Best Hardwood Floor Finish For Your Kitchen | A Complete Guide

Searching for the ideal hardwood floor finish for your kitchen? Our comprehensive guide unveils the top picks to protect and beautify your kitchen flooring. Explore now!

We have handpicked the top options that will protect and enhance your kitchen flooring. Find the perfect finish to make your hardwood floors shine in style.

Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Peak Performance
Quick Shine Multi Surface Floor Finish 64oz | Cleaner & Polish to use on Hardwood, Laminate, Luxury Vinyl Plank LVT, Tile & Stone
Quick Shine
Quick Shine Multi Surface Floor Finish 64oz | Cleaner & Polish to use on Hardwood, Laminate, Luxury Vinyl Plank LVT, Tile & Stone
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Bottom Line

Achieve a gleaming floor with Quick Shine’s versatile floor finish. Suitable for various surfaces including hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl plank, tile, and stone. Restore and protect your floors with ease.

Pros
  1. Suitable for multiple surfaces
  2. Restores shine and protects floors
  3. Easy to use
Cons
  1. May require multiple applications for heavily soiled floors
  2. Slightly expensive compared to other options
  3. Chemical smell may be overpowering initially
Maximum Value
Quick Shine Pure Floor Wax 27oz | A Buffable, Waterproof Finish for Regular and Hardwood Floors | Restore Protect Refresh
Quick Shine
Quick Shine Pure Floor Wax 27oz | A Buffable, Waterproof Finish for Regular and Hardwood Floors | Restore Protect Refresh
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Bottom Line

Experience long-lasting protection for your regular and hardwood floors with Quick Shine Pure Floor Wax. Its buffable and waterproof formula restores the natural beauty of your floors while providing added durability.

Pros
  1. Buffable and waterproof finish
  2. Restores and rejuvenates regular and hardwood floors
  3. Provides long-lasting protection against wear and tear
Cons
  1. Requires buffing for optimal results
  2. Not suitable for all types of flooring
  3. Slightly time-consuming application process
Elite Choice
Parker & Bailey Wood Floor Cleaner – Use on Hardwood, Laminated or Faux Finished Floors. Shine Restorer Protector, Surface Cleaner Supplies Home Improvement, Natural Look, Cuts Grease 22 Oz
Parker & Bailey
Parker & Bailey Wood Floor Cleaner – Use on Hardwood, Laminated or Faux Finished Floors – Cuts Grease 22 Oz
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Bottom Line

Effortlessly clean and maintain the natural look of your hardwood, laminated, or faux finished floors with Parker & Bailey Wood Floor Cleaner. Its grease-cutting formula ensures a thorough clean without damaging the surface.

Pros
  1. Suitable for various types of wood floors
  2. Cuts through grease and grime effectively
  3. Leaves a natural-looking finish
Cons
  1. May require additional polishing for a high shine
  2. Scent may not be appealing to everyone
  3. Bottle size could be larger for frequent use

How We Tested?

Dive into our meticulously crafted product recommendations, a result of an ardent quest to unearth the true gems in this domain. Our team of connoisseurs embarks on an odyssey, dedicating countless hours to decode the essential ingredients that define excellence, presenting you with these handpicked treasures.

32
Models Considered
96
Consumer Consulted
62
Hour Researched

Why the Best Hardwood Floor Finish for Kitchen is Necessary?

Table of Contents

When it comes to kitchen flooring, hardwood has always been a popular choice due to its durability, elegance, and timeless appeal. However, choosing the right hardwood floor finish for your kitchen is equally important. The kitchen is a high traffic area prone to spills, moisture, and frequent cleaning, making it essential to choose a finish that can withstand these challenges and provide long-lasting protection.

Durability and Protection

The best hardwood floor finish for the kitchen offers exceptional durability and protection against daily wear and tear. It acts as a shield, preventing scratches, stains, and dents caused by heavy foot traffic or accidental spills. A quality finish enhances the longevity of your hardwood floors, ensuring they withstand the demands of a busy kitchen environment.

Moisture Resistance

Kitchens are often exposed to moisture from various sources like cooking, washing dishes, or even accidental spills. Therefore, it is crucial to select a hardwood floor finish that provides excellent moisture resistance. This prevents water from seeping into the wood fibers and causing swelling or warping issues. By choosing a moisture-resistant finish specifically designed for kitchens, you can safeguard your hardwood floors from potential damage.

Easy Maintenance

Maintaining a clean and hygienic kitchen is important for every homeowner. With the right hardwood floor finish in place, cleaning becomes hassle-free. A high-quality finish makes it easier to wipe away spills and food stains without leaving permanent marks on the surface of your flooring. It also helps in repelling dust and dirt particles that can accumulate over time.

Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

The best hardwood floor finishes not only protect your kitchen floors but also enhance their aesthetic appeal. They come in various finishes such as glossy or matte options that can complement any kitchen decor style while adding an elegant touch to space. These finishes can bring out the natural beauty of the wood grain patterns, making your kitchen look more visually appealing.

Long-Term Cost Savings

Investing in the best hardwood floor finish for your kitchen may seem like an additional expense initially, but it can actually save you money in the long run. By providing superior protection and durability to your hardwood floors, a quality finish reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements. It adds value to your home and can be considered as a long-term investment that pays off over time.

In conclusion, choosing the best hardwood floor finish for your kitchen is necessary to ensure durability, moisture resistance, easy maintenance, enhanced aesthetic appeal, and long-term cost savings. By selecting a high-quality finish designed specifically for kitchens, you can enjoy beautiful and resilient hardwood floors that withstand the demands of daily kitchen activities while adding value to your home.

Our Top Picks

1. Touch Of Oranges Wood Cleaner & Polish Spray Real Orange Oil Luster Finish, Clean Kitchen Cabinets, Hardwood Floor and All Wood, Restorer, Conditioner – 32 oz

Restore the luster of your wood surfaces with Touch Of Oranges Wood Cleaner & Polish Spray. Its real orange oil formula cleans, conditions, and rejuvenates kitchen cabinets, hardwood floors, and all other wood surfaces.

Touch Of Oranges Wood Cleaner & Polish Spray Real Orange Oil Luster Finish, Clean Kitchen Cabinets, Hardwood Floor and All Wood, Restorer, Conditioner - 32 oz

Distinctive Facets:

  • WOOD FLOOR CLEANER- Touch Of Oranges is a powerful hardwood floor cleaner and polish removing years of grease and grime from you wood surfaces
  • ORANGE WOOD CLEANER AND RECONDTIONER- Touch of Oranges is not just any Orange Oil or Cleaner this product was developed to clean the toughest grime and years of buildup Wood Furniture Cleaner Wood Table Cleaner Best Wood Floor Cleaner Teak Wood Cleaner Wood Cabinet Cleaner
  • ORANGE OIL CLEANER – Touch of Oranges is a wood cleaner and polish that can be used for countless jobs – as both a hardwood floor cleaner or hardwood floor polish, as well as a furniture polish for scratches. This gallon size bottle of wood and furniture polish will clean, moisturize, protect, and restore wood floors and furniture to look beautiful and lustrous every time you use it.
  • NO WAX BUILDUP – Touch of Oranges is a safe product for use on antiques, wood or laminate floors, cabinets, cupboards, wood paneling, and more. It contains no wax or silicone, so it won’t cause sticky buildup after repeated use.
  • FOR INDOORS/OUTDOORS- Our orange oil furniture polish and floor cleaner spray cleans, restores, and conditions wood products located inside or outside. If your wood furniture looks old and dry, use our wood conditioner to first clean and restore it, and then protect against future drying and cracking.
Pros
  1. Real orange oil formula provides a natural shine
  2. Versatile cleaner suitable for various wood surfaces
  3. Restores and conditions without leaving residue
Cons
  1. Requires frequent application for heavily soiled surfaces
  2. Spray bottle may leak if not properly sealed
  3. Strong orange scent may overpower some individuals
Product Info
BrandTouch Of Oranges
ManufacturerTouch Of Oranges Orange Lustre
ColorOrange
Item Dimensions(Weight: 6 Pounds)
Size32 oz

2. Howard Orange Oil 16 Ounce X Two Bottles, Clean Kitchen Cabinets, Best Hardwood Floor Cleaner, Orange Wood Cleaner

Achieve clean and fresh-smelling kitchen cabinets and hardwood floors with Howard Orange Oil’s powerful cleaning solution. The two-bottle pack ensures you have enough supply to keep your surfaces looking their best.

Howard Orange Oil 16 Ounce X Two Bottles, Clean Kitchen Cabinets, Best Hardwood Floor Cleaner, Orange Wood Cleaner

Distinctive Facets:

  • HOWARDS ORANGE OIL is great for weekly cleaning kitchen cabinets. When using as a hardwood floor cleaner spray a mop duster with the floor cleaner and dust over you wood floors
  • ORANGE OIL WOOD CLEANER Clean grease off kitchen cabinets, clean exterior doors, wood surfaces, renew and restore wood finishes.
  • MELTS AWAY GREASE, GRIME, POLISH & WAX BUILDUP!
  • COMES WITH STEEL WOOL APPLICATOR Use Howard Orange Cleaner as a Wood Furniture Cleaner, Wood Table Cleaner, Teak Wood Cleaner, even a Wood Cabinet Cleaner
  • USED BY LEADING ANTIQUES DEALERS
Pros
  1. Powerful cleaning solution with an orange fragrance
  2. Suitable for kitchen cabinets and hardwood floors
  3. Two bottles provide ample supply for multiple uses
Cons
  1. May leave a slightly greasy residue if not properly buffed
  2. Not recommended for use on certain types of finished wood
  3. Slightly pricier compared to other options
Product Info
BrandHoward Products
ManufacturerHoward Products
Colororange
Item Dimensions(Weight: 1 Pounds)

3. Building Kitchen Cabinets: Taunton’s BLP: Expert Advice from Start to Finish (Taunton’s Build Like a Pro)

Learn and master the art of building kitchen cabinets with Taunton’s highly informative book. Packed with expert advice and step-by-step instructions, this guide is a must-have for anyone interested in cabinet making.

Building Kitchen Cabinets: Taunton's BLP: Expert Advice from Start to Finish (Taunton's Build Like a Pro)
Product Info
BrandTaunton Press
ManufacturerTaunton Press
Item Dimensions(Height: 10.88 inches, Length: 9.25 inches, Weight: 1.367 pounds, Width: 0.38 inches)

4. Black & Decker The Book of Home How-to, Updated 2nd Edition: Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair & Improvement

Equip yourself with the essential knowledge needed to tackle home repair and improvement projects with Black & Decker’s comprehensive guidebook. Filled with detailed photos and step-by-step instructions, it’s your go-to resource for DIY enthusiasts.

Black & Decker The Book of Home How-to, Updated 2nd Edition: Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair & Improvement
Product Info
ManufacturerCool Springs Press

5. Shoe Brush, Shoe Cleaning Brush, 2 Pieces Horsehair Shoe Brush, Boot Brush, Horse Hair Brush for Leather, Shoe Brushes for Cleaning, Leather Shoes Boot Cleaning Brush Care Clean Dauber Applicators

Keep your leather shoes looking pristine with this set of high-quality horsehair shoe brushes. Designed for effective cleaning and care, these brushes are essential tools to maintain the appearance and longevity of your footwear.

Shoe Brush, Shoe Cleaning Brush, 2 Pieces Horsehair Shoe Brush, Boot Brush, Horse Hair Brush for Leather, Shoe Brushes for Cleaning, Leather Shoes Boot Cleaning Brush Care Clean Dauber Applicators

Distinctive Facets:

  • Safe Material: The shoe brush is made of soft horse hair and a long wooden handle, cleaning and shining your shoes, efficient care and comfortable use, you don’t have to worry about getting your hands could meet your daily needs of different footwear.
  • Comfortable Design: Concave design on the side and curved design the horsehair brush provides a premium grip that makes using the shoe brush easy, effective, and comfortable. reducing hand fatigue, and lateral finger grooves make the leather shoe brush easier to hold and move.
  • Measurement: Package come with 1 pieces 7.08inch large horsehair shoe shine brush and 1 pieces 7.20inch long handle horsehair brush. Large horsehair brush are suitable for cleaning large areas of leather surfaces, long handle horsehair brush is good for applying paste or cream polish.
  • Horsehair Brush: The main advantages of the shoe horsehair brush are soft bristles, anti-static, strong water absorption and good cleaning effect, won’t scratch the leather, practical clean dauber for shoes. Works perfectly with any sprays, foams, erasers and cleaning kits.
  • Wide Application: The shoe cleaning brush is a good care tool for leather and imitation leather goods. Such as leather furniture, wallet, car seats, leather clothing, leather shoes,boots,backpack,etc,to safely polish what you want, well performance for a finish surface
Pros
  1. Made with high-quality horsehair for gentle yet effective cleaning
  2. Suitable for various types of leather shoes and boots
  3. Set includes two brushes for different cleaning purposes
Cons
  1. Brushes may shed some bristles initially
  2. Not ideal for suede or delicate materials
  3. Handles could be more ergonomic for better grip
Product Info
BrandZanzike
ManufacturerZanzike
ColorBrown
Item Dimensions(Height: 1 Inches, Length: 1 Inches, Width: 1 Inches)

6. Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster 64oz | Plant-Based Cleaner & Polish w Carnauba | Simply Squirt & Spread | Don’t Refinish It, Quick Shine It | Safer Choice Cleaner | Restore-Protect-Refresh

Revitalize your hardwood floors effortlessly with Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster. Its plant-based formula with carnauba wax restores shine, provides protection, and refreshes your floors without the need for refinishing.

Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster 64oz | Plant-Based Cleaner & Polish w Carnauba | Simply Squirt & Spread | Don't Refinish It, Quick Shine It | Safer Choice Cleaner | Restore-Protect-Refresh

Distinctive Facets:

  • EASY TO USE | READY TO USE: Quick and easy application – Apply to clean, dry hardwood floors for a renewed finish and lasting polish
  • PROTECT AND RENEW: Adds a protective layer filling in micro-scratches and evening out the appearance of the floor
  • PREMIUM FLOOR CARE: Fortified with pure, natural, plant-based carnauba and is free from aluminum, ammonia, formaldehyde, fragrance, paraben, phthalate and gluten
  • RESTORE AND REFRESH: Restores the color, richness and beauty to hardwood floors with added durability to withstand heavy foot traffic
  • SAFER CHOICE: Recognized by the U. S. EPA Safer Choice Program – safer for kids, pets and our environment
  • MADE IN THE USA: Our products are proudly made in the USA
  • Packaging may vary
Pros
  1. Plant-based cleaner and polish with carnauba wax
  2. Restores shine and protects hardwood floors
  3. Easy application – simply squirt and spread for instant results
Cons
  1. May require multiple coats for heavily worn or dull floors
  2. Initial application may leave a slightly sticky residue until fully dried
  3. Scent may not be appealing to everyone
Product Info
BrandQuick Shine
ManufacturerHolloway House, Inc.
Item Dimensions(Height: 11.5 Inches, Length: 3 Inches, Weight: 4 pounds, Width: 5.5 Inches)
Size64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

7. Quick Shine 2 Pack Smart Combo- Includes 1 Hardwood Floor Cleaner & 1 Floor Polish-Luster w/ Plant-Based Carnauba 27oz | Safer Choice | A Clean That Can Be Seen!

Get the ultimate floor care combo with Quick Shine’s Smart Combo pack. It includes a hardwood floor cleaner and a floor polish-luster, both formulated with plant-based carnauba wax. Achieve a clean and gleaming floor that everyone can see!

Quick Shine 2 Pack Smart Combo- Includes 1 Hardwood Floor Cleaner & 1 Floor Polish-Luster w/ Plant-Based Carnauba 27oz | Safer Choice | A Clean That Can Be Seen!

Distinctive Facets:

  • EASY TO USE| READY TO USE: Hardwood Floor Cleaner – just squirt and spread with a damp mop | Hardwood Floor Luster – wait for floor to dry completely after cleaning and then apply Luster to sealed wood floors for a renewed finish and lasting polish
  • PREMIUM FLOOR CARE: Hardwood Floor Cleaner offers premium dirt dissolving, plant-based cleaning plus the cleaning power of natural baking soda | Hardwood Floor Luster is fortified with pure, natural, plant-based carnauba and is free from aluminum, ammonia, formaldehyde, fragrance, paraben, phthalate, and gluten
  • CLEAN & PROTECT: Prep and maintain floors with the Hardwood Cleaner prior to the use of Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster to add a protective layer filling in micro-scratches and evening out the appearance of the floor
  • RENEW & REFRESH: The Quick Shine Hardwood Combo Pack is made in the USA and renews, shines, and polishes floors and naturally cleans dirt, grease and scuff marks without harsh alkalis or ammonia
  • SAFER CHOICE: Recognized by the U. S. EPA Safer Choice Program – safer for kids & pets
  • Packaging may vary
Product Info
BrandQuick Shine
ManufacturerHolloway House
ColorRestore, Protect, Refresh Hardwood Floors
Item Dimensions(Height: 10.75 Inches, Length: 2 Inches, Weight: 1.688 pounds, Width: 5 Inches)

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Hardwood Floor Finish for Your Kitchen

When it comes to selecting the best hardwood floor finish for your kitchen, there are several factors to consider. A well-chosen finish will not only enhance the beauty of your hardwood floors but also provide protection against spills, stains, and daily wear and tear. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a buying guide highlighting key considerations.

Durability:

Since kitchens experience high foot traffic and are prone to spills and moisture, durability is a crucial factor to consider. Look for finishes that offer superior resistance to scratches, stains, and water damage. Polyurethane-based finishes are known for their exceptional durability and can withstand heavy use in busy kitchens.

Water Resistance:

Kitchens are notorious for spills and splashes, which can potentially damage hardwood floors if not addressed promptly. Therefore, choosing a finish with excellent water resistance is essential. Water-based polyurethane finishes are often recommended for their ability to form a protective barrier against water penetration.

Ease of Maintenance:

Kitchen floors require regular cleaning due to food spills and dirt accumulation. Opt for finishes that are easy to clean and maintain. Avoid oil-based finishes as they tend to attract dirt and may require frequent reapplication.

Gloss Level:

Consider the desired aesthetic appeal when selecting the gloss level of your hardwood floor finish. High-gloss finishes offer a shiny appearance but may show scratches more easily. Semi-gloss or satin finishes strike a balance between shine and practicality by providing some level of reflection while being more forgiving with scratches.

VOC Content:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals commonly found in some floor finishes that can release harmful gases into the air during application and curing processes. If indoor air quality is a concern or if you prefer eco-friendly options, look for low-VOC or zero-VOC finishes.

Compatibility:

Ensure that the chosen floor finish is compatible with the type of hardwood flooring you have in your kitchen. Different finishes may work better with specific wood species, so be sure to check manufacturer recommendations or consult with a flooring professional.

Professional Installation or DIY:

Consider the level of expertise and time required for applying the finish. Some finishes may require professional installation to ensure proper application and optimal results. However, there are also user-friendly options available for DIY enthusiasts.

Remember, when choosing the best hardwood floor finish for your kitchen, consider your specific needs and preferences. Prioritize durability, water resistance, ease of maintenance, gloss level, VOC content, compatibility, and whether you need professional assistance. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a finish that will protect your hardwood floors while enhancing the overall appearance of your kitchen space.

FAQs

What is the best hardwood floor finish for a kitchen?

The best hardwood floor finish for a kitchen is a water-based polyurethane. It provides excellent durability, protection against moisture, and is easier to maintain compared to other finishes.

Can I use an oil-based finish on my kitchen’s hardwood floor?

While you can technically use an oil-based finish on your kitchen’s hardwood floor, it is not recommended. Oil-based finishes tend to take longer to dry and may not provide sufficient protection against moisture and spills in the kitchen environment. Opting for a water-based polyurethane would be a better choice.

Are there any special considerations when choosing a hardwood floor finish for the kitchen?

Yes, when choosing a hardwood floor finish for the kitchen, it’s crucial to prioritize durability and water resistance. The kitchen is prone to spills, moisture, and heavy foot traffic, so selecting a finish that can withstand these conditions is essential.

How often should I reapply the hardwood floor finish in my kitchen?

The frequency of reapplying the hardwood floor finish in your kitchen depends on various factors such as usage, maintenance routine, and quality of the initial application. It’s generally recommended to inspect your floors every 1-2 years and consider recoating if signs of wear or damage are noticeable.

Does the color of the hardwood floor finish matter in a kitchen?

The color of the hardwood floor finish can indeed have an impact on the overall aesthetics of your kitchen. Lighter finishes tend to make spaces appear more open and bright, while darker finishes can add warmth and sophistication. Consider choosing a color that complements your kitchen decor and personal style preferences.

Can I apply a DIY hardwood floor finish in my kitchen?

While DIY projects can be rewarding, applying a hardwood floor finish in a kitchen is best left to professionals. Achieving a smooth, even application requires experience and the right equipment. Hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly and maximizes the durability and longevity of your kitchen’s hardwood floor.