How to Get Rid of Scratches on Hardwood Floors So They Shine Like New

Wood floors are beautiful, but over time, they endure quite a bit of wear and tear, namely scratches. Not only are these blemishes unsightly, but they can create long-term problems for your hardwood floors. When the finish is damaged, the bare wood underneath is exposed, allowing dirt and moisture to penetrate more easily, which leads to warping and staining over time.

The solution is to fix these scratches as soon as possible. Fortunately, you don't always have to call a professional or use a sander to get the job done—there are plenty of easy, DIY methods that can remove hardwood floor scratches.

The Walnut Method

Yes, you can use a walnut to remedy scratches on wood flooring. "[They] contain natural oils and brown pigments that darken and blend scratches," says Alicia Sokolowksi, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. However, she notes, this method only works on very light scratches.

Here's how to do it:

1. Clean the floor with a microfiber cloth.
2. Break a shelled walnut in half.
3. Rub the walnut along the scratch. Follow the direction of the wood grain.
4. Let the oils sit for a few minutes.
5. Buff the area with a clean microfiber cloth.

The Olive Oil and Vinegar Method

For deeper scratches, you'll need to try a different method. Sokolowski recommends using a mix of olive oil and vinegar. "The oil fills the scratch, while vinegar helps clean and slightly darken the exposed wood," she says. "It works like magic."

Simply follow these steps:

1. Mix half a cup of olive oil with half a cup of vinegar.
2. Dip a soft cloth in the mixture and rub it into the scratch, following the wood grain.
3. Wipe off any excess mixture. 

If you don't have olive oil on hand, cooking oil can work too. This might not be completely effective on first application, however—if the scratch is particularly deep, then you may need to repeat the process multiple times.

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The Wax Method

Another way to fix minor scratches is by using a wax crayon. Choose one that's specifically formulated for wood surfaces, says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid. Simply follow these instructions.

1. Choose a crayon that matches your floor color.
2. Heat it lightly with a blow dryer or heat gun
3. Rub the wax into the scratch, filling it completely.
4. Buff with a clean microfiber cloth, blending it with the surrounding floor.
5. Allow it to cool and harden—don't walk on the floor until it does.
   

The Steel Wool Method

Sokolowski recommends this method, but never use it on a floor with a water-based, poly finish. "Steel wool is generally safer on oil-based or older finishes when used very gently," she says.

Follow these steps:

1. Clean the area.
2. Test on a hidden area first. Make sure the finish reacts well.
3. Using very light pressure, rub superfine steel wool over the scratch or scuff in the direction of the wood grain. Check often and stop as soon as the scratch blends. Don't rub back and forth across the grain.
4. Remove metal fibers and dust with a vacuum, followed by a tack cloth.
5. Apply a thin layer of paste wax with a soft cloth, working it into the area and just beyond.
6. Buff with a clean microfiber cloth until the sheen is even.

When you're done, make sure to dispose of the steel wool properly. "Either drop it in water before disposal or place it in a sealed metal container, as oil-soaked steel wool can be a fire hazard," says Sokolowski.

Also, be careful not to overdo it. If you notice the finish dulling or patches forming, stop immediately—you may have removed too much of the finish.