Everyday Habits That Keep Your Floors Looking New in Nashua
Your floors are one of the hardest-working parts of your home. They handle footsteps, furniture, pets, and the occasional spill without complaint. But over time, even the most durable surfaces can start to show signs of wear. Whether you have luxury vinyl, engineered hardwood, tile, or laminate from FloorMe! in Nashua, a few simple habits can help your floors stay beautiful for years. Here’s how to protect your investment and keep your home looking its best.
Add Furniture Pads (and Use the Right Kind)
One of the quickest ways floors get scratched is from moving furniture, even slightly. Chairs, tables, and barstools are especially common offenders. Adding felt furniture pads to the bottom of legs creates a protective barrier that prevents scuffs and dents. Look for heavy-duty felt pads that won’t fall off easily, and avoid rubber pads on hardwood since they can sometimes leave marks over time.
It’s also smart to check your pads every few months. Dirt and grit can build up underneath, turning them into sandpaper without you realizing it. A quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps them clean and effective.
Use Area Rugs and Runners for Everyday Protection
Area rugs and runners aren’t just for decoration—they’re one of the best defenses against daily wear. High-traffic spots like hallways, kitchens, and living room paths benefit from rugs that catch dirt before it hits your flooring. Under dining tables, rugs also help cushion chair movement and contain accidental spills.
For best results, pair rugs with a non-slip pad underneath to prevent sliding and add a little extra cushioning. Just make sure the pad is safe for your flooring type, especially if you have luxury vinyl or hardwood.
Maintain a Smart Cleaning Routine
Keeping your floors clean is about more than appearance—it prevents fine particles from scratching the surface. Regular dry dusting or vacuuming with a soft brush attachment removes grit before it causes damage. When mopping, stick with a neutral pH cleaner designed for your specific flooring. Harsh chemicals or vinegar-based products can dull the finish over time.
Avoid steam mops on hardwood or vinyl floors, as excessive heat and moisture can weaken seams and finishes. Instead, use a slightly damp microfiber mop for a gentle but thorough clean.
Pay Attention to Footwear and Pet Nails
A little awareness at the door goes a long way. High heels, cleats, and shoes with grit on the soles can cause scratches that are difficult to repair. Set up a shoe station by the entryway and encourage family and guests to take shoes off indoors.
Pets also play a role. Keeping nails trimmed helps prevent small surface marks that build up over time. For added protection, choose a scratch-resistant flooring option from FloorMe!, such as luxury vinyl plank, which is designed to handle busy households with pets.
Practice Simple Seasonal Care
New England’s seasons can be tough on floors. In winter, salt, sand, and melting snow can wreak havoc on surfaces. Keep a boot tray by the door and wipe pets’ paws before they come inside. During the summer, use window coverings to protect floors from strong sunlight that can fade finishes over time.
If your home tends to get dry in the winter or humid in the summer, maintaining balanced air quality helps your flooring stay stable. Engineered hardwood, for example, performs especially well because its layered construction resists environmental changes.
Clean Up Spills Right Away
Even waterproof floors benefit from quick action. Standing liquid can seep into joints and damage finishes if left too long. For sticky spills, use a damp cloth followed by a dry one to avoid moisture lingering on the surface. Keeping a small cleaning kit nearby—microfiber cloths, neutral cleaner, and paper towels—makes cleanup fast and easy.
Create an Entryway System
Your entryway is your first line of defense. A layered system with an outdoor doormat, an indoor rug, and a boot tray helps trap debris before it reaches your main floors. Brush-style mats are especially effective at catching grit from shoes.
For added peace of mind, make it a routine to sweep this area daily. Keeping the dirt at the door means cleaner floors throughout your home.
Keep Your Floors Looking Their Best
Protecting your floors doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about small habits that add up to big results. With the right care, your hardwood, vinyl, tile, or laminate from FloorMe! can stay beautiful for decades. For flooring advice, product recommendations, or help starting your next project, visit our Nashua showroom or request an estimate today.