How to Remove White Film on a Wood Floor

Written By
Samantha Volz
Samantha Volz
Published: Nov 11, 2009
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read
  1. Spray Windex Original window cleaner onto a paper towel or soft cloth. Windex, as opposed to other window cleaners, is more likely to clean your floor without streaks. Wipe away the white film with Windex.

  2. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water into a bucket. Soak a cloth or mop in the cleaning solution and spread over the film. The vinegar will break down the film.

  3. Dry the vinegar and water solution with a clean towel. Don't allow water to dry on the surface of the wood, as with certain floors this will cause an even worse haze.

  4. Wash with Windex, vinegar and water or a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer of your floor in the future. White film is caused by using the wrong cleaner. Be sure you know what is right for your wooden floors before washing again.

Tips

You can also apply vinegar and water to a hardwood floor by mixing into a spray bottle and spraying on. When using this or the Windex, only spray a small area at a time, so that the cleaner doesn't dry on the surface of the wood.

Warnings

Never use wax, ammonia or oil soaps on a wood floor, as these can cause the white film, as well as ruin the wood itself.

Samantha Volz

Samantha Volz has been involved in journalistic and informative writing for over eight years. She holds a bachelor's degree in English literature from Lycoming College, Williamsport, Pennsylvania, with a minor in European history. In…

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