How to Protect Hardwood Floors from Pets, Kids & Guests
Your hardwood floors are a major investment—and when they look great, your whole home shines. Whether you’ve got little kids racing around, a dog that slides into the kitchen every morning, or friends who love to linger a little too long over wine, your floors can take a beating if not properly protected.
If you’ve ever wondered how to protect hardwood floors from pets, spills, or party traffic—this guide has you covered. Here are a few smart, simple tips to keep your floors looking beautiful, no matter how full (or furry) your house is.
1. Use Felt Pads on Furniture Legs
Chairs, tables, barstools, and even the legs of your couch can scratch hardwood floors over time. Felt pads are an inexpensive but essential way to prevent damage—especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and dining rooms.
Pro Tip: Replace felt pads every few months, especially after deep cleaning.
2. Trim Pet Nails Regularly
Dogs and cats with long nails can leave tiny scratches that dull your floor’s finish. Regular trims—every 3–4 weeks—help prevent pet scratches on your hardwood floors and your pets’ paws.
You can also keep a small mat near the door to catch moisture and dirt after walks.
3. Add Rugs or Runners in High-Traffic Areas
Entryways, hallways, and under dining tables can take a lot of wear. Area rugs or runners protect your floors while also adding comfort and warmth to the space.
Look for rugs with natural backings (not rubber) and use a breathable rug pad underneath to prevent discoloration.
4. Keep Spills and Grit Under Control
Spills, food, and dirt can scratch or stain if not cleaned quickly. For families with small kids, make cleanup part of the daily routine—especially near dining areas.
We recommend a gentle hardwood cleaner like Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner.
5. Let a Robot Help You Out
If you're juggling kids, pets, or a busy work schedule, a robot vacuum can be a game changer. These smart little machines help keep dust, dirt, and pet hair under control—especially in homes with active lifestyles.
Look for models designed specifically for hardwood floors (not thick rugs), and avoid ones with harsh brushes or water tanks.
We recommend the iRobot Roomba j7+ or Roborock Q Revo — both are hardwood-safe, programmable, and can clean on a schedule while you’re away.
Pro Tip: Make sure to empty the bin often and avoid models with rotating bristle bars that can scuff your finish.
6. Use Floor Protectors for Parties and Events
Entertaining? Consider putting down temporary floor protectors or extra mats in areas with heavy foot traffic. High heels and shoes with grit can cause dents or scratches.
Ask guests to remove shoes, or provide a shoe tray at the door for convenience.
7. Choose the Right Finish Up Front
Let’s be honest—some floors just aren’t built to handle real life. But Jakestone floors are.
We only use top-tier polyurethane finishes, including Bona Traffic HD, a commercial-grade finish trusted in high-traffic retail spaces, restaurants, and busy family homes alike. It delivers unmatched durability, crystal-clear clarity, fast cure times, and low odor—so your floors are protected and beautiful from day one.
Whether you have pets, kids, or love to entertain, you can count on our finish to protect your floors for years—without sacrificing beauty or depth of color.
Final Thoughts
With a few smart precautions, you don’t have to choose between beautiful floors and a full life at home. At Jakestone, we build floors that are made to live with you—and look better doing it.
Need guidance choosing the right finish or care products? We're here for that. Contact us here and let us help you protect your existing floors—or explore how a new Jakestone hardwood floor could elevate your space and your life.
