Our homes face ever-changing environmental conditions throughout the year. And just as we adapt our clothing for the seasons, adapting a floor care routine seasonally can also ensure our floors stay beautiful and functional for years to come.

 

Each season presents unique challenges that can affect the condition of your flooring, whether it is hardwood, tile, carpet, or vinyl. By understanding how to adjust your floor care routine according to seasonal changes, you can ensure your floors remain in top condition year-round. 

 

For example, summer’s scorching sun can significantly damage hardwood floors, drying them out and causing cracks. Increased humidity can also warp wood floors and make carpets musty. On the other hand, winter’s chill brings a new set of challenges. Melting snow and slush tracked in on shoes can cause wood floors to warp and swell. Salt used for de-icing can leave behind a corrosive residue. 

 

So here’s how you can take care of your floor each season:

Summer

Summer brings increased foot traffic from family activities and guests, which can bring dirt, sand, and moisture from the outdoors. Establishing a strong entryway defence to protect your floors during this season is important. Place high-quality doormats at all entrances to trap dirt and sand before they reach your floors. 

 

Humidity control is crucial for hardwood floors since high humidity can cause wood to expand and potentially warp. Use a dehumidifier in areas with hardwood flooring to maintain stable humidity levels. Regularly vacuum and mop your floors to remove sand and dirt that can act as abrasives and cause scratches. 

 

Meanwhile, frequent sweeping and mopping with a mild cleaner for vinyl and tile floors will help prevent grit from dulling the finish.

Fall

Fall is a transitional season that often brings wet leaves and mud indoors. To prevent these elements from damaging your floors, ensure sturdy doormats are inside each entrance. 

 

For hardwood floors, this season is a good time to apply a protective wax or sealant to guard against increased moisture. Regularly sweep and mop all floor types to remove debris that could cause scratches or stains. Fall is also ideal for deep cleaning and preparing your floors for winter. Meanwhile, consider a professional steam cleaning for carpets to remove deep-seated dirt and allergens accumulated over the summer months.

Winter

Winter brings snow, ice, and salt into your home. These can be particularly harsh on floors. The risk of moisture and salt stains increases for carpet floor areas, so it’s important to vacuum regularly and treat any stains promptly with appropriate cleaners. Place waterproof mats or boot trays at entry points to catch melting snow and ice. 

 

For hardwood and laminate floors, promptly wipe up water or salt to prevent damage and discoloration. Use a humidifier to combat the dry indoor air, which can cause wood floors to contract and develop gaps. Additionally, consider using area rugs in high-traffic areas to protect your floors against scratches and moisture damage.

Spring

Spring cleaning is a tradition for a reason: it is the perfect time to give your floors a thorough cleaning after the wear and tear of winter. You can start by vacuuming and mopping all your floors to remove dust and dirt that have settled over the winter. 

 

For hardwood floors, spring is also a good time to check for any damage or warping that occurred during the colder months and apply a fresh coat of finish if needed. Use a gentle cleaner to restore the shine of tile and vinyl floors. In carpeted areas, focus on deep cleaning to eliminate allergens and refresh the fibres. Additionally, as spring brings increased pollen, ensure your home is well-ventilated, but avoid allowing too much pollen-laden air to settle on your floors.

The Bottom Line

Proper floor care throughout the year involves adapting your cleaning and maintenance routines to address the unique challenges of each season. By taking proactive steps in summer to control humidity and prevent sand damage, protecting against moisture and salt in winter, managing fall debris, and conducting thorough spring cleanings, you can maintain the beauty and durability of your floors.

 

Consistent and seasonally adjusted care preserves the aesthetic appeal of your flooring and extends its lifespan, ensuring a clean and welcoming home environment all year round.

Want to know what your room would look like with a particular flooring? Use our room visualizer app to compare different flooring types and styles from the comfort of your home