How to keep timber floors dirt free?

Question:I am thinking of getting rid of my carpet and getting timber floors. My house is flat on the ground, we have lots of doors, we have kids, I have an untrained hubby, so I am worried that I will be a slave to the new floors.. How often do you sweep or dust your hardfloors? At least my carpet hides lots of dirt until I vaccuum it.

Answers:
Wood Floor Maintenance
Most wood floors can be kept clean by first sweeping or vacuuming with a floor nozzle to remove most of the surface dust and dirt, then damp mopping with clear water (dip a sponge in clear water, squeezing it out so that the mop is barely damp, almost dry). Use very little water and rinse your mop thoroughly after each use since excess water can dissolve protective coatings, alter the color of the wood and raise the grain to roughen the surface.

If your floors are not dirty enough to need mopping every week, then you should not do it, as it will wear the floors faster, not to mention waste your time. Simply sweeping is often all they need.

If need to restore the shine to your wood floor after you get it clean, try damp mopping it with 1/2 cup vinegar and 2 tablespoons furniture polish in a gallon of warm water. Vinegar is also useful for removing any soap residue or build-up, but should not be necessary every week Good luck!...=)