How to Care for Traditional Waxed Timber Floors

Traditional waxed timber floors have a warm, natural look that develops character over time. Unlike modern polyurethane finishes, waxed floors require regular maintenance to keep the timber nourished and protected.

Using Gilly’s Floor Polish is an easy way to maintain and restore these floors. This beeswax-based polish penetrates and nourishes dry timber while buffing to a soft, natural sheen.

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Why Use Floor Polish on Waxed Timber Floors?

 

Wax finishes work by forming a protective layer that enhances the timber’s natural appearance. Over time this layer can wear down from foot traffic and cleaning.

 

Regular polishing helps:

  • Nourish dry timber floors.
  • Restore colour and revive dull areas.
  • Help reduce the appearance of minor scratches.
  • Maintain the traditional wax finish.
  • Leave a soft, natural sheen on the surface.

 

Because it contains natural waxes such as beeswax and carnauba wax, the polish feeds the timber while creating a protective finish.

Step-by-Step: Maintaining Waxed Timber Floors


1. Clean the Floor

Start by removing dust, dirt, and debris using a soft broom or vacuum.
Ensure the floor is clean and completely dry before applying polish.

2. Apply a Small Amount of Floor Polish

Using a soft cloth, applicator pad, or floor buffer, take a small amount of Gilly’s Floor Polish and apply it thinly across the timber.

Work the polish into the timber following the direction of the grain.

3. Allow the Wax to Absorb

Let the polish sit briefly so the waxes can penetrate and nourish the timber.

4. Buff the Surface

Buff the floor using a clean cloth, buffing pad, or electric floor polisher.
Buffing removes excess wax and produces a soft satin sheen on the surface.

5. Apply Additional Coats if Needed

Use up to three coats particularly if the timber is very porous, buffing well between coats. Allow up to an hour between coats to allow waxes to sink right in.

 

Ongoing Maintenance

 

To keep waxed timber floors looking their best:

  • Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove grit that can scratch the surface.
  • Reapply polish when the floor begins to look dull or dry.
  • Use thin coats rather than thick layers of wax.
  • Buff occasionally to revive the sheen.
  • With periodic maintenance, waxed timber floors develop a beautiful, natural patina and remain well protected for many years.