How To Remove Oil Stains From an Unfinished Wood Floor

Unfinished wood floors are admired for their natural beauty and rustic charm, offering a timeless look that complements both modern and traditional interiors. However, their lack of a protective layer makes them more vulnerable to common stains, especially from oil, dirt, and water stains. If you’re wondering how to remove oil stains from unfinished wood floors, the key is to act quickly and use the right tools and cleaning methods to avoid further damage.

Whether you’re dealing with unfinished hardwood floors, untreated wood floors, or simply older wood floors that haven’t been sealed or finished, this guide will walk you through how to clean and maintain your flooring with care.

Understanding Unfinished Wood Floors

Unlike sealed or varnished flooring, unfinished wood doesn’t have a protective barrier against excess moisture, dirt or oil. This means that anything that touches the surface, especially oily substances, can be absorbed into the grain of the wood, creating a stained area that can be difficult to remove.

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent dirt and grime from embedding further into unfinished floors. A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment or a dry mop is ideal for picking up all the dust and particles from the floor without scratching the wood.

Act Quickly with the Right Tools

The most important step in dealing with an oil spill on wooden floors is to act quickly. Use a paper towel or clean cloth to absorb as much of the oil as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the oil deeper into the wood grain, making it more difficult to remove.

After soaking up the excess oil, prepare a gentle cleaning solution. A mixture of baking soda and a small amount of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle can help tackle stubborn stains. Lightly spray the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes to draw out the oil.

Wipe the area using a damp cloth (not wet; excess water can damage the wood) and follow up with a dry cloth to remove any excess liquid. Repeat this cleaning process if needed. If the stained area persists, using white vinegar mixed with cold water can help neutralise and lift natural oils from the surface.

When to Gently Sand the Area

For hard stains or older oil spots that have set deep into unsealed wood floors, it may be necessary to gently sand the area. Use fine-grit sandpaper and make long strokes in the direction of the wood grain. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, as it may damage the wood or create unevenness in your floor.

Once sanded, wipe away all the dust with a soft cloth or microfiber mop. If needed, you can repeat the cleaning solution after sanding to further treat the area.

Professional Restoration for Extensive Damage

While the DIY methods outlined above are effective for minor oil stains and regular maintenance, sometimes unfinished wood floors require more comprehensive restoration services. 

If your floors have suffered from extensive staining, deep-set damage, or widespread wear and tear, professional restoration can transform them completely. At HS Wood Flooring, our experienced restoration specialists use advanced techniques, including dustless sanding, careful repairs of damaged boards, and expert refinishing to bring your floors back to their original beauty. 

Our restoration services are particularly valuable for older unfinished floors that may have years of accumulated damage or for situations where DIY methods haven’t achieved the desired results. With our comprehensive approach, we can address not just surface stains but also structural issues, gaps, and uneven areas that require professional expertise and specialised equipment.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Steam Mops

It’s important to steer clear of harsh floor cleaning methods or a steam mop when cleaning unfinished wood floors. These methods can force excess moisture into the wood, causing swelling or warping. Stick to gentle, natural solutions like Murphy’s Oil Soap, white vinegar, or baking soda, paired with a soft cloth or microfiber mop for a safer clean.

Maintaining Unfinished Hardwood Floors

Once you’ve managed to remove stains, keep your unfinished hardwood floors looking their best with regular cleaning and maintenance. Use a vacuum or dry mop frequently to lift dirt and debris. For a deeper clean, always use a damp cloth sparingly and dry the area immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel to prevent excess water from soaking in.

If you’re planning to deep clean your floors or deal with more than just oil stains, it might be worth consulting a flooring specialist. Over time, many homeowners choose to apply an oil finish or sealer to protect their wood floors while preserving that raw, natural aesthetic.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to remove oil stains from unfinished wood floor can make a big difference in preserving the life and look of your floors. Because unfinished wood floors are more delicate than their sealed counterparts, using careful, natural cleaning methods is essential. Whether it’s a fresh spill or a set-in mark, acting quickly, using the right technique, and avoiding excess moisture will help restore your wooden floors to their original beauty.

For expert advice or assistance with cleaning, maintenance, or restoration of your unfinished wood, the team at HS Wood Flooring is always happy to help. We understand wood flooring, from installation to preservation, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.