Regularly remove dirt and grit with a soft broom, microfiber dust mop, or vacuum. Use a pH-neutral hardwood cleaner and damp-mop sparingly. Avoid steam mops and wax on most modern prefinished hardwood finishes. Protect floors with rugs and felt pads, control indoor humidity, and follow the manufacturer's specific maintenance recommendations.

Keep grit off the surface

Sweep, dust, or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit that act like sandpaper on wood. Use a soft-bristle broom, a dust mop with a microfiber head, or a vacuum with a hard-floor setting and a soft brush attachment. High-traffic areas may need daily attention; most rooms do fine with weekly dusting.

Choose the right cleaners

Use a pH-neutral cleaner formulated for hardwood floors and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid oil soaps, wax-based cleaners, or any product that leaves a dulling residue. Test a new cleaner in an inconspicuous spot first.

Many manufacturers (including lines sold as Bruce) offer or recommend specific maintenance products - check your product documentation or retailer for the recommended cleaner before using a brand-name solution.

Mop with care

Damp-mop rather than flood the floor. Wring the mop until it's nearly dry and work in small sections. Microfiber flat mops pick up dust and use less liquid than traditional mops. Never let water pool on the wood; excess moisture can cause cupping, swelling, or finish damage.

Avoid steam mops on finished hardwood unless the floor manufacturer explicitly approves them. The combination of heat and moisture can damage finishes and the wood itself.

Protect the finish

Most modern prefinished hardwoods have durable factory finishes such as polyurethane or aluminum-oxide coatings; these finishes don't need wax and can be damaged by wax or abrasive cleaners. If your floors are prefinished, don't apply paste wax unless your manufacturer says it's safe. 1

Use area rugs at entries and in high-traffic zones, and attach felt pads to furniture legs. Trim pet nails regularly to reduce scratches.

Control the environment

Maintain indoor relative humidity in a stable range (generally 30-50%) to reduce seasonal shrinking and gapping. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed to keep conditions steady, especially in climates with large seasonal swings.

Follow the manufacturer's guidance

Your best source of product-specific guidance is the flooring manufacturer or the retailer that sold your floors. Buy recommended cleaners from those sources when possible, and replace them before you run out to keep a consistent maintenance routine. 2

Small, regular care prevents many problems. A few minutes each week to sweep and a careful damp mop when needed go a long way toward keeping Bruce hardwood floors looking their best.

  1. Confirm whether Bruce (brand) currently markets or recommends a specific "Bruce" branded hardwood cleaner and its exact product name.
  2. Verify Bruce or the manufacturer's guidance that most Bruce prefinished hardwood products use polyurethane or aluminum-oxide factory finishes and that wax is not recommended for those lines.
  3. Confirm manufacturer guidance regarding steam mop use for current Bruce hardwood product lines and any approved models/methods.

FAQs about Bruce Hardwood Floor Cleaner

How often should I sweep or vacuum my Bruce hardwood floors?
Dust or sweep at least weekly for typical rooms; clean daily in high-traffic areas or if you have pets. Use a soft-bristle broom, microfiber dust mop, or a vacuum with a hard-floor setting.
Can I use a steam mop on hardwood floors?
Avoid steam mops unless the floor manufacturer specifically approves them. Steam can force moisture into the wood and damage finishes.
Is it okay to use wax on prefinished hardwood?
Most modern prefinished hardwoods have factory finishes (polyurethane or aluminum-oxide) and do not require wax; wax can create buildup or interfere with the finish. Check your manufacturer's guidance before using wax.
What cleaner should I use on Bruce hardwood?
Use a pH-neutral cleaner made for hardwood floors and follow label directions. Check the flooring documentation or retailer for any manufacturer-recommended products.
How can I reduce gaps or cupping in my hardwood floors?
Keep indoor relative humidity stable (generally 30-50%) with humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed. Avoid prolonged moisture exposure and rapid humidity swings.