Flooring specialists at Hyperion Tiles have revealed that black tea is an effective, affordable way to keep wooden floors gleaming and dust-free for longer. The tannins in black tea help bring out the natural richness of wooden floors, adding a subtle shine without damaging the surface.
Unlike modern cleaning sprays that can leave residue or dull the finish over time, tea is a gentle yet effective alternative. It can penetrate and break down grime, cleaning floors while keeping them dust-free for extended periods.
Why black tea works
The specialists noted: "Tannins found in black tea help bring out the natural richness of wooden floors, adding a subtle shine without damaging the surface. Unlike modern cleaning sprays that often leave residue or dull the finish over time, tea is a gentle yet effective alternative."
They added: "This method is a fantastic example of how natural ingredients can be just as effective as modern cleaners, without the risk of damaging high-quality flooring. We always recommend gentle, pH-balanced cleaning solutions for hardwood and tiled floors, and black tea fits perfectly into that category. It's an easy, affordable trick that anyone can try at home."
While other teas contain tannins, alternatives to black tea are not advised because different teas have varying tannin concentrations, and alternatives either feature a reduced amount or are inconsistent. The longer the tea is brewed, the more tannins infuse into the water.
How to clean wooden floors with black tea
Laura Harnett, founder of eco-cleaning brand Seep, suggests using 10 to 15 tea bags in a large saucepan filled with water. She advised: "Leave them boiling for about 15 minutes to make sure all the tannins have been extracted."
Begin by bringing just under two litres of water to the boil in a large pan over high heat. Once boiling, switch the heat off and steep the tea bags in the hot water for approximately 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the tea bags, squeezing all remaining liquid into the tea before discarding them. Allow the tea to cool to a barely warm temperature to avoid damaging the floor's finish.
Once lukewarm, transfer the mixture into a bucket and test it on a concealed or less visible spot, such as a corner area. Take a clean cloth, dip it into the tea, and wring it out thoroughly, never saturating wooden floors with water. Working in the direction of the wood grain, apply the tea to the test section.
After testing and confirming the colour enhancement, clean the remainder of the floor with a mop using minimal water. Allow the floor to dry to reveal the revitalised hardwood.
