Before you start: Sweep or vacuum floor, paying special attention to comers where dirt collects. Always read directors on detergents to make sure they can be used on your floor surface. Prepare two buckets for mopping – one with detergent solution, the other with clean rinse water. Make sure the head of the mop is free of dirt and that the wringer is working properly.
Floor mopping basics: Dip the sponge mop into the bucket. Don’t wring the mop out before you spread detergent solution over a small area. Scrub the area with the mop. Rinse well, making sure not to leave the detergent on the floor. Change the rinse water often.
Floor mopping specifics: Vinyl (including no-wax): Damp mop with a solution of all-purpose cleaner and warm water. Rinse with clean water. Caution: Abrasive cleaners may scratch vinyl.
Linoleum: Damp mop only occasionally with a weak solution of water and all-purpose cleaner. Caution: Excessive water makes linoleum brittle. Do not use hot water, strong solvents or abrasives.
Wood: Wring mop nearly dry in warm water before mopping. To pick up dust and dirt, add cup vinegar to water. Caution: If water seeps into the cracks in the finish, it can destroy the floor. Do not use ammonia because it dulls the surface.
Ceramic Tile: Mop with a solution of dishwashing liquid, when wipe with a chamois cloth. Caution: Do not use abrasives because ceramic easily scratches.
Tips: Mopping should be done once a week. Sweeping or vacuuming floors regularly cuts down on heavy-duty, hands-and-knees cleaning. Use mats and area rugs at entrances to avoid tracking in dirt. Leave stilleto-heeled shoes at the door. An elephant’s foot exerts 50 pounds to 100 pounds of pressure per square inch; a 125-pound woman’s heel exerts up to 2,000 pounds of pressure. If the shoe is not well-heeled and the tack is exposed, it can cause excessive damage to the floor. Most floor warranties don’t cover this kind of damage.
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Sources: “Household Hints & Tips” by Cassandra Kent (DK Publishing Inc. $19.95); All-New Hints from Heloise” (Perigree Books, $13); “Mary Ellen’s Complete Home Reference Book” by Mary Ellen Pinkham (Crown Trade Paperbacks, $12)
