How do I maintain my oiled floor?

'Oiled' wood floors are finished with a topcoat that preserves the natural look of the wood whilst adding shine and ensuring a soft feel underfoot. There are a range of oils available for wood floors (vegetable, tinted, wax, etc.) and they are relatively straightforward to apply.
A popular choice for modern houses, oiled oak wood floors need to be regularly maintained to ensure there is always a film of oil protecting the wood. From monthly to yearly maintenance and top tips on what to do in case of an accident, we've compiled a complete list of everything you need to know about looking after your oiled wood floors.

Why should oiled wood floors be regularly cleaned?

Wood floors are only long-lasting when they are carefully maintained and when the area where they are installed is only subject to normal wear and tear. In this case, normal wear and tear means that measures are taken to protect from any damage caused by abrasive elements, such as sand, gravel, furniture legs or unsuitable castors.
In other words, to ensure that oiled wood floors maintain their original appearance, choice of floor, normal lifespan and planned or expected maintenance all need to be taken into account.
Regular cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your oiled wood floors. There are now a range of products and techniques available that can help simplify this process.

How should oiled wood floors be maintained?

The type and frequency of maintenance depend on how much use the wood floor gets. If your oiled wood floor is installed in a high-traffic area, it will require monthly maintenance at the very least.

Regular maintenance

First of all, remove all dust from the area using a broom or a vacuum cleaner. Any marks or dirt can be removed with a slightly damp sponge or mop. Make sure you wring them out well to avoid any puddles or pools of water, as these can dissolve the layer of oil. Only use cold water when cleaning for the same reason.
You should also avoid all use of aggressive or abrasive cleaning products or those that contain silicone or ammonia, as these can damage the wood. Opt for neutral cleaning agents instead.
Soap can be used to regularly clean Panaget oils. We strongly advise applying maintenance oil as soon as you have installed your floor. This will ensure greater resistance to general wear and tear. Regular use can also help ensure the oiled finish maintains its technical properties.
In case of accidental spillage of household products or significant staining of the floor, you can also contact your dealer for more specific advice on cleaning the wood.

Annual maintenance

Once or twice a year, sweep or vacuum your wood floor before spraying with Panaget maintenance oil. Next, wipe the surface with a cotton dust rag so that the oil soaks into the wood. Air out the room and wait four to eight hours until the oil is completely dry. Renewing the layer of oil on your wood floor helps to extend its lifespan and preserve its original appearance.

Partial repair of wood floors

If specific parts of your wood floor are damaged or worn due to burn marks, dents or scratches, it is possible to partially repair it. To do so, start by sanding the damaged area with sandpaper or wire wool. Mix up Panaget repair oil in a container before covering the area using a brush or a rag until the desired appearance is obtained.

Instructions for pre-oiled Ulysse Teak floors

If you have installed pre-oiled Ulysse Teak floors, make sure you apply a thin layer of Panaget oil once complete. Pre-oiled floors are maintained in the same way as classic oiled wood floors.
These maintenance and repair techniques are quick and simple and will really make a difference to your oiled wood floor in the long term. You can also find a professional cleaner if you don’t have time to maintain the floor yourself. Feel free to get in touch with our advisers to find out more.