The holiday season is here, bringing festive gatherings, twinkling lights, and the hustle and bustle of friends and family filling your home. While the holidays are all about spreading cheer, they can be tough on your floors. At Factory Flooring Liquidators, we know that keeping your floors beautiful and well-maintained during the busiest time of year can seem like a challenge. But with a few easy tips, you can protect your investment and ensure your floors shine as brightly as your holiday decorations.
Start with a Pre-Holiday Deep Clean
Give your floors a thorough clean before the festivities begin. Whether you have hardwood, tile, laminate, or carpet, starting with a clean slate makes it easier to manage holiday messes. For hardwood and laminate, use a gentle floor cleaner to remove dust and grime while protecting the surface. For carpets, consider a professional cleaning to lift stains and refresh fibers.
Use Rugs to Protect High-Traffic Areas
Rugs and runners not only add a cozy, festive touch to your décor but also help shield your floors from dirt, scratches, and wear. Place them in high-traffic areas like entryways, under the Christmas tree, and in dining areas. For added protection, use rug pads to prevent slipping and provide extra cushioning for your floors.
Be Aware of Holiday-Specific Hazards
Live Christmas trees are beautiful but can shed needles and sap that may damage your floors. Place a waterproof mat under the tree stand to catch spills, and sweep or vacuum regularly. Winter weather can bring snow, mud, and salt into your home, so position absorbent mats at entrances and ask guests to remove their shoes to prevent tracking debris inside.
Clean Up Spills Quickly
Holiday spills are bound to happen, but quick action can save your floors. For hardwood and laminate, wipe up liquids immediately to prevent stains or warping. Use a soft cloth to blot (not rub), and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. For carpets, use a mild detergent solution to gently blot spills, ensuring stains don’t set. Always spot-test cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area before use.
Take Preventative Measures
Adding felt pads to the legs of your furniture helps prevent scratches, especially if you’re rearranging for holiday gatherings. If you have pets, trim their nails to reduce the risk of scratches on hardwood or laminate. Heating systems can dry out the air during winter, which may cause hardwood floors to shrink or crack—using a humidifier can help maintain the right moisture levels.
End the Season with Post-Holiday Care
Once the decorations come down, give your floors the attention they need. Sweep up pine needles, deep clean any lingering spills, and inspect for wear or damage. Applying a protective sealant to hardwood floors can restore their shine and durability, while carpets benefit from a professional cleaning to remove post-holiday dirt and stains.