At Hoff Parquet, we understand that investing in high-quality wood flooring is not just about visual appeal, but also about long-term performance. Oiled and hardwaxed wood floors offer a rich, natural look that enhances with age—provided they are properly maintained.
This guide outlines specific aftercare and maintenance instructions to help preserve the natural beauty and longevity of your oiled or hardwaxed wooden floors.
Understanding Oiled and Hardwaxed Finishes
Unlike lacquered finishes that sit on top of the surface, oil and hardwax oil penetrate the wood fibres and enhance its organic structure. This allows the floor to breathe, increases repairability, and provides a soft, natural aesthetic. These finishes also allow for localised maintenance without needing to refinish the entire floor.
While robust and beautiful, these finishes require regular care and appropriate cleaning methods to perform at their best.
Daily and Routine Cleaning
To prevent dust and abrasive particles from scratching the surface, a consistent cleaning routine is essential.
Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning should be the first line of defence. Use a soft-bristled broom, microfibre mop or a vacuum cleaner fitted with a floor-brush attachment specifically designed for wood flooring. Avoid using rotating-brush vacuum heads as they can cause micro-scratches and damage the finish over time.
Damp Cleaning
For deeper cleaning, use a well-wrung, slightly damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for oiled and hardwaxed wood floors. Never use excessive water or allow moisture to pool on the surface, as standing water may cause swelling or cupping of the boards.
We recommend Hoff Parquet’s Wood Floor Cleaner – a biodegradable, non-aggressive product designed to clean without removing protective oils from the surface.
Avoid generic supermarket cleaners, steam mops, or vinegar-based solutions, as they may degrade the finish or cause discolouration.
Periodic Maintenance and Re-Oiling
The wear layer of an oiled or hardwaxed floor can be renewed with the application of a maintenance oil or wax refresher. This not only revives the surface sheen but also reintroduces protective elements into the wood.
Frequency of Maintenance
Maintenance frequency depends on the level of foot traffic. For a domestic household, applying a maintenance oil every 8 to 12 months is typically sufficient. In commercial or high-traffic environments, maintenance may be required more frequently—every 3 to 6 months.
Always clean the floor thoroughly before applying any maintenance product. Use a dedicated maintenance oil such as Ciranova Maintenance Oil or Osmo Maintenance Oil for oiled floors. For hardwaxed finishes, Hoff Parquet’s Wax Refresher offers excellent revitalisation while preserving the matte finish.
Spot Repairs and Surface Restoration
One of the key benefits of oiled wood flooring is its reparability. If you notice small scratches, scuffs, or dull patches, these can often be corrected without re-sanding the entire floor.
Lightly sand the affected area using fine-grade sandpaper, then reapply the original oil or hardwax finish. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the area is clean and dry before treatment. With correct application, repairs blend seamlessly with the surrounding surface.
Spill Management and Stain Prevention
Spills should be dealt with immediately. Blot liquids with an absorbent cloth and clean the area with a damp cloth and recommended wood floor cleaner. Never allow liquids—especially wine, coffee, or oils—to remain on the surface for long, as they may cause permanent stains.
To prevent damage, avoid dragging heavy furniture or wearing stiletto heels on wood flooring. Sharp or concentrated pressure can puncture or dent even the hardest of wood species.
Preventative Measures
A well-thought-out preventative care routine can significantly reduce wear and extend the life of your wood flooring.
Use of DoormatsInstall high-quality doormats at all external entrances to trap moisture, grit, and dirt before it reaches your wood floors. We recommend a combination of coarse bristle external mats and softer interior mats. Mats should be cleaned regularly to remain effective.
Felt Pads for FurnitureAttach felt pads or floor protectors to the legs of all furniture, especially chairs and tables that are regularly moved. Replace pads as they become worn or dirty, as debris caught in the felt can act like sandpaper. For particularly heavy furniture, consider using larger surface protectors or casters specifically made for use on timber flooring.
Rugs and Runners
Use rugs in high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, or under dining tables. Ensure the backing of rugs is non-rubber and breathable. Avoid plastic or rubber mats, as these may trap moisture underneath and cause staining or mould development.
Environmental Conditions
Wood is a living, breathing material that reacts to its environment. Indoor humidity should be kept between 40% and 60% to prevent the boards from expanding or contracting excessively.
In the winter months, dry indoor air from central heating can cause shrinkage and gaps between boards. The use of a humidifier can help stabilise the air moisture content. Conversely, excessive humidity in summer may lead to minor expansion or cupping.
Long-Term Maintenance and Renovation
After several years of use, your floor may benefit from a more intensive maintenance cycle.
This may include deep cleaning with an intensive cleaner, followed by the application of maintenance oil. For severely worn areas, the floor may need light sanding and full re-oiling.
At Hoff Parquet, we offer professional deep maintenance and restoration services. Our team uses specialist equipment and products to revive your wood floors without compromising their structure or character.
Expert Advice and Support
If you are unsure which products to use or how to approach a specific maintenance issue, our team at Hoff Parquet is here to help. We offer guidance on product selection, cleaning methods, and scheduled maintenance plans for both residential and commercial clients.
For more information or assistance, please contact us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 (0)131 385 7779
This guide outlines specific aftercare and maintenance instructions to help preserve the natural beauty and longevity of your oiled or hardwaxed wooden floors.
Understanding Oiled and Hardwaxed Finishes
Unlike lacquered finishes that sit on top of the surface, oil and hardwax oil penetrate the wood fibres and enhance its organic structure. This allows the floor to breathe, increases repairability, and provides a soft, natural aesthetic. These finishes also allow for localised maintenance without needing to refinish the entire floor.
While robust and beautiful, these finishes require regular care and appropriate cleaning methods to perform at their best.
Daily and Routine Cleaning
To prevent dust and abrasive particles from scratching the surface, a consistent cleaning routine is essential.
Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning should be the first line of defence. Use a soft-bristled broom, microfibre mop or a vacuum cleaner fitted with a floor-brush attachment specifically designed for wood flooring. Avoid using rotating-brush vacuum heads as they can cause micro-scratches and damage the finish over time.
Damp Cleaning
For deeper cleaning, use a well-wrung, slightly damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for oiled and hardwaxed wood floors. Never use excessive water or allow moisture to pool on the surface, as standing water may cause swelling or cupping of the boards.
We recommend Hoff Parquet’s Wood Floor Cleaner – a biodegradable, non-aggressive product designed to clean without removing protective oils from the surface.
Avoid generic supermarket cleaners, steam mops, or vinegar-based solutions, as they may degrade the finish or cause discolouration.
Periodic Maintenance and Re-Oiling
The wear layer of an oiled or hardwaxed floor can be renewed with the application of a maintenance oil or wax refresher. This not only revives the surface sheen but also reintroduces protective elements into the wood.
Frequency of Maintenance
Maintenance frequency depends on the level of foot traffic. For a domestic household, applying a maintenance oil every 8 to 12 months is typically sufficient. In commercial or high-traffic environments, maintenance may be required more frequently—every 3 to 6 months.
Always clean the floor thoroughly before applying any maintenance product. Use a dedicated maintenance oil such as Ciranova Maintenance Oil or Osmo Maintenance Oil for oiled floors. For hardwaxed finishes, Hoff Parquet’s Wax Refresher offers excellent revitalisation while preserving the matte finish.
Spot Repairs and Surface Restoration
One of the key benefits of oiled wood flooring is its reparability. If you notice small scratches, scuffs, or dull patches, these can often be corrected without re-sanding the entire floor.
Lightly sand the affected area using fine-grade sandpaper, then reapply the original oil or hardwax finish. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the area is clean and dry before treatment. With correct application, repairs blend seamlessly with the surrounding surface.
Spill Management and Stain Prevention
Spills should be dealt with immediately. Blot liquids with an absorbent cloth and clean the area with a damp cloth and recommended wood floor cleaner. Never allow liquids—especially wine, coffee, or oils—to remain on the surface for long, as they may cause permanent stains.
To prevent damage, avoid dragging heavy furniture or wearing stiletto heels on wood flooring. Sharp or concentrated pressure can puncture or dent even the hardest of wood species.
Preventative Measures
A well-thought-out preventative care routine can significantly reduce wear and extend the life of your wood flooring.
Use of DoormatsInstall high-quality doormats at all external entrances to trap moisture, grit, and dirt before it reaches your wood floors. We recommend a combination of coarse bristle external mats and softer interior mats. Mats should be cleaned regularly to remain effective.
Felt Pads for FurnitureAttach felt pads or floor protectors to the legs of all furniture, especially chairs and tables that are regularly moved. Replace pads as they become worn or dirty, as debris caught in the felt can act like sandpaper. For particularly heavy furniture, consider using larger surface protectors or casters specifically made for use on timber flooring.
Rugs and Runners
Use rugs in high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, or under dining tables. Ensure the backing of rugs is non-rubber and breathable. Avoid plastic or rubber mats, as these may trap moisture underneath and cause staining or mould development.
Environmental Conditions
Wood is a living, breathing material that reacts to its environment. Indoor humidity should be kept between 40% and 60% to prevent the boards from expanding or contracting excessively.
In the winter months, dry indoor air from central heating can cause shrinkage and gaps between boards. The use of a humidifier can help stabilise the air moisture content. Conversely, excessive humidity in summer may lead to minor expansion or cupping.
Long-Term Maintenance and Renovation
After several years of use, your floor may benefit from a more intensive maintenance cycle.
This may include deep cleaning with an intensive cleaner, followed by the application of maintenance oil. For severely worn areas, the floor may need light sanding and full re-oiling.
At Hoff Parquet, we offer professional deep maintenance and restoration services. Our team uses specialist equipment and products to revive your wood floors without compromising their structure or character.
Expert Advice and Support
If you are unsure which products to use or how to approach a specific maintenance issue, our team at Hoff Parquet is here to help. We offer guidance on product selection, cleaning methods, and scheduled maintenance plans for both residential and commercial clients.
For more information or assistance, please contact us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 (0)131 385 7779
