How to remove scuff marks from polyurethane hardwood floors: many homeowners prefer polyurethane hardwood floors because they are strong and easy to maintain. However, even these floors are susceptible to scratches caused by things like shoes, furniture, and other items. Although scuff marks are not typically dangerous, they can still detract from the appearance of your floors.
Hardwood floors with a polyurethane coating are not only gorgeous but also sturdy. Scuffs and scratches, however, might detract from their beauty over time. These flaws may frequently be fixed with a few straightforward methods and the appropriate equipment.
You may do a few things to remove scuff marks if they appear on your polyurethane hardwood floors. The appropriate removal technique will be determined depending on the severity of the scuffs and the type of polyurethane finish on your floors.
This article will discuss how to remove scuff marks from polyurethane hardwood floors.
Tools and Material
Tools for How to Remove Scuff Marks from Polyurethane Hardwood Floors
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Warm water
- Microfiber cloth or soft, lint-free cloth
- Soft-bristle brush
- Rubbing alcohol
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Fine-grit sandpaper (optional)
- Polyurethane finish (for touch-ups, if needed)
- Paintbrush or foam brush (for touch-ups)
Tips for Removing Scuff Marks on Polyurethane Hardwood Floors
Here are some methods that help youin How to Remove Scuff Marks from Polyurethane Hardwood Floors
Identify the Scuff Marks
Identifying the position and severity of scuff marks is crucial before attempting to erase them. Deeper markings might demand more aggressive methods, while minor scratches could only need a little cleaning.
Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
First, it’s important to vacuum or sweep the area to remove loose dirt and trash. This will help ensure that the floor stays dry during the cleaning process.
Next, begin by cleaning the area with scratches. Remove any debris and dirt that could cause further scratches if left behind.
First, dampen a cloth with hardwood detergent and scrub the affected area thoroughly until you achieve the desired result. Finally, use a clean cloth to dry the floor.
Try the Gentlest Method First
To remedy minor scuffs on wood:
- Begin with a gentle solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
- Dampen a microfibre or soft cloth with the solution and carefully rub the scratch.
- Be cautious not to use too much moisture as it may harm the wood.
To dry the spot, it is recommended to use a clean cloth.


Use Baking Soda and Water
Scuff marks on all floors can be easily removed using a baking soda solution by mixing two tablespoons of baking soda with one cup of warm water. You can use the paste you make by combining the two components to scrub the affected region.
On polyurethane, this is a wonderful way to remove significant scuff marks. You can also use baking soda by lightly dusting some on the scuff marks and buffing the area with a soft, damp cloth until the scuff is no longer noticeable.
After removing the marks, wipe the area with a moist towel to remove the baking soda residue before wiping it dry with a fresh cloth.
Try Vinegar and Water
White vinegar and warm water should be used in equal portions if the scratches still show. Use the solution to dampen a cloth, then gently rub the scratches. Vinegar can remove more difficult scuff marks. Dry the area by wiping.
Use Rubbing Alcohol
Try rubbing alcohol if the scuff marks are really difficult to remove. Use rubbing alcohol to dampen a cloth and gently rub the spots. Alcohol may strip the floor’s finish, so use it sparingly and only when necessary when using this technique.
Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Apply hydrogen peroxide and water (1:1) mixed with a towel to stubborn dark scuff marks. After letting it sit for a while, lightly rub the affected region. Rinse with warm water, then completely dry.
Sand and Refinish
If none of the mentioned solutions work and the scuff marks are deep, you should softly sand the afflicted area with fine-grit sandpaper. Sand the area, clean it, and then refinish it with polyurethane to match the rest of the floor.
Touch-Up with Polyurethane Finish
If the finish gets removed while removing scuffs, apply a little polyurethane finish with a paintbrush or foam brush and let it dry completely.
Using a Tennis Ball
A Tennis Ball is a good removal technique if you have stubborn scuff marks if the damage affects a sizable portion of the floor.
After washing the floor with a damp and dry cloth, use a tennis ball to vigorously scrub the affected areas. To hold a broom instead of the tennis ball in your hand, you can cut an “x” into it and place it on the end of the handle. Firmly rub the scuff marks until they disappear.
Using an Eraser
Remove scuff marks from hardwood floors with a clean, light-colored pencil eraser, preferably new.
This technique works best to remove scuffs off lighter-colored flooring, and you must be careful to scrub with the proper pressure to prevent further harm to your floor.
As a final resort, employ this approach. For this procedure, you will need a pencil eraser, which you should rub vigorously on the scuff mark until it disappears. The eraser residue can then be removed with a clean towel, and the area can be dried.


Conclusion
You can easily clean your hardwood floor by following the methods discussed on How to remove scuff marks from polyurethane hardwood floors. Scuff marks on polyurethane hardwood floors can be easily removed, restoring the elegance of your flooring. These procedures will help you remove scuff marks from your hardwood floors and preserve their beauty for years. Start with the gentlest treatments first. Always be cautious and test any cleaning or repair method in a discreet area first to ensure it won’t damage the finish of your floor.