Murphy’s oil soap is one of the most often used oil cleansers for hardwood floors. It is an American-made product that is extensively used for hardwood cleaning. Colgate-Palmolive made and sold this oil.
Although Murphy’s oil recipe contains all-natural components, using Murphy’s Oil Soap on the hardwood floors might do more harm than good. When faced with this complication, you may wonder, “How to remove murphy’s oil soap from hardwood floors?“
Spray Ammonia Free-Windex in a small piece around 2-3 feet square. Allow it to sit for 2 to 3 minutes. Scrub the area with a sponge to remove any residue. Now, use a fresh, wet tissue to wipe the area promptly so that the debris does not dry.
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How to remove murphy’s oil soap from hardwood floors?
If you see a residue or a dull look on the floor, follow the easy instructions below, and now immediately remove Murphy’s oil after applying it to the hardwood floor.
- Move any things or furniture that may be in your way to one corner of the space. To prevent sticking the wood, avoid dragging them.
- It is advisable to have a solution (see below) and spray it on a short piece of around 2 to 3 feet.
- Try leaving that location for 5 min.
- To clean the residue, use a sponge and clean the affected area.
- Clean that area with a moist cloth so that the residue does not dry.
- Continue the cycle until all residues have been removed from the surface.
- Finally, Mop your floor with a decent cleanser and thoroughly dry it.
However, the steps are easy to remove murphy’s oil from the hardwood floor. You can also try these solutions to achieve a good result.
1. Try using cooking oil
Allow a few minutes for the cooking oil to sink in. It works in the same way that olive oil treats wood. Allow it to rest for fifteen minutes before removing it with a towel. Repeat until the oil soap is completely gone from the hard floor.
2. WD-40 is a viable option
WD-40 is widely used for a variety of purposes. It’s only valid for light lubrication and creaky hinges for cleaning products. Nonetheless, because Murphy’s Oil Soap includes mineral spirits (petroleum condensate solvents), the spray should aid in lifting the Murphy’s Oil Soap off the floor.
3. Mineral Spirits are an option
Mineral spirits will also do the job in a pinch, but do not combine them with other cleansers because this substance is solid and thin. Remember that technology should only be used by those who already have some materials lying around the house. Do not purchase to experiment with removing Murphy’s Oil Soap from wood floors!
4. Try Stain Remover
You may also use a stain remover specialized for oil-based stains, such as Murphy’s Oil Soap; however, do not use it on bare wood floors since the instructions will most likely urge you to pour it into a rag or tissue towel and then wipe.
5. Make use of Detergent Solution
Another option is to wet a mop or cloth with water and mix in some detergent. Then dab the stain with the solution until it lifts off the floor.
6. You can use vinegar
Vinegar is also a solvent, albeit not as powerful as mineral spirits. If WD-40 does not work, try sprinkling Vinegar heavily over the affected area and let it rest for at least fifteen minutes before cleaning it clean with a mop or towel.
7. Make use of Baking Soda Paste
It is a good alternative if you don’t have mineral spirits or frying oil. Make a baking soda and water paste, apply it to the Murphy’s Oil Soap stain, let it sit for 60 minutes, and then wipe it away with a moist towel.
8. Ammonia is also an option
Because ammonia, like vinegar, is an acidic cleanser, it will effectively dissolve Murphy’s Oil Soap. In a bucket, combine ammonia and warm water until it’s somewhat murky, then apply to the area with stains on your wood floors. If you’re dealing with stubborn dried soap residue, use a scrub brush.
How to safeguard your hardwood floor?
A hardwood floor is priceless, and you must protect it from staying attractive and long-lasting. Here are some pointers to help you get there.
- No water should be allowed to accumulate on the surface.
- When you need to deep clean, choose optimal cleaning machines.
- Always use cleaning products that are highly recommended and will not harm the finish or the wood.
- To prevent dirt and stain buildup, clean regularly.
- Make sure your shoes and furnishings don’t scratch the floor.
- Choose non-toxic products and keep them out of the reach of pets and children.
Keep in mind that what you are doing is all for your hardwood floor. So, always keep it clean and safe.
Is Murphy’s Oil Soap Harmful to Wooden Floors?
Murphy’s oil soap is in great demand on the market since it contains no harsh detergents such as bleach. Is Murphy’s oil soap, however, harmful to hardwood floors? Experts generally advise avoiding using oil and wax-based cleansers on hardwoods.
Not strictly because of the wood, however, because of the polyurethane finish, which might react and damage it, resulting in sticky and greasy residue. As a result of the rubble, the floor becomes slick and hazy.
However, the makers of Murphy’s oil soap have insisted that, despite its name, their product is oil-free and leaves no trace on floor surfaces.
The majority of hardwood floor producers strictly discouraged the use of oil soaps. Some of them will void their guarantee if there is any harm to the floor due to using oil soap.
Nonetheless, judging whether or not Murphy’s oil soap is detrimental to hardwood floors is difficult due to conflicting consumer testimony.
Those who claim that Murphy’s oil soap destroyed their floors are countered by those who believe they did not utilize the product as directed by the manufacturer. Another common cause is that they had recently used an oil soap discovered after using Murphy’s oil soap.
What are the Precautionary Measures while Removing Murphy’s Oil?
Precaution and safety are a must while handling a chemical. However, you should follow these basic ways to avoid any harm.
- Because Murphy’s Oil Soap is flammable, do not use it near an open fire or other ignition sources.
- When washing indoors, open the windows to allow odors to escape.
- To avoid accidental intake or poisoning, keep out of touch with children and dogs.
- Do not combine with other cleansers, especially those containing ammonia, since this may result in harmful fumes.
Remember that it doesn’t take too much time while cleaning the hardwood floor. Also, don’t wet your hand with a cleanser for so long. It may damage your skin or irritate your eyes if you come in contact.
Final Verdict
Murphy Oil Soap is widely used for cleaning ceramic tile, polished hardwood floors, laminate, and vinyl tile. Furthermore, because it is 98 percent natural, it helps prolong the life of these surfaces. Patience and time are essential for eradicating it from your flooring; let at least twenty-four hrs before trying any additional cleaning.
If you need assistance eliminating this sticky stuff after a lengthy wait, use a mop with hot water or a wet vacuum cleaner and dishwashing soap to remove the oils trapped on your wood floor. Happy scrubbing!