Have you ever wondered if you can really clean parquet flooring with bleach? It’s a very common question among those who have wooden floors at home and are looking for effective cleaning methods. However, using the wrong products can drastically shorten the lifespan of your flooring and damage its finish.
From Yvyra, experts in natural and technical wood flooring, we explain why bleach is not the best option and what safe alternatives you can use instead.
Why is bleach not suitable for parquet?
Bleach is a very aggressive chemical. Although effective as a disinfectant, it is not compatible with wooden floors, especially when it comes to parquet or floorboards with natural or oiled finishes. What can happen if you use bleach to mop the parquet?
- Wood discoloration: bleach can alter the original color of the floor, especially if it’s light oak or treated with natural finishes such as those offered by Yvyra in its 1OAK Único collection.
- Damage to varnish or oil: chemical products can erode the protective treatments of the parquet, leaving the surface vulnerable to stains and moisture.
- Reaction with humidity: if too much water is also used, the combination of moisture and bleach can cause the planks to swell or warp.
In short: no, you should not mop parquet with bleach, not even in small doses or diluted.
Alternatives to cleaning parquet with bleach
- Use products specifically for wood. The best option is to use neutral cleaners or special soaps for parquet, which respect the floor’s finish and do not alter its color or texture. These products are diluted in water and applied with a well-wrung mop.
- Warm water and neutral pH soap. If you don’t have a specialized product on hand, you can use warm water with a few drops of mild soap (like Marseille soap or neutral pH soap). Avoid over-wetting the floor. Remember that wooden floors are sensitive to excess water.
How to properly clean parquet
Now that we’ve clarified that you can’t mop parquet with bleach, here’s the correct method:
- Vacuum or sweep first to remove dust and particles that could scratch the surface.
- Use a slightly damp, not soaked, mop.
- Apply the specific wood floor cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Let it air dry without rinsing or wiping unless the product indicates otherwise.
Care based on your Yvyra floor type
At Yvyra, we offer various wood flooring collections, each with unique features requiring specific care:
1OAK Único
Multilayer oak floors with oiled or varnished finishes. Perfect for indoor spaces like bedrooms or living rooms. These floors should be cleaned without aggressive products and, if used frequently, periodic re-oiling is recommended to maintain the natural feel and shine.
Millésime
Aged, handcrafted woods like Roble Barolo or Roble Cora. Their artisanal treatment requires gentle maintenance. Never use bleach or degreasing products. Choose specific soft cleaning solutions instead.
Carácter
High-end solid wood floorboards, which allow for custom restoration and treatments. Here, it’s especially important to avoid corrosive products like bleach, which could compromise not only the finish but also the structural stability of the wood.
Exterpark TECH
Technical floors are more resistant to heavy use or humid areas. Although more moisture-resistant, bleach is still not recommended, as it could affect the surface and the magnetic clip system.
What to do if parquet has been damaged by bleach
If you accidentally mop the parquet with bleach and notice discoloration or loss of shine, all is not lost. You can:
- Lightly sand the affected area and apply a repair oil in the same tone (ideal for oiled floors).
- On varnished floors, it’s possible to apply a superficial protective layer of compatible varnish.
- In severe cases, consult a specialist to assess whether sanding and restoration is advisable.
All in all, the question “Can you mop the parquet with bleach?” has a clear answer: it is absolutely not recommended. While bleach is useful for other surfaces, on wooden floors it can cause irreversible damage to the color, finish, and structure of the parquet.
Wood is a living, noble, and aesthetically valuable material. With proper maintenance, Yvyra floors can last for decades in perfect condition. Choosing specific products, using gentle cleaning routines, and avoiding excess water are key to preserving their natural beauty.
Do you have questions about how to care for your floor or want to know which collection is best suited for your home? Visit us and get advice from experts in wood flooring.
