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Wood floors are a classic, timeless addition to any home as they look great and provide a sturdy surface for walking around your house. Unfortunately, they can also be slick and slippery, especially in wet or humid conditions which can be a danger, especially for kids and pets. Thankfully, there are a few easy methods on how to make wooden floors less slippery, so they’re safe for everyone in the home.
One of the easiest ways to make your floors less slippery is to clean them regularly. Dust, dirt, and pet hair can all build up on your floors and make them more slippery when wet so you can vacuum, mop, or sweep the floors regularly to keep them free from debris that could cause a hazard. You can also use products such as an anti-slip coating or floor mat which is designed specifically for this purpose. If you want a more permanent solution, you can also sand and refinish your floors which will remove any glossy finish that might be making them slippery. And that’s how to make wooden floors less slippery.
Making wood floors less slippery doesn’t have to be a difficult process and there are a few more tips and tricks you can use to make the process easier. We will cover these tips and tricks, as well as the pros and cons of each method, below.
Why is Your Wood Floor Slippery?
Generally, wood in its bare state is not as slippery compared, but the finish applied to wood flooring can cause a slippery effect due to various reasons. Here are some of the common reasons why your wood floor is slippery:
Heat and Humidity
In humid climates, wood floors can be more prone to slippery as the air carries more moisture and adds to the condensation on the floor. As a result, it can eventually make your wood floors slippery as it reduces traction and increases the chance of slipping.
Dust and Dirt
When walking on wood flooring, dust and dirt can easily accumulate on the surface of your wood floors. This can cause slipping when combined with water or even create friction when someone walks on the floors.
Wrong Type of Finish
Sometimes, the wrong type of finish can make your wood floor slippery after it dries. To avoid this, it’s important to use a finish that is designed specifically for your type of wood flooring and make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions correctly.
Grease and Oil
In kitchens or other areas where grease and oil are used, the build-up of these substances can make your floors slippery. This is why it’s important to clean up any spills or splashes promptly and mop up the area with a damp cloth.
Others
Besides the reasons mentioned above, there are other factors that can make your wood floors slippery such as wax build-up, age of the finish, and poor installation.
Related: How To Make Wood Stairs Less Slippery
How to Make Wooden Floors Less Slippery In 10 Easy Methods
Generally, the condition of your wood floor will determine the best method to make them less slippery. So, let’s take a look at some of the best methods you can use to make your wood floors less slippery.
1. Clean Floors Regularly
Vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping your floors on a regular basis will help to keep them free of dust and dirt. As we already mentioned, loose particles such as dirt and debris on a wood floor surface can create a slippery surface. So make sure your floors are regularly cleaned to minimize that slippery feeling.
To clean your floors, use a microfiber mop with warm water and a mild cleaning solution. This will effectively remove dirt, dust, and oils from the flooring surface. Be sure to rinse the mop frequently and avoid leaving wet spots on your floors, as this can also make them slippery.
Vacuuming can also help to get rid of stubborn dirt and debris that can’t be removed with a mop. And always remember to use the right attachments so that your vacuum won’t scratch or damage the floor’s finish.
2. Use Door Mats
The use of door mats is another great way to reduce the slippery feeling on wood floors. Using door mats is a great way to reduce dirt and debris coming into your home and keep it from making your floors slippery.
Further, using door mats in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms or other wet areas can help to absorb any excess water and keep your floors dry. This will help reduce the chances of slipping and sliding on wet wood floors.
3. Add an Area Rug
Area rugs are known to add a decorative touch to any room. But aside from that, they can also help reduce the slippery feeling on wood floors. Adding an area rug to a slippery area of the wood floor is a great way to reduce the slippery feeling.
Look for an area rug with a rubber or non-slip backing, as this will help keep it in place and further reduce the slippery feeling. Additionally, you can also opt for rugs that have textured patterns which help to increase traction on the floor.
4. Wipe Off Spill Immediately
It can be difficult to keep wood floors dry all the time, especially in high-traffic areas. But to prevent slipping on wet wood floors, it’s important to wipe up any spills as soon as possible. This will help to reduce the amount of moisture that accumulates on the floor, and it will also help to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris that can make floors slippery.
5. Try Sanding and Refinishing
Using sandpaper or steel wool can help to make wood floors less slippery. By lightly sanding the floor with a fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool pad, you can help to roughen up the surface and make it less slippery.
Be sure to carefully sand the floor in a circular motion, to ensure even coverage and avoid scratching the surface. Additionally, use a damp cloth or mop to clean up any dust or debris that may have been created during the sanding process.
And remember that it’s always best to test this method in an inconspicuous area first, just to make sure it won’t damage the floor.
6. Use Anti-Slip Adhesive Strips
Anti-slip adhesive strips can be a great way to reduce the slippery feeling of wood floors. These strips are typically made of rubber or other non-slip materials, and they are designed to provide extra traction on wood floors.
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find ones that will fit nicely in any area of your home. They are relatively easy to install, as you simply need to peel off the adhesive backing and stick them to the floor.
The downside is that these strips can be a bit unsightly and they may leave residue on your floors if removed.
7. Use Non-Slip Wax
Non-slip wax is a specialized wax designed to increase the friction between your hardwood floors and your shoes. It is typically made up of a combination of wax and mineral oil. Generally, it is applied using a squeegee or cloth and allowed to dry before buffing the excess off.
Non-slip wax is a great way to reduce slipperiness on hardwood floors without stripping the finish. Additionally, it helps to protect the floor from scratches and scuffs. Just be sure to test this method in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire floor.
8. Use Slip-Resistant Finishes
Slip-resistant finishes are designed to improve the traction of wood floors, thus making them less slippery. Most slip-resistant finishes are typically epoxy aerosol sprays that form a clear, hard film that is non-slip. It can be used on any type of wood floor, including hardwood and laminate floors.
These products are relatively easy to apply and can be purchased at most hardware stores. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper application and results.
The downside of using a slip-resistant finish is that it is not as durable as other treatments, such as floor sealers. Additionally, some finishes may yellow over time or require frequent reapplication.
9. Remove Wax Residue
Even though wax is applied to make wood floors less slippery, it can still build up over time and make them even more dangerous. To remove the wax buildup, use a paste made up of equal parts baking soda and white vinegar. Mix the two together until it forms a paste, then spread it on the floor with a damp cloth and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, wipe the solution off with a damp cloth or mop and your floors will be smooth and safe.
10. Replace With Anti-slip Floor Panels
When looking for a more permanent way on how to make wooden floors less slippery, consider installing anti-slip floor panels. These panels are specifically designed to provide extra grip on hardwood floors, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are relatively easy to install, and they can be used in any area of your home.
You can choose to replace sections and even whole rooms with these panels, depending on how slippery the areas are. However, this could be an expensive and time-consuming option if you need to replace large areas of your home.
Summary of Items You Need To Make Wooden Flow Less Slippery
Dangers of A Slippery Wood Floor
Wood floors are a beautiful and timeless feature in any home, but they can also be a hazard if they become slippery. Accidents can occur when wood floors become slick, making them especially dangerous for older adults and children.
If data by OSHA is to be believed, slips and falls account for around 15% of all accidental deaths. Though a slippery wood floor may not necessarily cause death, it can cause serious injury. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to make sure that your wood floors are not slipping hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to How to Make Wooden Floors Less Slippery
How Do I Get Rid of Slick Spots on Hardwood Floors?
Depending on the cause of your slick spots, you may be able to simply wipe them away with a damp cloth. If the spot is caused by wax buildup or residue from cleaning products, you may need to use a paste made of baking soda and white vinegar. Alternatively, you can use a non-slip wax to increase traction.
Does Vinegar Make Wood Floors Less Slippery?
No, Vinegar and water will not make wood floors less slippery. While vinegar is a great all-purpose cleaner, it will not increase the traction of your wood floors. This is because the vinegar and water mix is not designed to form a film that will increase traction.
How Can I Make My Hardwood Floors Shine but Not Slippery?
Cleaning the floors with a microfiber mop and a wood floor cleaner is arguably the best way to make them shine and reduce their slipperiness. You can also use a non-slip wax that will increase traction while still providing a glossy finish. Additionally, applying a slip-resistant finish and topping off with a sealer can also help to make your hardwood floors less slippery.
How Long Do Slip-Resistant Finishes Last?
The lifespan of slip-resistant finishes varies widely depending on the product used, but most can last up to a year. However, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper application and results. Additionally, some finishes may yellow over time or require frequent reapplication.
Conclusion
Slippery wood floors can be a hazard and an eyesore. Fortunately, there are several methods on how to make wooden floors less slippery. From using non-slip wax to replacing certain sections with anti-slip floor panels, you can find an option that works for you and your budget. Just remember to take the necessary precautions in order to make sure that you don’t worsen the slipperiness of your wood floors.
