Olga

Hardwood floors can last for generations if they're cared for properly.

Unlike tile or laminate, you want to clean wood only when you really need to.

For regular maintenance, vacuum floors every day or two or use a floor duster.

When mopping a polyurethaned hardwood floor, you can clean the floors with water or a combination of 1 cup vinegar with 1 gallon warm (not hot) water.

You can also use a wood-cleaning solution mixed to the manufacturer's instructions or add a few drops of dishwashing liquid to a bucket of warm water.

Lightly dampen the mop and wipe it back and forth going with the grain of the wood. Do not soak the floors with water because that can damage the wood. Wipe up any excess standing water. Mop yourself out of the room so the room can dry completely before being walked on.

Once the floor looks completely dry, buff it in a circular motion with a soft cloth.