Wooden flooring can lose its shine during summer due to sunlight and increased dust, but a simple homemade mixture containing olive oil can restore its lustre and help repel dust, according to Elizabeth, a mum and founder of At Home On The Prairie.
Why wooden floors dull in summer
Strong sunlight can degrade the finish on wood floors, making them look lacklustre. Higher levels of dust and pollen in summer can act like sandpaper, slowly eroding the wood surface.
Elizabeth explained: "This solution will not only clean wood floors, but it also uses olive oil to naturally polish and shine them up at the same time! But unlike commercial wood polish, olive oil doesn't leave a residue that builds up over time."
How olive oil helps
Olive oil nourishes the wood and brings out the grain, making floors look richer and warmer. It also adds moisture to remove static charge, which can attract debris and cause dust buildup.
A small amount of olive oil can keep floors cleaner for longer, reduce the need for vacuuming, and buff minor scratches to make them less noticeable.
Homemade floor cleaner recipe
To make the cleaner, you need one tablespoon of olive oil, four teaspoons of white vinegar, one teaspoon of castile soap, 400ml of water, and an empty spray bottle.
First, vacuum or sweep the floor thoroughly, including under rugs and tables. Then pour all ingredients into the spray bottle, fasten the lid, and shake well.
Mist the solution lightly over the floor in small sections, applying only a fine coating to avoid over-saturating the wood, which can cause warping. Use a dry mop or cloth to buff the floor with circular motions, leaving it looking pristine.
