Never vacuum without a soft brush attachment, as this can scratch the floor permanently. [1] X Research source
You may use another mild, pH-neutral cleaner, but test it underneath furniture first to see if it leaves a mark. Go easy if using dish soap or another sudsy cleaner, as too much of it can leave a soapy film on the floor. [3] X Research source
If the spill has caused a stain, use the vinegar or detergent solution described above. Repeat with a more concentrated solution if necessary, or look for a specialized cork floor cleaning product.
If the floor has a polyurethane finish, rent a floor machine and 00-grade wool disks. Reapply the finish after cleaning. If the floor has a wax finish, clean with liquid solvent wax. If this doesn’t do the trick, use a buffer (low-speed floor machine) with 00 steel wool disks, followed by lamb’s wool disks and another application of wax.
If you have house plants, put trays or basins underneath them to catch any water that overflows or leaks from the pot.
Typically, to apply polyurethane, gently abrade the floor and roll on the finish using a foam roller. Leave it untouched for 24–48 hours. Follow the instructions on your finish label if it gives contradictory advice. Floor-stripping chemicals may harm the cork. To avoid having to use them, stick with the same type of finish each time. A typical home may get 5–10 years of use out of a polyurethane finish, or 1. 5–2 years from wax. [8] X Research source Cork floors in busy public buildings or businesses may need sealing every few months.
