How To Remove Scuff Marks From Hardwood Floors

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A hardwood floor adds value to a home, but isn't always easy to clean. Wood floors, as opposed to tile, are softer and are easier to damage with cleaning solvents. Scuffs on a hardwood floor are common, whether they came from hard-soled shoes, kids or pets. You can remove them without resorting to abrasives that may damage your hardwoods.

Step 1

Wipe the scuff mark with a wet sponge. Take a pink rubber eraser, the kind you used in elementary school, and rub with the grain of the wood. If this isn't strong enough, you can find scuff erasers at a hardware store. They are just harder rubber. Do not use a plastic or gritty eraser, this will damage wood floor.

Step 2

Rub a clean tennis ball over the scuff with the grain of the wood. You can put it on the end of a mop or broomstick by cutting an "X" in it and sticking it on the end of the stick. This way you can stand instead of kneel to clean the spot. This is a good technique if you have frequent scuffs.

Step 3

Mix baking soda and a small amount of water into a paste. Rub it gently onto the scuff with a sponge or toothbrush. A non-gel toothpaste may be used as well. These are both mild natural abrasives. Work in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Dry it off with a soft towel when the scuff is gone.