When it comes to cleaning hardwood floors, there are two main options: hot or cold water. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand the differences before deciding which one is best for your floor. Hot water is very effective for cleaning, but it can also damage the floor if you're not careful. It can dissolve the shine of the floor finish over time and penetrate the wood much more easily than cold water.
On the other hand, cold water is less likely to damage the floor and conserves the shine of the floor. It also helps to eradicate germs and bacteria, and saves a lot of electricity. When it comes to choosing between hot or cold water, it ultimately depends on the type of floor material and how well you know how to clean that type of floor. Donna Smallin Kuper, author of Cleaning Plain & Simple, warned: some hardwood floor manufacturers recommend using a mop moistened with water only, and may even void the warranty for new floors that have been cleaned with any other cleaning solution.
If the recommended product is hard to find or expensive, and other floor cleaners contain ingredients that violate your floor's warranty, try soap and water. There are also general hardwood floor cleaners available if you don't know what type of wood your floor is made of. In conclusion, when it comes to cleaning hardwood floors, it's important to consider both hot and cold water. Hot water is very effective for cleaning but can damage the floor if you're not careful.
Cold water is less likely to damage the floor and conserves the shine of the floor. Ultimately, it depends on the type of floor material and how well you know how to clean that type of floor.
