Waxing and Polishing Guide by Maidsway

Wax is used to protect and maintain the aesthetic appeal of hardwood floors. Choose water-based finish waxes that are suitable for your floor and its finish. Follow the directions given by the wood manufacturer and on the finish label to safely guard your floor without making it dangerously slick. To avoid any accidents, install nonskid pads under all rugs and runners. The various types of floor wax are described below, facilitating your education on the topic.

Solid Paste Wax

Choose old-fashioned wax in a can for unvarnished hardwood floors, true linoleum, unfinished cork, and concrete. Do NOT use paste wax on no-wax floors, vinyl, or urethane-finished floors. Apply by hand for a long-lasting shine. Here’s how.

Moisten a soft lint-free cotton cloth (such as an old T-shirt) and wring it almost dry to prevent the cloth from absorbing too much wax.

Apply the wax lightly and evenly (per package instructions), working it into the surface.

If you prefer soft wax, use the liquid equivalent of paste wax.

As the waxed surface dries, it will appear cloudy. Buff to a shine with a clean towel, an electric polisher, or a terry cloth-covered sponge mop.

Liquid Wax or Oil

Use liquid wax or oil on unvarnished hardwood, linoleum, or unfinished cork. Follow label instructions. It is easier to apply than paste wax, but the finish doesn’t last as long. Do NOT use on no-wax floors, vinyl, or urethane-finished floors. Dampen a soft lint-free cloth, a mop, or the pad of an electric floor polisher to prevent the wax from soaking in. Apply polish evenly and lightly. As it dries, the solvent evaporates, leaving the polish. When dry, buff the floor with a clean towel, an electric polisher, or a sponge mop covered with a terry cloth towel.

Water-Base Silicone Polishes

Water-base silicone polishes can be used on all floors EXCEPT unsealed wood, cork, or linoleum. This is the only type of polish suitable for urethane-finished surfaces. Apply these long-lasting polishes in several thin coats rather than one heavy coat, which is difficult to dry.

To apply, dampen a clean mop head. Pour the polish onto the mop and pour some of the polish directly on the floor. Spread the polish evenly to avoid bubbles in the liquid. Allow the polish to dry, and buff the floor with a clean towel, an electric polisher, or a terry cloth-covered sponge mop.

Apply second and third coats to high-traffic areas, buffing after each coat dries. Avoid spattering polish onto baseboards or walls because it stains paint and wallcoverings.

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