This is a complete guide on how to remove water stains from wood floors by using simple DIY ways quickly and easily.
Water stains on wood floors can be a real eyesore. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also lead to damage and decay if not treated properly. Wooden flooring is a valuable investment, and it should be cared for properly.
It can destroy the looks of a wooden floor that have water stains on it they will appear as a light-colored cloud, but if the color of your stain is light, then it is a positive sign that means that moisture has not touched the real wood rather it is just caught up in the finish.
But, the dark-colored stains show that your actual wood has been affected, and that’s a bad signal. Stains on a wooden floor can be caused by many different things.
It is important to clean up any spilled liquids quickly. It can be difficult when it comes time to remove water stains from the wood floors, though, so the article will also discuss how to remove water stains from wood floors.
Ways On How To Remove Water Stains From Wood Floors
The first thing you need to do is see whether the water stains are old or new. If the water stains are old, then you can try any of our below-listed methods.
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Mayonaise Method
The mayonnaise method is a time-tested one, and with this method, you will be achieving your goal in a very short period of time.
All you need to do for this method is to take a little bit of mayonnaise and smear it on the affected area. After that, just leave it for a couple of hours, and then wipe it off properly with a thick cloth.
Just make sure that mayonnaise doesn’t dry; keep the affected stained spot moist. That’s it! You have successfully removed the water stains from your wooden floor and can expect to see a fantastic result.
It will be as if the affected area was never stained before. This is one of the best ways how to remove water stains from wood floors because it does not require any kind of hard.
Salt & Oil Method
In this method, you will need table salt and vegetable oil. In a bowl, take half a cup of the oil and add some salt to it. Mix the ingredient well so that they combine properly.
Now, using a brush apply this mixture on top of the affected area in a thick way and leave it for 20 minutes, then remove it with a clean cloth.
The oil in this method will break down the water stains while it acts as an abrasive. The salt particles also add some extra scouring power to the process.
This method effectively removes the water stains from the wood floor, and it also makes your wooden floor look shimmering and beautiful, like new.
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Toothpaste Method
The next way is to try the toothpaste method. Take some white toothpaste and smear it over the stained area. Leave it for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Dab some water over the area to remove the dried toothpaste. The acid present in your toothpaste will help to break down the stains and will lighten them for you.
Make sure that you have not used whitening paste; it might cause damage; then try this method which is quite effective in removing water stains.
Add baking soda to the toothpaste in amounts of equal parts for more stubborn stains.
Baking Soda Method
The baking soda method is really powerful and effective for removing water stains from wood floors. Mix the ingredients in a bowl which consists of 1 tablespoon of water and 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
You will get an acidic solution which you need to pour over the stained area. Using a brush, scrub thoroughly till the stain starts coming out.
For better results, scrub it in a circular way. After this, rinse the area with clean and wipe it properly. If this does not work, repeat the process but add more paste and rest for one night.
This method is quite simple to do at home with the ingredients lying around you. You can remove all kinds of stains from your stained wooden floor using this method.
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Ashes And Butter Method
The ashes and butter method is also powerful in removing water stains from wood. All you need to do is take some ashes from the fireplace (or cigarette ashtray).
Mix this with one tablespoon of softened butter until they form a thick paste (try to mix in equal parts). You will have to apply this paste to the stained area and then let it sit for an hour or so.
Once this has dried, wipe it thoroughly using a cloth and water. The combination of ashes and butter will clean the area as well as disinfect your wooden floor.
White Vinegar Method
The white vinegar method is also one of the best ways to remove water stains from wood floors. You will need some white vinegar and olive oil. Mix vinegar in some amount with olive oil.
Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for about 15 minutes. After that, scrub off in a circular motion to remove the stains completely.
Make sure you are not using too much pressure when scrubbing since it might cause damage to your wooden floor. Lastly, wipe it with a clean cloth, and you will find your wooden floor shiny and beautiful.
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Water Mark Remover Method
If your floor has watermarks, then you can use watermark remover spray to remove it. Watermark removers are highly effective in removing surface stains from wood floors.
Apply this on the stained area and leave it for a few minutes till it properly dries. After that, try scrubbing the area using a soft cloth or brush.
Every remover has its own techniques, so pay attention to the instructions before using it since some need ample ventilation, while others may be used in confined areas without the use of protective gears.
Magic Eraser
Some of the water stains can be removed by using an ordinary magic eraser. It is a type of eraser that looks like a sponge and is very effective in removing stains from different surfaces.
To remove the water stain, all you need to do is wet the magic eraser slightly and start rubbing it over the stained area. It will help in lifting off any surface stains.
If you are dealing with deep stains, you can repeat the process a couple of times. This will help you remove the water stains from the wood floor and make it look shiny and new.
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Hardwood Floor Cleaner
Another method to remove water stains from the wood floor is by using a hardwood cleaner. These cleaners are meant for cleaning and restoring wooden floors, so you can use them on your stained wooden floor if it has been dulled out due to water stains.
To use this, use a damp cloth with the cleaner and wipe over the affected area. This will help you remove the stain and make your floor look bright again. You can get some hardwood cleaner from your nearby store or market.
Mineral Spirits Method
This is also a useful method for wooden floor water stains. Mineral spirits help in breaking down the surface of the stain and make it easy for you to wipe it away easily.
It can be used on very deep stains; however, make sure to use protective gear while using this, such as gloves and goggles, before applying it to your stained area.
You can simply add mineral spirit into a sprayer bottle and spray it on the affected stained area. Then start scrubbing that area gently and leave it for 5-10 minutes but make sure to remove excess mineral spirit before.
It might take time to dry off completely, so just let it dry off naturally without disturbing it. Keep in mind that this is very flammable, so make sure to keep your wooden floor free of any inflammable items while using this.
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Use Hair Dryer Or Iron Method
Another method to remove the stain is by using a dryer or iron. Place a piece of cloth on the stained area and then use hot iron or hairdryer in a low setting which helps in absorbing the stain faster.
This will remove the water stains from the wood floor at home without any hassles. Then you can see the results in seconds. You can use this solution more than one time, but make sure to dry it with natural heat.
You can repeat this process if the water stains are not completely removed after one attempt.
Steel Wool Method
Another effective method is using steel wool. This will not only remove the stain but also make your wooden floor shiny and new.
To use this, all you need to do is soak lemon oil the steel wool slightly in order to buff out stains. Then rub it over the stained area.
We recommend using lemon oil, or else you have to deal with scratches on your wood floor; also, use quality steel wool. This process may take some time, but the results are worth it.
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Petroleum Jelly Method
Another way to remove water stains from wood floors is by using petroleum jelly. All you need to do is rub some petroleum jelly on the affected area and let it sit for 24 hours, then gently wipe away with a cloth or tissue, and your stains will be gone within seconds.
This method is helpful in removing both surface and deep-seated stains. This might be a greasy task, but worth it as you will get a clean and clear floor.
Ways To Prevent Water Ring Marks On Wood Floor
To help prevent watermarks on the wood floors, there are various things that you can do, such as making sure that your floors are sealed. This will not only reduce the chances of water stains but also increase the durability and shine of your floor.
- You can prevent these is by wiping up liquid spills immediately when its wet.
- Regular cleaning of your floors with a dry mop or duster will make sure that small spills are picked up before they can create marks on the wood floor.
- Removing pet messes immediately before it enters deep in the wood floor can also reduce the chances of stains.
- Maintaining your wooden floor with a coating of varnish or stain protector can help in keeping it looking new for years to come.
- Using right tools like dust mop, vaccum cleaner, steam mop, micro-fiber floor pad and other tools in daily cleaning reduces the price of removing ingrained stains on the floor.
- Use a clean cloth to wipe away any remaining stains. After the mess is gone, apply an oil-based furniture polish to the region.
Final Verdict
The above-mentioned methods can help you with your query on how to remove water stains from wood floors. These remedies are easy to follow, and the most effective ways of making your wood floors look bright and new without buying costly cleaners or hiring professionals for cleaning.
All you need to do is follow these steps carefully and get that water stains removed from the wood floor. These methods are the best at-home remedies for removing stains from wooden floors fast.
If you have additional tips about how to remove water stains from wood floors, please share them in the comments section below.
