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How to be green by using tea as a hardwood cleaner

Be Green by Using Tea as a Hardwood Cleaner

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This method only works on hardwood floors. I cannot say that it works for any other floor types, because I have only tried it only on my hardwood floor

The tea, itself, contains compounds that inhibits microbes and the tannins give it a shiny glaze

Most of the literature recommends black tea. I wouldn't attempt any other type of tea, like green, unless you know for sure, the affect on wood

Most of the literature recommends black tea. I wouldn't attempt any other type of tea, like green, unless you know for sure, the affect on wood

And like I mentioned in my supply list, I will use a black tea (thanks World Market) with black currants to add a special scent to the house.

And like I mentioned in my supply list, I will use a black tea (thanks World Market) with black currants to add a special scent to the house.

For this Snapguide, I am using a portion of my kitchen table. Always start with a small patch of the wood to make sure that you like the stain and sheen.

Prior to....

Prior to....

Boil a fair amount of water

Boil a fair amount of water

Use 3-4 bags of the fragranced black tea

Use 3-4 bags of the fragranced black tea

Boil thoroughly

Boil thoroughly

Steep for several minutes, also allowing the tea to cool down sufficiently

Steep for several minutes, also allowing the tea to cool down sufficiently

Here, the boiling tea has cooled. I will use a paper napkin to demonstrate on my table.

Here, the boiling tea has cooled. I will use a paper napkin to demonstrate on my table.

Left and right before the tea wipe

Left and right before the tea wipe

Left without the tea clean

Left without the tea clean

Right after the tea clean

Right after the tea clean

Left-none, right-tea

Left-none, right-tea

After it took off the tape, you can see the delineation better

Voila! Thanks for looking at this guide.

  • Flathead hardwood floor mop
  • Black tea, also consider lavender, ginger or lemon
  • Hot water