Nothing beats the natural beauty of hardwood floors, especially when they’re gleaming in the summer sunlight pouring through your windows. But as summer fun ramps up in Richmond, it’s easy to overlook how seasonal habits can take a toll on your flooring.

At House of Carpet, we know hardwood is an investment worth protecting. Here are five summer maintenance tips to keep your floors in top shape.

1. Trap Dirt at the Door

Summer means more traffic, especially with kids, pets, and guests going in and out. Sand, small rocks, and debris get tracked in on shoes and paws, acting like sandpaper on your floors.

What to do:
Place mats at every entrance—and make sure they’re cleaned regularly. For extra protection, add a no-shoes policy inside the house.

2. Clean Up Spills Right Away

With icy drinks and drippy popsicles in the mix, spills are bound to happen. Liquids that sit too long can seep into the wood grain or damage the finish.

What to do:
Use a soft, slightly damp cloth (never soaking wet) to clean spills as soon as they happen. Avoid harsh cleaners—just a gentle hardwood-safe solution will do.

3. Use Furniture Pads for Move-Around Season

Rearranging furniture for summer gatherings or opening up space for indoor-outdoor flow? Even the smallest slide of a chair can leave behind scratches if you’re not careful.

What to do:
Install felt pads on the legs of all furniture. Check them often—especially on dining chairs that get a lot of movement.

4. Sweep Often, Mop Carefully

Light summer breezes bring pollen and fine dust inside, even if you keep the windows closed. These particles can settle in the grain of your floors and dull their appearance over time.

What to do:
Sweep with a soft-bristle broom or use a microfiber dust mop a few times a week. For mopping, stick with a barely damp mop and a hardwood-approved cleaner. Don’t overdo the water—it’s never hardwood’s friend.

5. Keep Sunlight in Check

While we’re not mentioning humidity, it’s still important to talk about sunlight. Direct rays can fade and discolor hardwood, especially lighter-toned species.

What to do:
Rotate rugs and furniture periodically to prevent uneven fading. Close blinds or curtains during peak sunlight hours to protect high-exposure areas.

Want More Flooring Tips from Local Experts?

Our team at House of Carpet has been helping Richmond homeowners care for their hardwood floors for years. From engineered to solid hardwood, we know what it takes to keep floors looking beautiful—season after season.

Explore more hardwood care tips here or stop by our showroom for personalized advice.

Protect Your Floors, Extend Their Life

Following these simple summer tips can help your hardwood floors stay beautiful and last longer. If you’re thinking about upgrading or replacing your current flooring, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to talk with a flooring expert or schedule a visit. Let’s make your home shine this season—and every season to come.