It is easy to clean sticky hardwood floors. Choose a cleaning solution that is suitable for hardwood floors, like a cleaner specifically formulated for hardwood floors or a mild, everyday cleanser like dish soap. After cleaning and rinsing the floors, buff them with a soft cloth to remove any residual cleaning solution.

Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution

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  1. In many instances, the best way to clean sticky hardwood floors is with a cleaning solution that is formulated specifically for wood floors. Choose a cleaner with a label that clearly states the product is formulated for the type of hardwood floor you are cleaning. [1]
  2. Mild dish soap will help remove sticky residues from hardwood floors. Opt for a pH neutral soap that is vegetable based. Mix 1 4 cup (59 ml) of dish soap in a bucket of warm water to create an effective cleaning solution. [2]
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  3. Vinegar may prematurely dull or damage hardwood floors. It can, however, be an effective way to clean sticky floors. Try mixing 1 2 cup (120 ml) of white vinegar with 1 gallon (3.8 L) of warm water. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to scrub the sticky area.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Cleaning Sticky Floors

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  1. Prepare the cleaning solution of your choice in a bucket that is large enough for a mop. Follow any directions printed on the cleaning solution label. [3]
  2. Before you attempt to remove sticky residue, you should make sure you remove all loose debris from the area. Use a broom to gently sweep the entire surface of the hardwood floor.
  3. Dip your mop in the cleaning solution and then wring the mop out completely. Mop the floor in the same direction as the grain of the wood. [4]
  4. As you are cleaning your sticky hardwood floors, the cleaning solution may become dirty. If it starts looking gray, dump the solution out and prepare a fresh batch to finish mopping your floors.
  5. Once you have mopped your floors with a cleaning solution, you will need to rinse them to prevent sticky residue from clouding your floors. Fill the bucket with fresh, clean water. Dip the mop in the water, wring out completely, and mop the floors. [5]
  6. Drying and buffing the floors with a soft cloth removes sticky residue that can be left from mopping. Use a cloth made from non-abrasive fiber, like flannel or microfiber, to buff the floor with gentle circular motions. [6]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How much cleaning solution and water do I use when mopping floors?
    Michelle Driscoll, MPH
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Michelle Driscoll is the Owner of Mulberry Maids, which is based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With five years of experience, her business specializes in cleaning homes and small offices. She holds a Masters in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
    Founder, Mulberry Maids
    Expert Answer
    It is best to follow the directions on the particular cleaning solution you are using.
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      Tips

      • Wring out as much of the solution as possible so it doesn’t pool on your hardwood. Mop it completely dry if you get excess liquid on the floor.
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      Article Summary X

      To clean sticky hardwood floors, all you need is a mild cleaning solution and a mop. Try mixing together 1/4 cup of dish soap and a bucket of warm water for a homemade cleaning solution. Alternatively, mix together 1/2 cup of white vinegar and a gallon of warm water. Sweep the floor before you mop to remove any dust or debris. Then, mop the floor with the cleaning solution in the same direction as the wood grain. To prevent streaking, rinse the mop and go over the floor again with regular clean water. Then, dry the floor with a soft, non-abrasive cloth. You can also use a store-bought cleaner, just make sure it's one formulated for hardwood since some cleaners can damage wood floors. To learn how to prevent your hardwood floors from becoming dull, read on!

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