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How To Remove Scuff Marks From Floor

Few things can mar the appearance of a clean floor like a scuff mark. Unfortunately, these marks are fairly common, unless you require all of your guests to remove their shoes as soon as they enter your home.

So how do you remove scuff marks from your floor? Take a look at some instructions for cleaning these dirty streaks from three of the more common types of flooring.

Removing Scuff Marks from Wood Floors

Many wood floors can be very delicate when it comes to cleaning. Because of this, you want to avoid abrasive cleaners or tools when you’re trying to figure out how to remove scuff marks from your floor. That doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about the problem, though.

Here are three methods you can use when removing scuff marks from wood floors. Keep in mind that you should spot test all methods in an inconspicuous place before scrubbing at that scuff.

The tennis shoe method:

Many professional cleaners won’t skip a beat in telling you about this method if you ask how to remove scuff marks from your floor. You’ll need a clean, light soled tennis shoe for this DIY.
  1. Place your hand in the heel of the shoe and set the shoe sole over the mark.
  2. Give the shoe a couple of good twists while applying light pressure to the heel. The scuff mark should come right up.
Really? I thought that shoes create scuff marks. I guess it would be important to say avoid dark soled shoes.

The tennis ball method:

You read that right; a tennis ball can be used to remove scuffs. For the best results, you want a used tennis ball. Just make sure it’s clean.
  1. Cut an “X” in the tennis ball and stick it on the end of a broom handle.
  2. Buff the scuff mark out using gentle pressure.

The school eraser method:

When removing scuff marks from wood floors, you’ll want a large light-colored pencil eraser that’s free of pencil residue or any other grime. If you’re in doubt, buy a fresh eraser. Note: This may not be the best means of removing scuffs from lighter hued floors.
  1. Dampen a microfiber cloth and use that to wipe the scuff mark.
  2. Rub the eraser over the scuff until it disappears.
  3. Immediately sweep up any eraser shavings.

How to Remove Scuff Marks from Tile and Laminate Floors

You can also use the aforementioned methods on tile or laminate flooring. However, tile and laminate are a bit more durable than wooden floors, so you have a couple of more options.

Baking soda: Some scuffs can be removed using a paste of baking soda and warm water:
  1. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with warm water to create a paste.
  2. Use a microfiber cloth to scrub the paste over the affected area until the scuff mark disappears.
  3. Wipe over the area with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any residue.
  4. Dry the area with a towel or clean microfiber cloth.
Nail polish remover: Acetone-based nail polish remover can also remove scuffs from some tile and laminate floors.
  1. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the nail polish remover.
  2. Gently rub the scuff mark until it fades.
  3. Wipe the area clean with a damp microfiber cloth before drying with a fresh cloth or towel.
Keep in mind that you’ll want to check your manufacturer’s instructions before using DIY cleaners to remove scuff marks from your flooring. You could invalidate the warranty if you don’t.

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