Windex on hardwood floors?

Question

Is it true that if you dilute Windex with water it is safe to use on hardwood floors?

Answer 1

I wouldn't try it, the amonia may still dry out the floor. Better to use a pledge product or something to keep it shinny.

Answer 2

If your hardwood floors are finished with (oil base) polyurethane it is safe.

The wood is protected by the polyurethane, which is basically a protective "plastic" coating. Windex and a roll of paper towels are great for quick clean ups.

For regular maintenance of your floors one cup of vinegar to a gallon of warm water applied with a slightly damp mop is a great economical cleaner.^

Answer 3

no, I wouldn't recommend it - use a cleaner strictly for wood floors

Answer 4

I haven't hears that before, but I have hardwood floors in my hall and here is what I do.... Brew a quart of strong tea and let it cool to room temperature. Dip a cloth or microfiber mop into the tea, wring out and wash the floor. The tannic acid in the tea will leave a brilliant shine on the floors. No rinsing is required as long as you keep the cloth/mop clean. I love it

Answer 5

Windex is based on ammonia.

Ammonia is an alkali (base).

Alkalis can be harmful to many wood finishes, especially over time.  The same can be said for acids (e.g., vinegar).

I would also never recommend using Pledge(r) on a floor.  It contains inert silicone oil, meaning it never goes away.  If you ever need the floor refinished, it will still be there and cause fish-eyes in the new finish.  Not pretty.   It will also make the floor quite slippery.

Answer 6

My mother always used the floor wax (for wood) and brown shoe polish.  Not only were her floors mirrors with shine, but any spots that were discolored or scuffed were fully restored by the shoe polish.  She always had beautiful floors!!

She mixed the shoe polish in with the wax, by the way.

God bless you!

Answer 7

I believe the chemicals in the Windex can damage your floors, so I would advise against it.  Vinegar mixed with water works wonders though.  This is a popular tip at Scott Common Sense Community for caring for hardwood floors:

http://www.scottcommonsense.com/Tip.aspx...

I'm constantly amazed at the many many used of vinegar!