Hardwood flooring, unlike other types of floor coverings can be kept looking new, regardless of wear, with a minimum amount of effort. To protect against damage, just follow some basic, common sense guidelines. If your floor happens to get damaged, don't panic. One of the benefits of wood flooring is that because it is a natural flooring material, it can be repaired and/or refinished to look just like new. Adhering to the following preventative care guidelines will lengthen the time between (and perhaps even eliminate the need for) major renovation or restoration such as recoating or refinishing.

Protect Your Floor with Rugs and Mats
Don't allow dirt and grit to be tracked on your floor. Place doormats at all door entrances to trap dirt. Dirt and grit are a floor's worst enemy. Make sure you keep doormats and rugs clean.

Use the Right Cleaning and Maintenance Products
Make sure you follow all product labels and use only products designed for wood floors. A damp mop may be used for clean-up, but don't use excessive water that can stand on your floor. Sweep, dust-mop or vacuum your floor regularly, but do not use household dusting products, because they can cause your floor to become slick and may damage the finish.

Use Furniture Protectors
To avoid scratching and damaging the floor's surface, place self-adhesive felt furniture pads or other protective pads such as gray rubber non-marking casters on chair and table legs and any other furniture surface that could possibly cause damage when moved across the floor. Be sure to keep the pads clean and free of grit and dirt. Don't use ball-type casters or casters made of hard materials such as plastic or metal — these can damage your floor.

Watch Your Shoes
Make sure the heels of your shoes are in good repair — especially high heels. Heels that are missing their caps or are worn through exposing metal or other abrasive surfaces can cause scratches and dents on any floor's surface. And, of course, never walk across your floor in shoes that have cleats or spikes.

Wood and Water Don't Mix
Never allow water to stand on a hardwood floor for any length of time. Also, don't ever pour water on your floor — it can cause damage to the wood's structure and to the finish. A slightly damp mop or rag may be used for clean-up, but the floor should be dried thoroughly afterward and no excessive water should be present on the floor.

Protect from Spills in the Kitchen
Place rugs or mats in areas that are prone to spills, such as in front of the sink, refrigerator and stove. Cotton mats are recommended because they're easily cleanable. Mats with rubber backings can trap moisture on the floor and cause damage.

Move Area Rugs Regularly
When exposed to ultraviolet (sun) light, wood's natural oxidizing properties can cause the color of your floor and finish to change, taking on an age-worn patina. To keep a consistent color across your floor, rotate area rugs on a regular basis and use window coverings to protect against sun exposure.