How to party-proof your flooring this Christmas
This is why you should spare a thought for your flooring this festive season.
Your flooring will bear the brunt of pretty much every activity this Christmas.
Guests will be coming and going, stiletto heels to and fro, and that’s not including over-excited little ones, and even pets. Then there’s potentially candle wax spillages and dropped needles from the Christmas tree.
Josh Burbridge, director of flooring at Atkinson & Kirby, provides some top festive floor tips that will let you enjoy the Christmas spirit without ruining your hard-earned, hardwood floors.
1. Dirt and Shoes
Will it snow this Christmas? A big risk to floors, especially during winter, is the combination of dirt, mud and grit that’s used on roads and paths to stop them being so slippery.
‘Grit can be one of the biggest floor destroyers as the rock salt leaves white residue and scratches if dragged along the floor,’ explains Josh. ‘A “no shoes inside” policy or asking guests to change their shoes at the door, and a ban on stilettos, is the ideal.
‘If that makes you feel like Scrooge, then invest in scrapers at the doorstep and mats inside every door. Even pets can track in grit and a handy tip is to keep baby wipes by the door so you can clean their paws quickly,’ he suggests.
2. Christmas trees
Nothing beats the scent of a real Christmas tree but sap, scratchy needles dropping on the floor and even the constant watering can be pitfalls.
‘It’s common sense to place your Christmas tree on a waterproof mat or bag that you can cover up with decorations and then if you over-water it won’t stain the floor,’ explains Josh. ‘Also invest in a funnel so you don’t overspill when watering as it can be hard to get around all the decorations.’
And remember to be extra careful when bringing the tree in and removing it. Josh says you should wrap it up to avoid scratches, and use a tree skirt when it’s up as needles can get into hard to reach nooks and crannies. You also don’t want people treading on them and trailing them around the house.
3. Spillages
Any gathering or party at home always comes with the risk of spillages – even amongst the best-behaved party guests.
‘Having paper towels, cloths and floor spray handy means you can act quickly on any spillages,’ says Josh. ‘Mop up spills as quickly as you can, then spray and blot. Also, clean regularly so you don’t get a build-up of mud or grit in the busy areas like hallways.’
4. Heating
With the heating usually on for longer during the winter months, remember that it can actually dry out floors, and in extreme cases, cause shrinking and cracks.
‘If you can’t bear to turn the heating down, add moisture by using a humidifier or strategically placing bowls of water in key areas,’ Josh suggests. ‘You can even make them part of your festive decorations with waterproof baubles.’
Original Article can be read here: HouseBeautiful.com