RevWood flooring brings the beauty of hardwood with the durability of laminate. Designed for households that want a wood-look floor that can take daily wear and tear, RevWood is water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and tough enough for pets and kids. But as strong as it is, it still needs the right kind of care to stay in top shape. One wrong cleaner or habit can dull the finish or weaken its water-resistant core.
Homeowners throughout Northern Virginia trust Mobile Maids Cleaning Service for expert care of specialty flooring, including RevWood. Whether we’re maintaining high-traffic family homes or preparing properties for listing, our team uses safe, effective techniques tailored to every surface.
Start With the Basics: Dry Cleaning Methods That Work
RevWood flooring should be treated as a low-moisture surface. Before reaching for any mops or liquids, the floor needs to be clear of dust, pet hair, and everyday debris. Fine grit can act like sandpaper on the surface, leading to micro-scratches that dull the appearance over time.
Use a vacuum with a hard floor setting or a microfiber dry mop to remove surface dirt. Avoid vacuums with a beater bar unless it has a safe setting for hard surfaces. These aggressive rollers can scratch the finish if not properly disengaged.
Daily or every-other-day dry cleaning is ideal in busy areas like kitchens, hallways, and living rooms. Staying consistent with dry cleaning keeps your floors looking polished without much effort.
Tackling Wet Cleaning the Right Way
RevWood is water-resistant, not waterproof. That distinction matters. Soaking the floor with too much water, or letting puddles sit, can penetrate the seams and compromise the core of the material.
When it’s time to clean beyond dry methods, use a damp mop that’s been thoroughly wrung out. Microfiber mops are ideal because they distribute minimal moisture evenly and dry quickly.
Never pour water directly onto the floor. Instead, spray the mop or apply cleaner to the mop pad. If you prefer to make your own cleaner, a mild solution of diluted vinegar or dish soap can work—as long as it’s used sparingly and followed with a dry pass to remove any remaining moisture.
After damp mopping, always go over the surface again with a dry microfiber cloth or pad to prevent streaking or residue.
Avoiding Common Mistakes That Can Damage RevWood
Many homeowners unknowingly damage their RevWood floors by using the wrong tools or chemicals. One of the most common mistakes is using steam mops. While steam might seem gentle, the high heat and moisture can seep into the joints and cause swelling or warping.
Harsh chemical cleaners are another issue. Products designed for traditional hardwood floors often contain oils or waxes that leave behind residue. Others contain abrasive ingredients that degrade the wear layer of RevWood.
Dragging furniture or heavy appliances without protection will also wear down your floor faster than usual. Use felt pads under all furniture legs, and always lift rather than push when moving heavy items.
Lastly, letting spills sit is a mistake that can lead to moisture damage. Even though RevWood is water-resistant, it’s best to clean up spills immediately and dry the area thoroughly.
Handling Scuffs, Marks, and Residue Buildup
Even with regular maintenance, you may notice scuff marks or cloudy patches. These often come from shoes with rubber soles, pet paws, or cleaner buildup.
For scuffs, a damp microfiber cloth and light pressure will usually remove the mark. If not, try using a cloth dampened with a small amount of diluted vinegar. Rub gently in the direction of the grain.
Cloudiness or film on the surface often signals residue left behind by cleaning products. This can be cleared with a damp cloth and clean water, followed by a dry microfiber pass. Avoid reapplying more cleaner until all the old buildup is fully removed.
Never use abrasive pads or scrubbing sponges. Stick to microfiber for both damp and dry cleaning needs.
How Often Should RevWood Be Cleaned?
Frequency depends on the traffic level in your home. For average use, dry mop or vacuum every two to three days and wet clean weekly or bi-weekly. High-traffic zones may need more frequent dry mopping.
Seasonal deep cleaning is also a good idea. This doesn’t mean soaking the floor or using industrial equipment, but giving extra attention to corners, under furniture, and baseboards where dust and grime tend to collect.
If you notice any odor, discoloration, or dullness that doesn’t resolve with regular care, it’s worth scheduling a professional cleaning to reset the finish and remove deep residue without harming the surface.
Preserving the Look: Preventive Care That Makes a Difference
The easiest way to keep RevWood floors looking good is to prevent damage in the first place. Door mats inside and out reduce the amount of grit and moisture tracked inside. Make shoe-free zones in your home or encourage slippers indoors. This small change cuts down on scuffs and dirt significantly.
Use rugs or runners in hallways and kitchens, but avoid rubber-backed mats. These can trap moisture underneath and discolor the floor. Look for breathable rug pads labeled safe for laminate or engineered flooring.
Trim pet nails regularly and clean up after them promptly. Pet claws can leave small scratches and accidents, if not cleaned quickly, can damage the floor’s surface integrity.
In dryer months, consider a humidifier to reduce shrinkage and static buildup. RevWood is more stable than solid hardwood, but extreme dryness can still cause minor gapping.
Conclusion
RevWood floors offer the warmth of hardwood without the maintenance headaches, but only when cleaned the right way. Skip the shortcuts and flashy products. A consistent, thoughtful cleaning routine is what keeps this surface looking rich and fresh for years.
Homeowners in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Springfield, and McLean who want peace of mind can count on Mobile Maids Cleaning Service to handle specialty flooring with safe and effective methods. Whether it’s a one-time clean or part of a regular service plan, we keep your floors spotless without compromise.