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Best Homemade Hardwood Floor Cleaner (2024 Update)

When it comes to keeping your hardwood floors looking their best, using the right floor cleaner is key. With so many options on the market ranging from store-bought cleaners to DIY solutions, how do you know which is the best homemade hardwood floor cleaner for your needs?

Before choosing a cleaner, consider factors like the finish of your floors, how dirty they tend to get, and whether you want an all-purpose option or specialty cleaner. Do you need something gentle enough for daily cleaning? Or a heavy duty cleaner for periodic deep cleaning? Do you want to avoid harsh chemicals or make use of natural ingredients? Keeping these factors in mind will help you select the ideal homemade cleaner.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed when gazing at dull, dirty hardwood? Are you searching for ways to make your floors shine without breaking the bank? Wouldn’t it feel amazing to get your floors looking brand new with minimal effort? Discover how to whip up the perfect homemade hardwood floor cleaner to renew and revitalize your floors today!

10 Best Homemade Hardwood Floor Cleaner

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for cleaning and shining hardwood floors, restoring their natural shine and protecting against daily wear and tear.
2
Ideal for cleaning, polishing, and protecting hardwood surfaces such as floors, furniture, and cabinets.
3
The product is ideal for sanitizing hard floors.
4
The product is ideal for cleaning hardwood floors using a specific type of mop.
5
Method is ideal for cutting grass efficiently and quickly, with precise control and maneuverability, in residential and commercial areas.
6
It is ideal for rejuvenating and restoring the appearance of all types of floors, including hardwood, without the need for a bucket.
7
Bona Hard-Surface is ideal for cleaning and maintaining hard surfaces such as tile, laminate, and vinyl floors.
8
The product is ideal for protecting floors and providing a non-slip surface.
9
Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface is ideal for cleaning various surfaces such as floors, countertops, and walls in homes and offices.
10
This product is ideal for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces without the need for rinsing.
Ideal for cleaning and shining hardwood floors, restoring their natural shine and protecting against daily wear and tear.
Ideal for cleaning, polishing, and protecting hardwood surfaces such as floors, furniture, and cabinets.
The product is ideal for sanitizing hard floors.
The product is ideal for cleaning hardwood floors using a specific type of mop.
Method is ideal for cutting grass efficiently and quickly, with precise control and maneuverability, in residential and commercial areas.
It is ideal for rejuvenating and restoring the appearance of all types of floors, including hardwood, without the need for a bucket.
Bona Hard-Surface is ideal for cleaning and maintaining hard surfaces such as tile, laminate, and vinyl floors.
The product is ideal for protecting floors and providing a non-slip surface.
Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface is ideal for cleaning various surfaces such as floors, countertops, and walls in homes and offices.
This product is ideal for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces without the need for rinsing.

1. Quick Shine Hardwood

This Quick Shine Floor Cleaner is an excellent solution for those who want an easy to use, ready to use floor cleaner. The formula is designed to work perfectly with the Quick Shine Spray Mop and other floor cleaning machines, making it a versatile cleaning solution.

The premium floor care offered by Quick Shine Floor Cleaners is second to none. The plant-based cleaning formula is enhanced with the power of natural baking soda, which makes it an effective dirt dissolver. The formula is gentle yet powerful, making it ideal for cleaning floors of all types.

This cleaner is perfect for those who want to clean and refresh their floors without using harsh alkalis or ammonia. The formula is specially designed to clean dirt, grease, and scuff marks with ease, leaving your floors looking new and refreshed.

The Quick Shine Floor Cleaner is formulated to be streak-free and haze-free, making it an excellent choice for cleaning hardwood floor surfaces. The formula is specially designed to leave no build-up or sticky residue, ensuring that your floors look their best.

This cleaner is a safer choice for those who are concerned about the safety of their kids, pets, and the environment. It is recognized by the U.S. EPA Safer Choice Program and is free from alcohol, ammonia, formaldehyde, paraben, and gluten.

2. Weiman Hardwood

This wood floor cleaner is a versatile solution that can be used on any finished hardwood surface, providing a rejuvenated shine without leaving any sticky residue. Its plant-based ingredients make it safe for kids and pets to walk on after the solution has dried, ensuring that your home remains a safe and healthy environment for all.

Cleaning your wood floors can be a hassle, but this cleaner makes it simple. It offers a one-step solution that cleans the surface while also extending the life of your wood floors. With just one easy step, you can have a cleaner, shinier, and more durable wood floor.

This wood floor cleaner is suitable for use on any finished hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl, and laminate floors, providing a versatile cleaning solution for all your flooring needs. And with its value size of 1 gallon, you can clean multiple rooms or floors without worrying about running out of cleaner.

3. Bissell Hard Floor Sanitize Formula, 80 Oz, 2504l, 80 Fl Oz

The BISSELL CrossWave and SpinWave machines are a great investment for anyone with sealed hard floors. The machines are designed to remove tough pet messes, dirt, grime, and mud from these floors. To enhance the cleaning power of these machines, the BISSELL company has formulated a cleaning solution that is safe to use on sealed hard floors, including wood, ceramic, vinyl, terrazzo, and other floors.

This cleaning solution is specially designed for use with all BISSELL CrossWave and SpinWave machines. It is formulated to clean and sanitize floors, eliminating up to 99.9% of germs and bacteria. The cleaning solution is tough on dirt and grime, yet gentle on hard floors, leaving them clean and safe for children and pets.

When you purchase a BISSELL product, you're not just investing in a cleaning machine, you're also supporting a great cause. The BISSELL company is proud to support the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets. With every BISSELL purchase, you're helping to make a difference in the lives of animals in need.

4. Vanduck Microfiber Mop Pads For Hardwood Floors.

The VanDuck Microfiber Mop Pads are designed to provide a superior cleaning experience for your hardwood, stone, tile, and laminate floors. These mop pads are compatible with the Bona Mop, making them a great replacement option for your cleaning needs.

These microfiber mop pads are ideal for wet and dry mopping, ensuring that your floors are thoroughly cleaned without leaving any residue or streaks. The microfiber material used in the pads is highly absorbent and is perfect for removing dirt, dust, and other debris from your floors.

One of the best features of the VanDuck Microfiber Mop Pads is their machine-washable and reusable design. This means that you can clean the pads after use, and they will be ready to use again the next time you need them. This feature makes these mop pads a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly option for your cleaning needs.

The VanDuck Microfiber Mop Pads are compatible with the Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner, making them an ideal replacement option for your cleaning routine. The pads are also compatible with the Bona Spray Mop, with a pad size of 18 1/4 inches x 5 1/4 inches, and a replacement pad size of 4 inches x 15 inches.

Lastly, the quality of the material used in the VanDuck Microfiber Mop Pads is highly regarded by the professional cleaning industry. This indicates that these mop pads are made using high-quality materials that can withstand heavy use and frequent washing without losing their effectiveness.

5. Method

This hardwood floor cleaner refill bottle is perfect for those who want to keep their floors clean and shiny without any hassle. The refill bottle contains 68 ounces of cleaning solution that can be used to refill your method wood floor cleaner bottle 2.72 times, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.

The one-step clean plus gleam formula allows you to clean and shine your sealed hardwood and laminate floors without the need for rinsing. This means you can achieve a spotless finish in no time, leaving your floors looking as good as new.

The product is cruelty-free and has been tested by people, not on animals, ensuring that no animals were harmed during the development of the product. The bottle, minus the lid, is made of 100% recycled plastic (PCR), making it an environmentally friendly choice.

The delightful almond fragrance is rich and nutty, making the cleaning experience more pleasant and enjoyable. You can now easily clean your floors while enjoying the sweet scent of almonds.

This hardwood floor cleaner refill bottle is a testament to the company's commitment to doing business with a purpose. The product is not only effective in keeping your floors clean and shiny, but it also supports the company's mission of promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.

6. Rejuvenate High Performance All-Floors And Hardwood No Bucket Needed

The ResidueFree High Performance All Floors Cleaner is the perfect solution for getting rid of the toughest dirt and grime on all floor types. This product is specially formulated with a PH balanced formula and shine booster technology to ensure that it won't harm your floors finish while neutralizing contaminates, removing old wax buildup and stripping away residue.

With this all-in-one cleaner, there is no need for a mop bucket. Simply pour, spray or use the convenient Click n Clean spray mop system to clean laminate, tile, vinyl, linoleum and hardwood floors without leaving behind a dulling shine.

The ResidueFree High Performance All Floors Cleaner is safe to use as an everyday cleaner, providing a deep clean without compromising the integrity of your floors. The product comes with a convenient plastic spout for easy pouring and spraying.

In addition to its cleaning power, this cleaner is also eco-friendly. It is free of harsh chemicals and is safe for use around children and pets.

7. Bona Hard-Surface

Introducing the MULTI-SURFACE FLOOR CLEANING MOP PADS, a pack of 12 wet mopping disposable cleaning pads that are perfect for quick and effective cleaning of stone, tile, laminate, and vinyl floors. These pads are designed to be used with stick mops for a hassle-free cleaning experience.

The EXTRA-LARGE size of these wet mop pads allows for 40% faster clean-up than the leading competitor when used with a Bona mop head. This means you can clean up more efficiently and quickly, saving you time and energy.

The WATER-BASED cleaning formula used in these pads dries fast, leaving behind no residue. It is also safe for people, pets, and the planet. These pads meet the U.S. EPA product standards, are Safer Choice Certified, and GREENGUARD GOLD certified with very low VOC emissions. You can rest assured that you are using a product that is safe for your family and the environment.

These MOP PADS are formulated for multi-surface hard floors like linoleum, stone, terrazzo, vinyl, sealed porous marble, laminate, vinyl LVT/LVP, and no-wax sealed tile (ceramic, Mexican Saltillo, quarry). This means that you can use them on a variety of surfaces in your home for a truly versatile cleaning experience.

Each pack includes 12 wet mop refill pads that are compatible with the Bona Family of Mops and most competitive stick mops. The packaging may vary, but the quality of these pads remains consistent.

8. Enyur Floor

Keeping your floors clean and looking like new has never been easier with Enyur's water-soluble solid floor cleaning sheets. These sheets are perfect for quickly cleaning up dirt, food, grease, and grime without leaving any wet or sticky residue behind. This means no build-up over time that can dull or damage the floor's finish, allowing you to reveal the floor's shine and beauty.

Enyur's multi-surface concentrated floor cleaning sheets are not only great for mopping, but they can also be used for spraying mops and cleaning robots. Simply place the sheets into the water container in the machine and let it do the work for you. The mop cloth on the machine does not need to be washed by hand, making cleaning even more convenient.

To use, dilute just a 1/2 load solution per 2 gallons of multi-surface cleaner. These sheets are safe for use on hardwood, tile, marble, laminate floors, and most sealed floors. Plus, Enyur's plant-based formula leaves a neutral scent, making it gentle for the skin and surfaces, while being friendly for people, pets, and the planet.

With Enyur's ready-to-use solution, there's no need to measure or mix anything. Simply grab a sheet and start cleaning. The best part? No mess. Enyur's cleaning sheets are light and space-saving, making them the perfect solution for RVs and small spaces.

9. Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface

Introducing the Hardworking Multi Surface Concentrate, the all-purpose cleaner that is tough on dirt and grime. This biodegradable formula is specially designed for all non-porous multi-surfaces, making it a versatile cleaning solution for your entire home.

The Garden-inspired Lemon Verbena scent provides a light, refreshingly mild citrus aroma that is sure to leave your home smelling fresh and clean. Whether you need a hardwood floor cleaner, tile cleaner, or countertop cleaner, this product delivers superior cleaning performance without any harsh chemicals or toxic fumes.

Mrs. Meyer's products are known for their cruelty-free formulas and are Leaping Bunny certified, ensuring that no animals were harmed during the production process. The Hardworking Multi Surface Concentrate is no exception, providing a safe and effective cleaning solution that is gentle on the environment and your family.

This multi-purpose cleaner concentrate can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, and other rooms throughout the house, making it a convenient and practical cleaning solution for busy households. With its biodegradable formula and powerful cleaning action, the Hardworking Multi Surface Concentrate is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an effective and eco-friendly cleaning solution.

10. Odoban Professional Series Neutral Ph No Rinse

The No Rinse Neutral pH Floor Cleaner is an effective solution for cleaning hard floors and other surfaces, without the use of harsh chemicals. Formulated with a naturally derived surfactant system, this cleaner offers powerful cleaning power that can lift away residue and stench from soils, leaving surfaces looking brand new.

This cleaner is easy to use and comes in a no-rinse formula. Simply dilute the product as needed, and mop the floor with a clean, damp mop. For deep soil, reapply as needed, or increase the dilution ratio for extreme cleaning. This cleaner can be applied using a mop or automatic scrubber, making it a versatile solution for a variety of cleaning applications.

The No Rinse Neutral pH Floor Cleaner is also multi-use and can be used on vinyl, tile, sealed concrete, and sealed wood floors. It should be noted, however, that this cleaner is not recommended for use on marble floors.

Each gallon of this cleaner can make up to 128 gallons of cleaning solution, making it a cost-effective choice for large cleaning jobs. This set of 4 gallons can make up to 512 gallons of solution in total, allowing for plenty of use in both commercial and residential settings.

Best Homemade Hardwood Floor Cleaner FAQs

Are there any special tools or equipment needed for using a homemade hardwood floor cleaner?

No, there are no special tools or equipment needed for using a homemade hardwood floor cleaner. Most homemade hardwood floor cleaners can be made using ingredients that are readily available in most homes, such as white vinegar, water, and essential oils. However, it is important to note that when using a homemade hardwood floor cleaner, it is recommended to use a soft microfiber mop or cloth to avoid scratching the hardwood floor surface. Additionally, it is important to thoroughly wring out the mop or cloth to prevent excess water from damaging the hardwood floor. Overall, using a homemade hardwood floor cleaner is an easy and cost-effective way to maintain the cleanliness and shine of hardwood floors without the need for special equipment or tools.

Can I add essential oils to my homemade hardwood floor cleaner for a fresh scent?

Yes, you can definitely add essential oils to your homemade hardwood floor cleaner for a fresh scent. Essential oils are a great natural way to add fragrance to your cleaning solution without using artificial scents that can be harmful to your health. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all essential oils are safe for use on hardwood floors, so it's important to do your research before adding any oils to your cleaner. Some essential oils, like lemon, orange, and grapefruit, can actually damage hardwood floors, so it's best to stick with oils like lavender, peppermint, or tea tree oil, which are safe for use on wood surfaces. When adding essential oils to your cleaner, be sure to use only a few drops at a time, as they are highly concentrated and can be overpowering if used in excess. Finally, make sure to test your cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of your floor before using it on the entire surface to ensure that it doesn't cause any damage or discoloration.

Can I use vinegar as a primary ingredient in my homemade hardwood floor cleaner?

Yes, you can use vinegar as a primary ingredient in your homemade hardwood floor cleaner. Vinegar is a natural and eco-friendly cleaning agent that can effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains from hardwood floors. However, it is important to dilute the vinegar with water before using it as a cleaner, as undiluted vinegar can damage the finish of your hardwood floors. A recommended ratio is to mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water. You can also add a few drops of essential oils such as lemon or lavender to give your cleaner a pleasant scent. When using the cleaner, make sure to wring out your mop or cloth well to avoid excess water on the hardwood floors, which can cause damage. Additionally, it is important to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of your hardwood floors before using it on the entire floor to ensure that it does not cause any damage or discoloration.

How can I make a natural hardwood floor cleaner without harsh chemicals?

There are several ways to make a natural hardwood floor cleaner without using harsh chemicals. The first method is to mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the floor, and then wipe it up with a microfiber cloth or mop. The acid in the vinegar helps to dissolve dirt and grime, while the water helps to dilute the vinegar and prevent damage to the hardwood.

Another method is to mix ¼ cup of olive oil with ¼ cup of white vinegar and 10 drops of essential oil (such as lemon or lavender) in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle well, and then spray the solution onto the floor. Use a microfiber cloth or mop to distribute the solution evenly over the floor, and then buff the floor with a dry cloth to remove any excess oil.

Lastly, you can make a natural hardwood floor cleaner by mixing 1 cup of warm water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil-based soap (such as castile soap) in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle well, and then spray the solution onto the floor. Use a microfiber cloth or mop to clean the floor, and then rinse with warm water and dry with a clean cloth.

How does a homemade hardwood floor cleaner compare to store-bought cleaners in terms of effectiveness and cost?

Homemade hardwood floor cleaners are an excellent alternative to store-bought cleaners. They are just as effective in cleaning your hardwood floors, and they are often more affordable. Homemade cleaners are made from natural ingredients that are safe for your floors and your family. They do not contain harsh chemicals that can damage your floors or cause health problems.

One popular homemade hardwood floor cleaner is a mixture of vinegar and water. The acid in vinegar is effective in removing dirt and grime from your floors, leaving them clean and shiny. Another popular option is a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice, which not only cleans your floors but also gives them a pleasant scent.

On the other hand, store-bought cleaners are often more expensive and contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. While they may be effective in cleaning your floors, they can also strip away the protective coating on your floors, causing them to age prematurely.

In conclusion, homemade hardwood floor cleaners are a great alternative to store-bought cleaners in terms of effectiveness and cost. They are safer, more affordable, and just as effective in cleaning your floors without causing any harm.

How long will a homemade hardwood floor cleaner last before needing to be remade?

The longevity of a homemade hardwood floor cleaner largely depends on the ingredients used and the frequency of usage. If the cleaner is made with natural and non-toxic ingredients such as vinegar, water, and essential oils, it can last for a few weeks to a month or more. However, if the cleaner contains harsh chemicals or additives, it may lose its effectiveness sooner and need to be remade more frequently.

It's important to note that using too much cleaner or applying too frequently can also cause buildup on hardwood floors, making them appear dull and potentially damaging the finish. Therefore, it's recommended to only use the cleaner as needed and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for usage and dilution ratios.

Ultimately, the best way to determine when a homemade hardwood floor cleaner needs to be remade is by monitoring its effectiveness and the appearance of the floors. If the floors begin to look dull or dirty despite regular cleaning, it may be time to mix up a fresh batch of cleaner.

How often should I use a homemade hardwood floor cleaner on my floors?

The frequency at which you should use a homemade hardwood floor cleaner on your floors depends on several factors, including the amount of foot traffic your floors receive, the type of hardwood flooring you have, and your personal cleaning preferences. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended that you clean your hardwood floors at least once a week to maintain their shine and beauty. However, if your floors see heavy foot traffic or are exposed to spills and stains more frequently, you may need to clean them more often.

When using a homemade hardwood floor cleaner, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and use a gentle touch to avoid damaging the floors. Also, be mindful of the ingredients in the cleaner you choose, as some can be harsh and potentially damaging to the floors over time. Ultimately, the best approach is to keep a close eye on your floors and clean them as needed to keep them looking their best.

What are some tips for using a homemade hardwood floor cleaner on high traffic areas?

Maintaining a clean hardwood floor in high traffic areas can be challenging, but with the right homemade cleaner, it is possible to achieve a spotless finish. Here are some tips for using a homemade hardwood floor cleaner on high traffic areas:

1. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any loose dirt or debris before applying the cleaner.

2. Mix your homemade cleaner using warm water and a small amount of dish soap or vinegar. Avoid using too much soap as it can leave a residue on the floor.

3. Apply the cleaner to the floor using a microfiber mop or a soft cloth. Avoid using a soaking wet mop as excess water can damage the wood.

4. Work in small sections, applying the cleaner in the direction of the grain. This will help to avoid streaks and ensure an even finish.

5. Rinse the mop or cloth frequently to avoid spreading dirt or residue.

6. Once you have finished cleaning, allow the floor to air dry or dry it with a clean, dry cloth.

By following these tips, you can achieve a clean and polished hardwood floor in high traffic areas using a homemade cleaner.

What are the most effective ingredients for a homemade hardwood floor cleaner?

Cleaning hardwood floors can be a daunting task, but having the right cleaner can make all the difference. When it comes to homemade hardwood floor cleaners, there are a few key ingredients that are both effective and safe for your floors.

One of the most popular ingredients for a homemade hardwood floor cleaner is vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and can help to remove dirt and grime from your floors without damaging the finish. Another effective ingredient is baking soda. Baking soda can help to remove stubborn stains and odors from your floors.

Essential oils can also be added to homemade hardwood floor cleaners for a fresh scent and added cleaning power. Lemon, lavender, and tea tree oil are all great options. Additionally, using warm water and a microfiber mop can help to clean your hardwood floors without leaving streaks or damage to the finish.

Overall, the most effective ingredients for a homemade hardwood floor cleaner are vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, warm water, and a microfiber mop. Using these ingredients together can help to keep your hardwood floors clean and looking their best.

What is the best homemade hardwood floor cleaner recipe for removing tough stains?

One effective homemade hardwood floor cleaner recipe for removing tough stains is to mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution should be sprayed directly onto the stain and allowed to sit for a few minutes. Then, using a clean cloth, gently scrub the stain until it lifts. For particularly tough stains, you can add a few drops of dish soap or essential oils such as lemon or tea tree oil to the mixture for added cleaning power. It's important to note that excessive moisture can damage hardwood floors, so be sure to only use a damp cloth and avoid soaking the area with the cleaning solution. Additionally, it's always a good idea to test the solution in a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire stain to ensure that it doesn't cause any discoloration or damage to the wood.

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