Newer wood floors are almost always sealed with a polyurethane (plastic) finish. In the "olden days" wood floors were varnished, lacquered, treated with oils, or unfinished, leaving them more vulnerable to water damage. Still one should use no more water than necessary to carry away the dirt.

Here are some pointers on how to care for your wood floor. Protect them from scratches from furniture, heels, pet claws, and grit. Use area rugs in areas of high traffic and mats by outside entrances. Clean up spills and stains promptly. Clean often. Sweep, vacuum, or dust-mop frequently. Know the finish. If you cannot feel the finish or grain of the wood with your finger tips, it is probably sealed with a plastic-type finish. If you can feel the grain of the wood, you must use only products that are recommended for unfinished floors. Otherwise you may lightly damp mop your wood floor as needed, right after you sweep, vacuum, or dust-mop. Use a product recommended for your kind of floor with a microfiber mop pad that is only dampened, not saturated with water. Refinish when the time is right. When you can no longer get the desired results from regular maintenance, it may be time to refinish your floor to restore its natural beauty.