4 Ways to Remove Scratches from Hardwood Floors

Scratches can be a real eyesore on any surface, including hardwood floors. Hardwood floors are delicate and can easily get damaged by various factors. Most scratches on hardwood floors are caused by furniture and pets moving around.

However, sometimes scratches can appear out of nowhere, despite your careful attention to your hardwood floors. Over time, you may come across some unsightly scratches that are more difficult to fix.

Luckily, there are various ways to restore the natural look of your hardwood floors without too much hassle. However, it all depends on the severity of the scratches.

There are different types of scratches on hardwood floors, and each requires specific handling. Although hardwood floors are made with durability in mind, accidents can still happen.

That’s why it’s important to take care of even the smallest scratches to maintain the appearance of your hardwood floors for longer.

1. Use a Wood Stain Marker

The first method to hide scratches on hardwood floors is to use a wood stain marker. This method works well for shallow scratches.

Wood stain markers come in a wide range of colors, and you can find them at various home goods stores, hardware stores, and paint stores.

To start, wipe the scratched area clean with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Before using the marker, test it on an inconspicuous area to see if it matches the color of the wood. Then, apply the marker by rubbing its tip onto the scratch several times.

If the area looks too bright, repeat the process until it blends in with the surrounding wood.

Also Read: How to Easily Remove Backgrounds from Photos Using Canva

2. Apply a Protective Coating

The next method to remove scratches from hardwood floors is to apply a protective coating. This method can fix deeper scratches.

Before applying the coating, clean the scratched area with a damp microfiber cloth and a small amount of hardwood floor cleaner. Remove any contaminants, such as dust particles, and rinse the area with another damp cloth.

Make sure the area is dry before proceeding. Then, take a small-bristled brush and carefully apply a thin layer of the protective coating to the damaged area.

Ideally, you should find out what type of coating is used for your hardwood floors. Some common ones include lacquer, sealant, or various types of polyurethane varnish.

3. Rub the Scratched Area

To use this method, first, clean the scratched area on your hardwood floor. Like the previous method, use a soft cloth and a small amount of hardwood floor cleaner to wipe the area and remove any dirt and debris.

After rinsing the area with a cloth dampened in water and removing any traces of the cleaner, let the area dry completely.

Once the area is dry, take a piece of fine-grit sandpaper and sand the scratched area in the direction of the grain. Then, wipe away the dust with a damp cloth and let the area dry again.

Finally, apply a thin layer of hardwood floor wax to the scratched area, let it dry, and then buff the area with a soft cloth.

4. Use Steel Wool

For this method, you will need some steel wool, a small amount of hardwood floor cleaner, and a soft cloth. Clean the scratched area with the hardwood floor cleaner and a damp cloth, making sure to remove any dirt and debris.

After rinsing the area with a cloth dampened in water and removing any traces of the cleaner, let the area dry completely.

Then, take a piece of steel wool and rub the scratched area with it. Make sure to rub along the grain of the wood. This will remove the scratches and smooth out the surface of the hardwood floor.