Hardwood floors are often a big investment, one you want to protect from scratches and gouges. One ugly scrape can mar those floors you were so proud of, but there are steps you can take to keep them gleaming.

Sweep Regularly

Keep dust, pet hair and other bits off the floors as much as possible by sweeping or vacuuming often. Crumbs of dirt and small gravel brought inside in shoe treads can cause scratches and other wear on your floors, so prevent that with frequent cleaning.

Clean Spills Quickly

The instant a juice box tips over and spills all over the floor, wipe it up. You’ll want to prevent that sticky mess from soaking into the wood. Use a dry cloth first to sop up the mess, then use a damp cloth to remove any lingering sugary liquid. Dry with a clean cloth once more to remove any dampness.

Damp Mop, Then Dry

As needed, mop your hardwood floors with a damp, but not soaking wet, mop. Then immediately dry the floors with a soft cloth. Using a very wet mop can damage the floors.

Use Area Rugs

In high-traffic areas, consider using area rugs to protect the floors. Attractive rugs that match your decor will break up big expanses of the hardwoods and add an attractive look to the room.

Use Felt Pads

Use felt pads or other furniture coasters under the legs of furniture, such as chairs, tables, couches and ottomans. This will prevent the furniture from scratching the floors.

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Keep Pet Nails Trimmed

The sharp nails of cats and dogs can easily gouge up hardwoods, especially those of dogs when they’re scrambling toward the door when someone knocks. Keep pet nails neatly trimmed to prevent this from happening.

Leave Shoes at the Front Door

Encourage family members and guests to leave their shoes at the front door. This will cut down on dirt, sand and gravel being tracked in and all over your beautiful floors.