8 Ways You're Destroying Your Hardwood Floors Using the Wrong Cleaner & Supplies. ... Using a Steam Mop. ... High Heels & Things That Squeal. ... Using a Vacuum Without a Wood Floor Attachment. ... Area Rugs with Rubber Backing. ... Too Much Sunshine (Yes, It's a Thing) ... Applying Wax to a Urethane Finish. ... Waiting Too Long to Refinish. Sep 22, 2016