Everyday Habits That Keep Your Floors Looking New in Southeast Georgia

Floors take a beating, especially in busy households across Southeast Georgia. Between shoes, humidity, muddy paws, and daily wear, even the toughest floors can start to show their age. Whether you’ve invested in hardwood, tile, laminate, or luxury vinyl, a few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your floors looking their best for years to come.

At West Broad Flooring, we help homeowners across Metter, Savannah, Statesboro, and beyond choose the right flooring. But protecting that investment is just as important as selecting it. Here’s how to do that with confidence.

Start with Furniture Pads

One of the fastest ways to scuff up your floor is by dragging furniture across it. Even everyday shifting from chairs, barstools, or a recliner can leave noticeable marks over time.

• Use felt pads or rubber protectors under furniture legs, especially in dining areas, living rooms, and home offices.
• Replace pads regularly. Dust and grit can build up underneath and act like sandpaper.
• Avoid weak adhesive pads that peel off easily or leave sticky residue. Look for durable options made specifically for your floor type.

Add Area Rugs and Runners

High-traffic zones like hallways, entryways, and kitchen workspaces are prone to wear. Strategic use of rugs helps absorb impact and reduce surface scratches.

• Use runners in narrow spaces like hallways or alongside kitchen islands.
• Place area rugs under dining tables to catch chair movement and food spills.
• Pair rugs with breathable, non-slip pads that are safe for your flooring material. Avoid rubber or latex backing on hardwood.

Stick to a Smart Cleaning Routine

How you clean is just as important as how often. Skip harsh chemicals or abrasive tools and stick to a gentle routine designed for hard-surface flooring.

• Sweep or dry-dust frequently using a microfiber mop or soft broom to trap dirt and grit before it can scratch.
• Use neutral pH floor cleaners. Avoid vinegar, bleach, or ammonia-based products that can break down protective finishes.
• Skip the steam mop on hardwood or laminate. Excess moisture and heat can cause boards to swell or lose their shape.

Take Shoes Off at the Door

Shoes track in everything from dirt to tiny rocks to road salt in winter, and high heels can dent even solid wood.

• Create a habit of removing shoes at the entryway.
• Provide a bench, storage cubbies, or a boot tray to encourage guests and family to follow suit.
• Keep a towel or mat nearby for drying off wet shoes during rainy or snowy days.

Don’t Overlook Seasonal Care

In Southeast Georgia, humidity and seasonal moisture changes can impact how your floors look and perform.

• Use a dehumidifier in summer or during rainy seasons to prevent wood floors from swelling or cupping.
• Keep salt and grit outside in winter using brush mats and boot trays.
• Run a humidifier in colder months to prevent gaps from forming in hardwood floors.

Stay Ahead of Spills

Accidents happen. The key is to clean spills before they have time to soak in, stain, or damage the surface.

• Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing.
• Use a damp cloth and mild cleaner for sticky messes, then dry thoroughly.
• Place protective mats under pet bowls, potted plants, and near sinks or appliances prone to drips.

Set Up an Entryway System

The way people enter your home can set the tone for how much dirt ends up on your floors.

• Use a layered entry system: a coarse outdoor mat followed by a brush or absorbent mat inside.
• Encourage guests to wipe feet and remove shoes before entering main living areas.
• Add a small rug just inside the door for extra dirt-trapping.

Protect Your Investment the Easy Way

Your flooring plays a big role in your home’s comfort, style, and functionality. With just a few everyday habits, you can keep your floors in great condition, no special equipment or constant deep cleaning required.

Looking to upgrade or replace your floors? Stop by our showroom in Metter, GA or give us a call today. At West Broad Flooring, we proudly serve Metter, Savannah, Statesboro, Vidalia, Bryan County, and surrounding areas, helping homeowners choose flooring that’s made to last.