How to Clean Sticky Hardwood Floors

Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution

Purchase a cleaner formulated for hardwood floors. In many instances, the best way to clean sticky hardwood floors is with a cleaning solution that is formulated specifically for wood floors. Choose a cleaner with a label that clearly states the product is formulated for the type of hardwood floor you are cleaning.

Try using dish soap. Mild dish soap will help remove sticky residues from hardwood floors. Opt for a pH neutral soap that is vegetable based. Mix ⁄4 cup (59 ml) of dish soap in a bucket of warm water to create an effective cleaning solution.

Use vinegar cautiously. Vinegar may prematurely dull or damage hardwood floors. It can, however, be an effective way to clean sticky floors. Try mixing ⁄2 cup (120 ml) of white vinegar with 1 gallon (3.8 L) of warm water. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to scrub the sticky area.

Cleaning Sticky Floors

Prepare the cleaning solution. Prepare the cleaning solution of your choice in a bucket that is large enough for a mop. Follow any directions printed on the cleaning solution label.

Sweep the floors. Before you attempt to remove sticky residue, you should make sure you remove all loose debris from the area. Use a broom to gently sweep the entire surface of the hardwood floor.

Mop the floors with the cleaning solution. Dip your mop in the cleaning solution and then wring the mop out completely. Mop the floor in the same direction as the grain of the wood.

Change the cleaning solution when it becomes dirty. As you are cleaning your sticky hardwood floors, the cleaning solution may become dirty. If it starts looking gray, dump the solution out and prepare a fresh batch to finish mopping your floors.

Rinse by mopping with clean water. Once you have mopped your floors with a cleaning solution, you will need to rinse them to prevent sticky residue from clouding your floors. Fill the bucket with fresh, clean water. Dip the mop in the water, wring out completely, and mop the floors.

Dry with a soft, non-abrasive cloth. Drying and buffing the floors with a soft cloth removes sticky residue that can be left from mopping. Use a cloth made from non-abrasive fiber, like flannel or microfiber, to buff the floor with gentle circular motions.