazon.
Is Pine-Sol Good For Wood Floors?
Yes. Pine-Sol is a quality product that is formulated to clean hardwood flooring thoroughly. For the best results, please do not allow the water to pool on the flooring when mopping because it will cause the wood to streak and warp.
Click here to view Pine-Sol on Amazon.
How Often Should You Sweep Hardwood Floors?
Sweeping daily is recommended to keep the hardwood floors in good shape. Consider using a microfiber mop instead of a traditional broom because it will glide over the flooring easily and remove more dust.
Also, vacuuming once per week is important to remove all the debris and dust particles the broom or microfiber mop left behind.
How Often Should You Clean Hardwood Floors?
Please note that every household will have slightly different traffic patterns and cleaning requirements. However, the average frequency recommended to clean hardwood floors with a hardwood floor cleaner is once a month or every couple of months.
What Is The Most Effective Way To Clean Hardwood Floors?
Double-check your hardwood flooring manufacturer's instructions or website for any brand-specific recommendations to take the best care of your hardwood flooring possible. Otherwise, follow the general guidelines below for essential and effective steps to clean your hardwood floors thoroughly.
- Start by sweeping and vacuuming the floor to remove all dust and debris.
- Use a hardwood floor dust mop to remove any dust particles left behind from vacuuming and sweeping.
- Prepare a bucket with warm water and measure the floor cleaner according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Be sure to wring the majority of the water out of the mop. You want to avoid having water pool on the floor because it can cause discoloration and warping over time.
- Dry the floor with a dry towel or dry mop head.
- Turn on a ceiling fan to circulate the air or set a fan on a chair or stool to promote air circulation.
- Empty the mop bucket and wring out the mop head.
Wrapping Up!
In this article, we discussed why using rubbing alcohol on hardwood flooring is not advisable. Also, we covered a few safety tips to remember the next time you are using rubbing alcohol, how often to routinely clean hardwood floors, and the benefits of choosing cleaners formulated for hardwood floors.
Please check out these helpful posts for more information regarding maintaining the floors in your home.
Pros & Cons Of Acacia Hardwood Flooring [Considerations For Homeowners]
How To Replace Hardwood Floor Planks – All You Need To Know!
Mahogany: For Decks Or Floors [Pros, Cons, & Considerations For Homeowners]