How to Use a Wooden Floor Cleaner for Oiled Surfaces
If you have just installed or refinished a timber floor, or are thinking about taking on such a project, it is important to understand that aftercare is crucial for the initial finish. A beautiful oiled wooden floor can last for a long period of time, but only if you use the correct maintenance products and cleaning techniques. One of the most important products you will use is a professional dedicated floor cleaner like Treatex’s Floor Care. Unlike ordinary mopping, this product is specifically designed to protect wood floors finished with oils, including hardwax oils.
Why Regular Mopping Isn’t Enough for Oiled Timber
Most everyday household floor cleaners are made with ingredients such as detergents or degreasers that strip away natural oils when used over time. When used on sealed timber floors that have been treated with oils, the products can dull the finish, dry out the wood and leave behind residue that attracts dirt. Regular water, along with minimal dust, cleans lightly but won’t nourish or protect the finish, and excessive moisture can cause the wood to swell or warp. Even worse, if you use a standard floor cleaner that is not designed for wood, it could damage the finish over time.
The reason for using a proper wood floor cleaner is that wooden floors that have been oiled are much more breathable, forming a natural but delicate layer of protection. You need a cleaning routine that respects the oil layer, not strips it away.
What Is Treatex Floor Care and Why Is It Important?
Treatex Floor Care is a specialised wood floor cleaner and maintenance product formulated specifically for timber floors that have been finished with Treatex Hardwax Oil or other similar oil-based treatments. It isn’t just a cleaner; it cleans and nourishes at the same time. The key to its effectiveness lies in its composition: the formula contains natural vegetable oils and carnauba wax. When applied, the wax does not just clean dirt and grime; it leaves a thin, replenishing protective layer that helps maintain the wood’s natural beauty and durability. Using Treatex Floor Care regularly helps slow wear on the wood and keeps it looking vibrant.
Here’s what stands out about our Floor Care:
Cleans without Harsh Chemicals - Unlike many household cleaners, Treatex Floor Care avoids strong detergents and solvents that can break down wood oils. Its natural ingredients are gentle on the wood finish.
Adds a Protective Wax Layer - When you are cleaning, the product lays down a thin wax film that enhances the wood’s sheen and strengthens its resistance to everyday wear and tear.
Maintains Timber’s Natural Look - Rather than leaving streaks or a filmy residue, it helps preserve the rich texture and colour of the wood.
Suitable for Oiled Floors - Treatex Floor Care is designed specifically for floors that are sealed with oil, and not for floors finished with polyurethane or lacquer finishes. This ensures the product works with, not against, your floor’s existing protection.
How to Safely Apply Treatex Floor Care
Using Treatex Floor Care correctly is key to getting the best results. Follow these simple steps to clean and protect your oiled timber floor:
Prepare the Solution - Dilute 25-50 mL of Treatex Floor Care in 5 litres of water. This will make a mild cleaning solution that won’t saturate the wood. If you are tackling tough stains, you can increase the dilution strength slightly, but do not exceed 100ml per litre of water.
Damp Mop the Floor - Use a mop, not a soaking-wet one, to apply the cleaning solution. Too much water can cause the wood fibres to swell, potentially leading to warping. Wring out your mop thoroughly before use. Alternatively, if you have a slow buffing machine with a white pad, you can use it with the cleaning solution for larger floors or deeper cleaning. This method helps the wax penetrate evenly while removing dirt effectively.
Work in Sections - Cleaning the floor all at once can leave some areas wetter than others, so tackle it in manageable portions. Keep your movements gentle and consistent.
Avoid Saturating the Wood - As the product instructions clearly state, never allow the wood to remain wet or damp for long periods. This prevents swelling and helps protect the finish you’ve worked hard to install.
How Correct Floor Care Extends the Life of Your Timber Finish
Just like paint, wood finishes naturally wear over time, especially in busy areas such as hallways and living rooms. However, with a consistent maintenance routine using the right products, your timber floor can remain attractive and durable for many years. Using a dedicated cleaner like Treatex Floor Care helps protect the finish in several important ways.
Firstly, the product leaves behind a light wax layer that fills microscopic pores and smooths small surface imperfections. This reduces abrasion caused by foot traffic and the movement of furniture, helping the floor withstand daily use more effectively. Regular cleaning also removes embedded dirt and grit, which act like tiny particles of sandpaper underfoot. By clearing away this debris before it has a chance to damage the surface, you significantly slow down wear.
In addition to cleaning, Treatex Floor Care nourishes the wood with natural oils, preventing the finish from drying out or becoming brittle. This keeps the timber more flexible and resilient, allowing it to cope better with changes in temperature, movement and day-to-day impact. Proper maintenance also supports future upkeep. A well-cared-for floor is far easier to refresh with wax polishes or oils when needed, reducing the likelihood of more intensive work such as sanding or full refinishing, both of which are time-consuming and costly.
Tips for Everyday Care Between Deep Cleans
Even with a high-quality product like Treatex Floor Care, your daily habits still matter:
Vacuum or sweep regularly - to remove grit
Clean up spills as soon as possible - don’t let liquids sit
Use rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear and tear
Avoid steam mops and harsh tools - they can damage the floor's finish
These everyday, simple habits, combined with regular use of Treatex Floor Care, will help protect your floor for many years to come.
Caring for Your Floors
Timber floors are a beautiful addition to any home. They bring character, timeless style and warmth. But they also require the right care, especially if you’re new to wood, finishing or DIY maintenance. Using a dedicated product like Treatex Floor Care, applying it correctly and understanding why it’s different to regular mopping will make the difference. With the guidance above, even a beginner can feel confident maintaining oiled timber floors and enjoying their beauty for many years to come.