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What's the best green way to clean hardwood (poly-coated) wood floors? I've tried a vinegar and water solution, but it doesn't seem to really clean the floor. (If I wipe the floor with a damp paper towel, there's a dirty residue on the towel). Please advise. Thanks so much!
-- Amy, Charlotte NC
Using just about anything on coated wood floors is problematic. Water and vinegar are both considered no-no's for different reasons. Water can seep through the coating and cause water stains. Vinegar can dull the finish. Oil soaps leave too much residue! The solution is to damp mop a few times until the floor is clean. If you use any detergent at all make sure it is very mild and only use it if the dirt simply won't be removed using the damp mop technique.
