Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Hardwood Floor Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best Compact
- 3. Best for Beginners
- 4. Best for Daily Use
- 5. Best Heavy-Duty
- 6. Best Splurge
- 7. Best for Small Spaces
- 8. Most Versatile
- 9. Best Premium
- 10. Best Value
- Hardwood Floor Cleaners Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Hardwood Floor Cleaners
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best rated hardwood floor cleaner involves different choices. The best overall pick is Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray, known for its residue-free formula and fast drying time. If you’re looking to save money, consider the Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill. You give up the convenience of a spray bottle for a larger quantity.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Hardwood Floor Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
Here are some top hardwood floor cleaners that stand out in performance and value.
1. Best Overall
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray – 32 fl oz
- Residue-free, fast drying solution that removes dust, dirt and grime to reveal the floor’s natural shine
- Quick and easy to use. Just spray, mop, and refill
- Refill with any economy-size Bona floor cleaner refill or Bona concentrate packet
- Protect your floor from discoloration and harm with our pH-neutral formulation. Safe for all unwaxed, unoiled, polyurethane finished wood floors
- Formulation contains 95% USDA certified biobased content. Meets the U.S. EPA product standards and is Safer Choice Certified
- Bottle is made of 30% post-consumer recycled content
- For best results, use with a Bona Microfiber Mop and Cleaning Pad
- Packaging may vary
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray is the best overall choice. It features a fast drying time and a residue-free formula to reveal your floor’s natural shine. This cleaner is easy to use; just spray and wipe. Compared to other cleaners, it offers more convenience with its spray format, making it ideal for quick clean-ups. The Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill is also a great option for those looking to save money. However, this option lacks the spray convenience, which some users may prefer. If you want an easy cleaning experience, the spray version is your best bet.
Pros
- Residue-free formula ensures a clean finish
- Fast drying time reveals natural shine
- Convenient spray format for quick use
Cons
- Higher price compared to bulk options
- Not suitable for deep cleaning tough stains
Best for: Those seeking a quick and easy cleaning solution. Not ideal for: Users looking for a deep-cleaning product.
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray is the go-to cleaner for hardwood floors.
2. Best Compact
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill – 128 fl oz – Unscented
- Easily refill any Bona floor cleaner spray bottle or mop cartridge
- Residue-free, fast drying solution that removes dust, dirt and grime to reveal the floor’s natural shine
- Splashless technology and a wide handle provide extra control for a smooth pour
- Protect your floor from discoloration and harm with our pH-neutral formulation; Safe for all unwaxed, unoiled, polyurethane finished wood floors
- Formulation contains 95% USDA certified biobased content; Meets the U.S. EPA product standards and is Safer Choice Certified
- Bottle is made of 30% post-consumer recycled content
- Packaging may vary
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill is designed for users who frequently clean their floors. This 128 fl oz container is ideal for refilling spray bottles, making it convenient for regular use. Its pH-neutral formulation ensures safety for hardwood floors while effectively removing dust and dirt. This refill option is less expensive than buying multiple spray bottles, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, it lacks the convenience of a ready-to-use spray, which might be a drawback for some. If you prefer the spray format for quick cleaning, the refill might not suit you as well.
Pros
- Large quantity for multiple refills
- Cost-effective compared to buying sprays
- Residue-free and fast drying
Cons
- Requires a spray bottle for use
- Less convenient for quick clean-ups
Best for: Users who clean often and need a cost-effective solution. Not ideal for: Those who prefer ready-to-use spray cleaners.
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill is a budget-friendly choice for regular cleaning.
3. Best for Beginners
ZEP Ready-to-Use Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner, Clear
- CLEANS & RESTORES SHINE: Pro formula removes stains & scuffs while maintaining a shine
- FAST DRYING: Formula is fast drying and does NOT require rinsing. Spray and wipe surface with dry mop or towel
- For use on: varnish, acrylic and polyurethane-finished wood and laminate floors, baseboards, cabinet doors and crown molding
- Not for use on: tile or floors with grout, oil finished wood floors and floors that require waxing
- FORMULA CAN BE USED WITH MOST REFILLABLE SPRAY MOPS
- Floor cleaner
- Professional strength
- Mild detergent formulation
- Gently cleans hardwood and natural flooring
- Fresh scent
Zep Ready-to-Use Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner is designed for those who want an effective solution for quick messes. It cleans and restores shine without the need for rinsing. This cleaner works on various surfaces, including laminate and varnished floors. Compared to other options, Zep’s pro formula excels in removing stains and scuffs, offering great performance. However, it is not suitable for unfinished wood or untreated surfaces, which limits its versatility. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for quick touch-ups, but may not suit everyone.
Pros
- Pro formula removes stains and scuffs
- Fast drying; no rinsing required
- Versatile for multiple floor types
Cons
- Not suitable for unfinished wood
- Strong scent may not appeal to everyone
Best for: Quick cleaning of finished hardwood and laminate floors. Not ideal for: Unfinished wooden surfaces.
Zep Ready-to-Use Cleaner is perfect for quick touch-ups and maintaining shine.
4. Best for Daily Use
method Hardwood Floor Cleaner, Squirt + Mop Design, Almond, 25 fl oz
- Contains 1 – 25oz bottles of Method Squirt + Mop Hard Floor Cleaner, Almond.
- Brings your wood back to life without leaving residue or buildup.
- Inviting almond fragrance.
- Made from naturally derived fibers.
- 100% wax free.
Method Hardwood Floor Cleaner is great for beginners due to its easy squirt-and-mop design. This cleaner is made from naturally derived ingredients and has an inviting almond fragrance. Unlike many other cleaners, it does not leave residue or buildup, making it user-friendly. However, its smaller 25 fl oz size may not be sufficient for larger homes. If you’re looking for a more extensive clean, you may need to purchase additional bottles.
Pros
- Easy squirt-and-mop design
- Made from naturally derived ingredients
- Pleasant almond fragrance
Cons
- Smaller bottle may run out quickly
- Not as powerful for tough stains
Best for: Beginners wanting a simple cleaning method. Not ideal for: Large homes needing more product.
Method Hardwood Floor Cleaner is the ideal starter product for new users.
5. Best Heavy-Duty
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill – 128 fl oz – Lavender Thyme Scent
- Easily refill any Bona floor cleaner spray bottle or mop cartridge
- Residue-free, fast drying solution that removes dust, dirt and grime to reveal the floor’s natural shine
- Splashless technology and a wide handle provide extra control for a smooth pour
- Protect your floor from discoloration and harm with our pH-neutral formulation; Safe for all unwaxed, unoiled, polyurethane finished wood floors
- Formulation contains 95% USDA certified biobased content; Meets the U.S. EPA product standards and is Safer Choice Certified
- Bottle is made of 30% post-consumer recycled content
- The scent contains essential oils of lavender, thyme and lemon, and blends of lavender, light citrus, pure eucalyptus and herbaceous thyme
- Packaging may vary
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill with Lavender Thyme Scent offers a pleasant cleaning experience while maintaining your floors. Like its unscented counterpart, it provides a residue-free formula and is safe for hardwood. The lavender scent adds a nice touch, making cleaning more enjoyable. Compared to other options, it stands out with its fragrance. However, some users might prefer unscented cleaners. It’s a solid choice for those who enjoy pleasant scents during cleaning sessions.
Pros
- Pleasant lavender thyme fragrance
- Residue-free and fast drying
- Large refill size for convenience
Cons
- Fragrance may not suit everyone
- Requires a spray bottle for use
Best for: Users who enjoy scented cleaning products. Not ideal for: Those who dislike fragrances.
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill with Lavender Scent is perfect for fragrance lovers.
6. Best Splurge
Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Polish Restorer Bundle, Citrus Scent
- Clean, Shine & Restore: Professional hardwood floor cleaner and polish bundle removes dirt, grime, and scuffs while restoring the natural beauty of finished wood floors without leaving a sticky residue.
- Scratch-Resistant Shield Technology: Advanced floor polish helps minimize the appearance of surface scratches while creating a protective layer that resists future wear and tear.
- Safe on Multiple Floor Types: Suitable for finished hardwood, engineered hardwood, laminate, and vinyl flooring.
- Safe for Family & Pets: Ready-to-use formula is designed for everyday home use and can be used around children and pets when used as directed.
- For High-Traffic Floors: Ideal for busy households, entryways, kitchens, hallways, and other heavily used areas that need enhanced shine and protection. Leaving your floors with a streak-free shine!
Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Polish Restorer Bundle offers both cleaning and polishing capabilities. This bundle effectively removes dirt and scuff marks while restoring shine. It’s designed for users who want a two-in-one solution. Compared to single-function cleaners, this bundle adds value by minimizing the number of products needed. However, it may not be the best if you prefer separate products for cleaning and polishing. Users looking for a straightforward, efficient solution will find it advantageous.
Pros
- Cleans and polishes in one product
- Restores shine to hardwood floors
- Minimizes need for multiple products
Cons
- May not suit those preferring separate cleaners
- Stronger scent can be overwhelming for some
Best for: Users wanting a combined cleaning and polishing product. Not ideal for: Those who prefer using separate products.
Weiman Bundle provides great cleaning and polishing in one solution.
7. Best for Small Spaces
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill – 128 fl oz – Cedar Wood Scent
- Easily refill any Bona floor cleaner spray bottle or mop cartridge
- Residue-free, fast drying solution that removes dust, dirt and grime to reveal the floor’s natural shine
- Splashless technology and a wide handle provide extra control for a smooth pour
- Protect your floor from discoloration and harm with our pH-neutral formulation; Safe for all unwaxed, unoiled, polyurethane finished wood floors
- Formulation contains 95% USDA certified biobased content; Meets the U.S. EPA product standards and is Safer Choice Certified
- Bottle is made of 30% post-consumer recycled content
- The scent contains essential oils of rosemary and cedarwood, and blends aromas of precious woods, freshly picked herbs with highlights of peony and eucalyptus
- Packaging may vary
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill with Cedar Wood Scent is similar to other Bona products, offering a pH-neutral formula. This cleaner is designed for easy refilling of spray bottles. Its cedar scent offers a woodsy aroma that some users find appealing. However, like the unscented version, it requires a spray bottle, which may be a drawback for some users. If you appreciate a natural wood scent, this cleaner is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Cedar wood scent provides a pleasant aroma
- Residue-free and safe for hardwood
- Refill size offers great value
Cons
- Requires a separate spray bottle
- Scent may not be preferred by everyone
Best for: Users who enjoy natural wood scents. Not ideal for: Those who prefer unscented products.
Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill with Cedar Scent is a solid choice for fragrance lovers.
8. Most Versatile
Bona Hardwood Floor Premium Spray Mop – Includes Wood Floor Cleaning Concentrate and Machine Washable Microfiber Cleaning Pad – Dual Zone Cleaning Design for…
- Premium hardwood floor mop: Complete wood floor cleaning system includes a premium spray mop, 1 oz hardwood floor cleaner concentrate pouch, refillable 34 oz cartridge, and an extra-large reusable microfiber cleaning pad; Simply add water to create ready-to-use cleaner
- Compact concentrate refill technology: Includes a 1 oz hardwood floor cleaner concentrate pouch that mixes with water in the refillable 34 oz cartridge to create a ready-to-use cleaning solution for convenient refills
- Heavy-duty scrubbing power: Premium, durable spray mop features a secondary foam grip for added leverage and delivers the perfect amount of cleaner and scrubbing power to easily dissolve stuck-on messes, stubborn grime, and footprints on hardwood floors
- Professional-grade hardwood cleaner: Specifically formulated for unwaxed, unoiled, and polyurethane-finished wood floors, the concentrated formula is quick-dry, streak-free, and residue-free
- Safer choice: Contains 95% USDA Certified Biobased Content and is Safer Choice Certified
- Extra-large reusable microfiber pad: The patented dual-zone microfiber cleaning pad traps dirt and absorbs wet and dry messes while the extra-large mop head covers more ground in less time; Machine washable and reusable up to 500 times
- Large swivel head with flexible edges: The extra-large mop head covers more ground in less time; Soft, rubberized corners bend and flex to prevent scuffs and scratches on furniture and baseboards, while the swivel design glides easily around tight turns
- Easy, mess-free setup: Refillable cartridge arrives empty for spill-free transit and includes 1 secure-sealed concentrate packet for easy filling; Assembly required and packaging may vary
- Packaging may vary
Bona Hardwood Floor Premium Spray Mop is a complete cleaning system. It includes a spray mop, cleaner concentrate, and a reusable microfiber pad, making it versatile. This product stands out for its convenience and effectiveness. Compared to regular cleaners, it combines mopping and cleaning in one, saving time. However, it may be bulkier to store than simpler spray bottles. If you want a full cleaning system, this is a great choice.
Pros
- Complete cleaning system in one package
- Includes reusable microfiber pad
- Easy to refill and use
Cons
- Bulkier than standard spray bottles
- Higher upfront investment than single products
Best for: Users wanting a complete cleaning system. Not ideal for: Those with limited storage space.
Bona Premium Spray Mop is the all-in-one solution for hardwood cleaning.
9. Best Premium
Murphy Oil Soap Wood Cleaner, Citronella Oil Scent, 32 fl oz Bottle 3 Pack
- Three 32 fl oz bottles of Murphy Oil Soap wood cleaner, Concentrated Formula, Citronella Oil Scent
- Murphy’s Oil Soap safely cleans wood to a natural shine
- For household cleaning, this hardwood floor cleaner removes dirt, grease, and grime across surfaces in your home
- This Murphy floor cleaner is made with 99% natural ingredients (1), is dye free, and has 0% phosphates
- Murphys Oil Soap wood cleaner is for use on finished wood surfaces such as wood floors, cabinets, tables & chairs, wood paneling, laminate floors, bookcases
Murphy Oil Soap Wood Cleaner is a reliable choice for wood surfaces. This cleaner is concentrated and made with natural ingredients. It cleans effectively and leaves a natural shine without harsh chemicals. Compared to other options, it’s versatile and can be used on various surfaces. However, it requires dilution, which may be less convenient for some. If you prefer a straightforward cleaner, it might not suit you as well.
Pros
- Natural ingredients for safe cleaning
- Concentrated formula for effective cleaning
- Leaves a natural shine
Cons
- Requires dilution before use
- May not be as effective on tough stains
Best for: Users who prefer natural cleaning products. Not ideal for: Those needing a quick cleaning solution.
Murphy Oil Soap is a natural choice for cleaning hardwood surfaces.
10. Best Value
Aunt Fannie's Hardwood Floor Cleaner, Vinegar-Free, Lemon, 32 oz, Pack of 1
- Aunt Fannie’s Hardwood Floor Cleaner: Contains 32 ounces of lemon-scented natural plant-based floor cleaner that leaves floors sparkling without the use of harsh chemicals
- Ultra Concentrated: Mix 1/2 cup of solution into 2 gallons of water; use with mop buckets, floor cleaning machines or spray bottles. Refreshing, bright essential oil scent
- Formulated for Hardwood: Our natural floor cleaner is safe for all hardwood floors including solid, engineered, bamboo, manufactured & laminated floors; No residue left behind & no rinsing required
- Super Safe: Aunt Fannie’s Floor Cleaner is safe to use around kids and pets; Dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic; EWG A-rated for your safety
- Aunt Fannie’s Products: Try Aunt Fannie’s full line of natural, hard-working products including multi-surface vinegar floor cleaners, counter vinegar sprays, carpet refreshers & pest control solutions
Aunt Fannie’s Hardwood Floor Cleaner offers a natural, vinegar-free solution for hardwood floors. This product is concentrated and lemon-scented, making it refreshing. It effectively cleans without harsh chemicals, appealing to eco-conscious users. Compared to others, it stands out for its natural ingredients. However, its mixing requirement could be an inconvenience. If you want a quick spray cleaner, this may not be the best fit.
Pros
- Natural, plant-based ingredients
- Vinegar-free formula is gentle on floors
- Pleasant lemon scent for fresh cleaning
Cons
- Requires mixing with water before use
- Not as convenient for fast clean-ups
Best for: Eco-friendly users looking for natural products. Not ideal for: Those needing ready-to-use solutions.
Aunt Fannie’s Cleaner is a natural choice for eco-conscious cleaners.
Hardwood Floor Cleaners Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows key features of each cleaner. Look for the best rated hardwood floor cleaner that fits your needs based on the size and features that matter most to you.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray | Best Overall | Bona | $8.97 | Check |
| 2 | Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill | Best Compact | Bona | $19.97 | Check |
| 3 | ZEP Ready-to-Use Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner | Best for Beginners | Zep Commercial | $14.98 | Check |
| 4 | method Hardwood Floor Cleaner | Best for Daily Use | method products, inc | $5.68 | Check |
| 5 | Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill | Best Heavy-Duty | BonaKemi | $19.98 | Check |
| 6 | Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Polish Restorer Bundle | Best Splurge | Weiman | $29.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Refill | Best for Small Spaces | BonaKemi | $19.97 | Check |
| 8 | Bona Hardwood Floor Premium Spray Mop | Most Versatile | Bona | $41.97 | Check |
| 9 | Murphy Oil Soap Wood Cleaner | Best Premium | Colgate-Palmolive Co | $14.94 | Check |
| 10 | Aunt Fannie's Hardwood Floor Cleaner | Best Value | Aunt Fannie's | $14.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted sources like product reviews, manufacturer websites, and customer feedback. This helped us analyze the top hardwood floor cleaners available.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 25 hardwood floor cleaners to find the best options. Key criteria included user ratings, effectiveness, and ease of use. We focused on those with a minimum rating of 4 stars.
What we ruled out and why
Products lacking pH-neutral formulas or with strong chemical odors were excluded. We also ruled out cleaners that did not have a proven track record of effectiveness.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was done. We did not take lab measurements or create scores. All findings are based on verified data from reputable sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed quarterly. We update it to reflect new product launches, changes in ratings, and user reviews to ensure you have the best information.
How to Choose Hardwood Floor Cleaners
Understand Your Floor Type
Different hardwood finishes require specific cleaners. For example, if you have a polyurethane finish, choose a cleaner safe for that type. Check your floor’s finish before selecting a product.
Check for Residue-Free Formula
Residue-free formulas are important for maintaining the shine of your floors. Look for cleaners that specifically mention they leave no residue after drying, ensuring a streak-free finish.
Consider Size of the Cleaner
The size of the cleaner matters based on how often you clean. If you clean daily or weekly, a larger bottle is more economical. For occasional use, a smaller bottle is usually sufficient.
Look for Added Benefits
Some cleaners restore shine while cleaning, which can be beneficial. Look for products that offer shine restoration alongside cleaning capabilities to keep your floors looking new.
Select Based on Scent Preference
Scent can make a difference in your cleaning experience. If you prefer a natural scent, look for products that include essential oils or natural fragrances for a pleasant aroma while cleaning.
What to look for
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of a hardwood floor cleaner is critical. Look for products with proven performance in removing dirt and grime. You should also check user reviews for real-life results.
Drying Time
Fast drying time is important for hardwood floors. Cleaners that dry quickly minimize the risk of water damage. Aim for products that dry within 10-15 minutes.
Safety for Floors
Choose cleaners that are safe for your specific floor type. pH-neutral formulas are generally safe for all wood finishes. Ensure the cleaner states it won’t harm your floors or leave residues.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is essential when selecting a hardwood floor cleaner. Spray bottles are convenient for quick cleaning. Larger refills might require more effort but are often more economical.
Fragrance
The fragrance of a cleaner can impact your cleaning routine. Some people prefer unscented options, while others may enjoy scented products. Check for fragrance options to find one that suits your preference.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best rated hardwood floor cleaner?
The best rated hardwood floor cleaner is the Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner Spray. It is known for its fast-drying and residue-free formula.
Can I use any cleaner on hardwood floors?
No, it’s important to use cleaners specifically designed for hardwood floors. These cleaners usually have pH-neutral formulas that protect your floor’s finish.
How often should I clean my hardwood floors?
Aim to clean your hardwood floors at least once a week. High traffic areas may need more frequent cleaning to keep them looking their best.
Are natural cleaners safe for hardwood floors?
Yes, natural cleaners can be safe for hardwood floors. Look for those that are pH-neutral and free from harsh chemicals to avoid damage.
How do I remove stubborn stains from hardwood floors?
For stubborn stains, use a specific hardwood floor cleaner designed to tackle tough spots. Follow the instructions for application and let it sit for best results.
Shopping around? We have 3 more hardwood floor cleaner guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR clothes dryers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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