How Do You Get Scratches Out of Hardwood Floors? Quick DIY Steps

There’s nothing worse than seeing an ugly scratch on your beautiful hardwood floors. It can feel like the whole surface is ruined! But before you panic, we’re here to answer the big question: how do you get scratches out of hardwood floors? This guide will show you the best methods, from simple tricks to knowing when to call an expert.

How Deep Is the Scratch?

Look very closely at the scratch to see how deep it is. If you see a light white line, the scratch is probably just on the shiny topcoat. If you can see the darker, raw wood underneath, the scratch is much deeper. Knowing this will help you choose the right fix.

DIY Fixes for Light Surface Scratches

If the scratch is just a light one on the surface, you can often fix it yourself. Here are a few easy tricks you can try at home to fix light scratches on hardwood:

The Walnut Trick

This might sound funny, but it works! Take a raw walnut and rub it over the light scratch. The natural oils from the nut help fill in and hide the mark. 

Blending Pencils and Markers

You can find a hardwood floor scratch remover kit at most hardware stores. These kits come with special crayons or markers that match the color. Just color in the scratch, wipe away any extra, and the mark will blend right in.

Polishing and Cleaning

A thorough clean and a fresh coat of polish can often make very fine scratches disappear. This helps you learn how to hide scratches on wood floors easily. Choosing the right material from the start also helps prevent scratches.

How to Fix Deeper Scratches and Gouges

When the scratch is deep, you need a different plan. For deeper marks, you need to fill in the wood itself. You can use a product called wood filler or wood putty.

First, clean all the dirt out of the scratch. Then, use a small tool called a putty knife to press the filler into the gouge. Let it dry completely, and then lightly sand it so it’s smooth and flat. It's very important to pick a filler color that matches your floor perfectly.

When Is It Time to Refinish the Entire Floor?

If your floor has lots of deep marks or looks worn out in busy areas, it might be time for refinishing. It means sanding the entire surface down to the bare wood. Then, a fresh stain and a new, shiny protective coat are applied. It makes it look brand new again.

This is a big job that needs special tools and skills. It's best to hire a professional general contractor for this.

How to Prevent Future Scratches

The best way to fix scratches is to stop them from happening in the first place! Good hardwood floor maintenance is simple with these tips:

• Use Furniture Pads: Put soft felt pads under the legs of all your chairs, tables, and couches.

• Keep Doormats at Entrances: A good mat will trap rocks and dirt.

• Trim Pet Nails: Keeping your pet’s nails short will protect your surface from their paws.

• Lift, Don't Drag: Always lift heavy furniture when you move it. Never drag it across the wood.

Conclusion

So, how do you get scratches out of hardwood floors? You can hide many small marks with simple tricks, but deeper gouges need more work. For big projects, you should hire experts who offer commercial and residential services.