A deep clean starts by removing loose sand and dust, so nothing scratches the wood. Next comes a wood-safe cleaner applied with very little water to lift away grime and dull buildup. For the best results, a professional cleaning reaches the dirt in seams, edges, and corners that everyday mopping misses.

Engineered hardwood has a thin top layer of real wood, so treat it much like solid hardwood. Sweep or vacuum often, use a cleaner made for wood floors, and keep water to a minimum. Too much moisture can seep into the seams and damage the layers underneath.

Look for a pH-neutral cleaner made for hardwood floors, and use it with a damp (not wet) microfiber mop. Always check your flooring maker's care instructions first. When in doubt, gentle and simple is the safest choice.

Steam cleaning isn't a good idea for most hardwood floors. The heat and moisture can damage the finish and push water into the wood, which can cause swelling and warping. Many flooring makers say not to use steam at all.

Older floors may have a wax finish instead of a modern polyurethane finish, and each needs different care. A professional can help you figure out which finish you have. For old floors, gentle cleaning with very little water is always the safest place to start.

Skip vinegar, bleach, ammonia, harsh all-purpose cleaners, and steam mops. Avoid soaking your floors with water, too. Some oil soaps and wax products can leave a film that dulls the finish and makes future refinishing harder.

It's not the best choice. Vinegar is an acid, and using it often can dull your floor's finish over time. It should never be used on waxed or unfinished wood. A pH-neutral cleaner made for hardwood is a safer choice for regular cleaning.

Wipe up accidents right away, since urine can soak into the wood and leave dark stains and odors. Clean the spot with an enzyme cleaner made for wood floors. If the stain has turned dark or soaked deep into the wood, the area may need sanding, refinishing, or board replacement.

Use as little water as possible, a cleaner made for wood, and soft tools like microfiber mops. Avoid scrub brushes, harsh chemicals, and steam. In Las Vegas, removing gritty desert dust often is one of the best ways to protect your finish.

Place mats at your doors to catch sand and dust, and dust mop or vacuum a few times a week. Put felt pads under furniture legs, and take off shoes at the door if you can. In our dry climate, running a humidifier also helps keep your wood from drying out and cracking.