Brazilian cherry hardwood floors – just the name evokes a sense of warm, rich tones emanating from within the exotic woodgrain. There’s no denying these floors are absolutely beautiful. It’s easy to see how their gorgeous reddish-brown hue and sleek, luxurious feel underfoot would make anyone fall head over heels in love.
But it takes some effort to keep these beauties looking good year after year. And it’s heartbreaking to see scratches, scuffs, and dents marring those flawless planks! Not to fret.
In the following article, you’ll find tips to clean, protect, and renew your Brazilian cherry floors in fabulous shape for years of enjoyment. So, get the inside scoop on quick moppings for light maintenance as well as heavy-duty methods for resanding and refinishing worn floors. Keep reading.
Assess the Current Condition of Your Floors
Before you start cleaning, take a good look at the current condition of your Brazilian cherry floors. Check for any scratches, dents, or discoloration. Also, note how worn or dull the finish looks. This will help you determine what kind of deep cleaning is needed.
Check for Surface Issues
Get down and look carefully across the floors. Look for scratches, gouges, and dents. Brazilian cherry is a dense hardwood, but it can still be damaged. Deep scratches may require repairs.
Assess the Sheen
See how much of the original luster and gloss remains. Over time, foot traffic, sunlight, and dirt will wear down the shine. Floors may need re-sanding and re-coating if the finish is too far gone.
Note Any Stains or Discoloration
Examine for any darkened, lightened, or yellowed areas. Stains often need special treatment to remove. Be sure to identify any problem spots.
Determine The Right Cleaning Method For Brazilian Cherry Hardwood Floors
The condition of your floors will point you to the right cleaning technique. Light, routine cleaning vs. heavy-duty refinishing differs greatly.
Light Cleaning for Minor Dirt and Dust
If the floors are in generally good shape, light mopping is all you need. Mix gentle cleaner into water and mop up dirt and footprints.
Deep Cleaning for Heavy Soil or Neglect
For grimy surfaces or dull finish, use more intensive mopping and soaking to thoroughly clean. This removes years of dirt and oils.
Full Refinishing for Severe Damage
You likely need sanding and re-coating if the floor has extensive scratches, gouges, warping, or staining. This involves refinishing the raw wood.
Gather the Proper Cleaning Supplies
Having the right cleaning products makes a big difference. Choose the most suitable options for your floors’ current state.
For Routine Light Cleaning
- Microfiber mop
- pH neutral cleaner, like Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner
- Two buckets – one for soap and water, one for rinsing
For a Deep Cleaning Session
- Rubber gloves and knee pads
- Cotton mop heads
- Ammonia-based cleaner or degreaser
- Scrub brushes
- Grout brush for cracks
For Refinishing the Floors
- Drum floor sander
- Edger sander
- Sandpaper discs – 80 to 120 grit
- Tack cloths
- Polyurethane floor finish
- Stain applicator supplies
Understand the Wood’s Unique Properties
Brazilian cherry has characteristics you need to consider when cleaning and refinishing. Keep these in mind as you work.
It Dents Easily
Use extra care when moving furniture or appliances. Pads and coasters can also help prevent dents.
It Shows Wear Readily
High foot traffic areas will show effects quickly. Stay on top of cleaning to preserve the wood.
It Has a Natural Color Variation
The wood exhibits a wide range of reddish-brown hues. Don’t try to achieve a uniform color. Celebrate the diversity.
It Has Interlocking Grain
The tight wood grain gives Brazilian cherry its hardness. But it also makes refinishing tricky. Be cautious when sanding.
Know the Steps for Proper Light Cleaning
When you simply need a routine cleaning, follow this straightforward mopping process:
1. Sweep or vacuum thoroughly.
Remove all surface-level grit, debris, and dust.
2. Mix cleaner solution.
Fill the bucket halfway with warm water. Add 1/4 cup pH-neutral cleaner.
3. Damp mop the floor.
Dip the mop in the solution, wring thoroughly, and wipe over the floor.
4. Rinse the mop and refill water.
Change rinse water frequently to prevent streaks and residue.
5. Allow floors to fully dry.
Stay off floors until completely dry—open windows to aid quick drying.
Use the Right Deep Cleaning Approach
For a grimy floor with buildup, use a more intense soaking and scrubbing method:
1. Sweep and vacuum as the first step.
You want to remove all loose debris before wet cleaning.
2. Create an ammonia cleaning solution.
Mix 1 cup of clear ammonia into 1 gallon of warm water.
3. Section off the floor and soak a 3×3 section.
Use a cotton mop to apply the solution and let it soak for 5 minutes.
4. Scrub with a stiff bristle brush.
Scrub problem areas to loosen stuck-on dirt and oils.
5. Rinse and soak up liquid.
Dip a sponge mop in plain water, wring out, and wipe away residue.
6. Allow the floor to dry thoroughly.
Open windows and use fans to accelerate drying time.
Tackle Small Stains and Spots
For targeted stain removal, use these techniques:
For White Spots and Rings
- Rub with toothpaste using a rag. Wipe clean with a barely damp rag.
For Food and Drink Stains
- Spray with hydrogen peroxide. Let sit for 1 hour. Blot clean.
For Ink Marks and Smudges
- Gently scrape off the excess. Rub with alcohol using a cloth.
For Pet Urine Stains
- Mix vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Blot on the stain and let sit for 15 minutes.
Take Safety Precautions During Cleaning
While cleaning Brazilian cherry floors, remember:
Use Proper Shoes
Wear shoes with non-marking rubber soles while cleaning. Bare feet or socks can slip.
Open Windows
Ventilate the area during deep cleaning and refinishing. Fumes can build up.
Work Slowly on the Stairs
Take extra care when mopping and brushing on stairs. Go slow.
Let Floors Fully Dry
Allow time for floors to completely dry before walking on them. Prevent moisture damage.
Maintain Floors Moving Forward
Once your floors look beautiful again, maintain them well:
- Sweep and mop floors weekly
- Immediately wipe up spills
- Use doormats and area rugs
- Apply floor protectant every 3-6 months
- Place felt pads under heavy furniture
- Avoid walking in shoes with abrasive soles
Bottom Line – Enjoy the Warmth and Charm
With the right care, your exotic Brazilian cherry floors will be a stunning focal point in your home for years to come. Follow these tips, and soon, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy their natural elegance and charm up close.