How to Clean Wooden Stairs in Five Steps

Wooden stairs can add timeless elegance to your home, but they require proper cleaning and maintenance to preserve their beauty. Whether you have interior or exterior wooden stairs, understanding the right techniques is crucial. 

Explore this guide made by our experts at iStairs detailing the precise steps for cleaning wooden stairs and staircase railings. Our techniques guarantee a polished and enduring appeal, elevating the aesthetic of your space.

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Let’s start the cleaning process!

1. Gather Essential Supplies

To clean your wooden stairs effectively, gather the following supplies:

• • • • • Broom or dust brush
        • Suitable cleaning solution compatible with your stairs’ sealant
        • Terry cloth or microfiber-covered mop for applying the cleaner.
        • Large rag for wiping off excess cleaner.
        • Scrubbing brush for stubborn stains (for exterior stairs)
        • Sealant for exterior stairs’ protection against elements

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2. Preparing for Cleaning Wood Stairs

Determine the finish of the wood – surface finish (shiny) or penetrating finish (matte with oil or wax). Avoid using ammonia on wood surfaces. For interior stairs, use a frayed-tipped broom or dust mop to remove dust and debris. For exterior stairs, start by sweeping the staircase from top to bottom.

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3. Cleaning Interior Wooden Stairs

The best and fastest way to clean your interior stairs is as follows:

1. Apply the cleaning solution on each stair using a microfiber cloth, ensuring even coverage.
2. Let the solution soak for a few minutes before wiping each stair again with a clean rag.
3. Avoid waxing the stairs to prevent creating a slippery surface.

4. Cleaning Exterior Wooden Stairs

Cleaning exterior wooden stairs requires careful attention and the right approach to prevent damage. Here are three basics to clean exterior wooden stairs effectively:

1. Use a generic kitchen cleaning solution and a scrubbing brush for exterior stairs.
2. Scrub each step thoroughly and rinse the entire staircase with warm water.
3. To conclude, simply pat dry the stairs using a clean, dry cloth.

5. Cleaning the Staircase Railing

The final step is cleaning the staircase railing. This is essential for maintaining the overall cleanliness and appearance of your staircase. 

We recommend you use the same cleaning solution and technique applied to the stairs. Start by wiping the railing with a cloth soaked in the cleaning solution, ensuring no residue is left behind.

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Extra Tips for Stair Cleaning

• Regularly dust and sweep your stairs to prevent dirt buildup.
• Avoid using abrasive brushes or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the wood.
• Consider applying a sealant on exterior stairs to protect them from weather damage.
• For stubborn stains, gently scrub the affected area with a soft brush soaked in the cleaning solution.

By following this steps you can ensure your wooden stairs and railing maintain their beauty for years to come. If you have any specific questions about cleaning or maintaining your stairs, feel free to reach out to us at iStairs Sacramento. We’re here to help you keep your wooden stairs in pristine condition!