Today's hardwood floors are finished with tough polyurethane and stand up well to kitchen use, with a few precautions. Water is the biggest enemy of hardwood floors. Water can leave white spots on the floor, ruin the finish or even warp the wood. Foot traffic, sand and the inevitable dropped pot can also scratch the finish or leave dings in the wood. Take care of these challenges, and your wood floors will serve you for many years.
Lay non-skid rugs in front of the sink, at the back door and under the cabinets where pots and pans are stored. These areas are the most prone to damage due to water, dirt and heavy impact. Choose rugs made from natural materials with breathable backings to reduce moisture buildup next to the wood flooring.
Sweep the floor daily, or as necessary, with a broom or dust mop to remove dirt and grime, which can scratch the floor.
Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water damage. Spot clean the floor as needed with a damp cloth and damp mop the entire floor weekly to remove food stains.