There’s a lot of variables to consider when choosing the best oil for wooden floors. There’s no one size fits all product. You’ll have to consider hardwax oils, traditional wood oils, and oil and wax blends.
There’s also plenty of modern finishes that promise easy application and longevity, but leave behind heavy fumes and a sealed surface that feels more plastic than wood.
If you want to discover an appropriate natural, breathable, and low VOC option for your wooden floors, this guide will help. Wooden floor oils soak into your timber, protecting it from the inside and providing a finish that still looks and feels like real, natural wood.
What’s the Best Oil for Wooden Floors?
Hardwax oils are broadly considered to be the best option for wooden floors when a durable and natural looking finish is desirable.
A good floor oil will work with your floor, soaking in and strengthening the timber whilst leaving it open and breathable. This type of finish will help the floor cope with changes in moisture and temperature levels.
Natural plant oils and oil wax blends bring out the grain of wood, and are much better for indoor air quality than synthetic varnishes with heavy petrochemical ingredients.
Types of Natural Wood Floor Oils
There are several different types of floor oils which are natural, non toxic, and eco friendly. Which one is best for your project will depend largely on the surface you are finishing, and your own preferences around colour and level of sheen.
Hardwax Oil
Hardwax oils typically contain linseed, tung oil, or a combination of the two. The oils soak into the wood, whilst the waxes add a layer of surface protection. The finish is durable without completely sealing the surface of the wood.
Traditional Penetrating Wood Oils
A traditional style penetrating wood oil is based around natural vegetable based oils such as linseed, tung, sunflower, and castor oil. They provide a very natural, open pre finish that nourishes the timber and enhances its character.
Owners of heritage properties where there are older wooden floors, or anyone who wants a low sheen natural finish may consider a traditional oil finish like this.
Oil & Wax Blends
Oil and wax blends sit somewhere between a pure oil and a hardwax oil. The oil penetrates the wood, while the wax offers added resistance to dirt and wear on the surface. They remain breathable and repairable but cope well with the demands of busy modern homes.
Our Recommended Wooden Floor Oils
Here’s our best wooden floor oils from the Greenshop Paints range. All are suitable for interior use on wooden floors, and are made from natural and eco friendly ingredients.
AURO Hard Oil No. 126
Auro 126 is a plant based hard oil suitable for solid wood, wood based materials and cork, as well as unglazed clay tiles. It penetrates deeply into the surface while leaving a breathable, open pore finish.
It can be used as a sole treatment or as part of a wider system. It has been tested as safe for toys and is resistant to saliva and perspiration, which makes it particularly well suited to family homes. On wood, it leaves a slightly warm, honey-toned finish.
AURO 126-90 White Hard Oil
Auro 126-90 is the white pigmented version of the Hard Oil No. 126. It is designed to help maintain pale wood tones and reduce the natural ambering that can occur over time.
AURO One Off Oil Wax No. 125
Auro 125 is a natural oil and wax blend containing carnauba wax. It’s suitable for wood and wood based materials and works well on interior floors and other timber surfaces.
It improves abrasion resistance, reduces dirt uptake and can be used as a single-product system. Like other natural oils, it leaves a soft, slightly honey toned finish that enhances the grain rather than masking it.
AURO PurSolid Hard Oil No. 123
Auro 123 is a solvent free, plant based hard oil suitable for wood, wood-based materials and cork. It is often chosen for very absorbent or tired timber, as it penetrates deeply and helps improve the surface’s overall resistance to wear.
It can be used as a primer before further treatment or as a stand alone finish. It is also compatible with natural waxes and care products for ongoing maintenance.
Why Oil Rather than Floor Varnish?
Varnish creates a solid film that sits on the surface of the wood. It will look great to start with but will then start to crack, peel, and age unevenly. Once the varnish surface is damaged, it usually needs to be completely sanded off to reapply a fresh coat.
Natural oils don’t flake or peel, and can be repaired in small areas of wear without having to do the entire floor. Many prefer the feel of wood oil, which ensures the surface still “feels” wooden. It’s also warmer and more natural underfoot.
Varnish creates a solid film on top of the wood. While that can look good initially, it can crack, peel and age unevenly. Once damaged, it usually needs to be sanded off completely.
How is Oil Applied to Floors
Every product comes with its own set of instructions, but the overall process is similar for most products, and straightforward. The floor should be clean and free from grease, polish or old residues. Light sanding may be needed if the surface is worn or previously coated.
The oil is then applied in a thin, even layer using a brush, roller or pad. Once it has had time to soak in, any excess must be carefully removed before it begins to dry. Good ventilation is important, as natural oils dry by absorbing oxygen.
Most oils are touch dry within around ten hours and can usually be recoated after 24 hours, although full curing takes longer. During this time, the floor should be treated carefully and kept free from moisture.
Always refer to the specific product instructions, as drying and coverage can vary depending on the timber and conditions.
Oiled Floor Maintenance
Oiled floors are popular in part due to their low maintenance requirements. They need to be cleaned using a gentle floor cleaner which doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or abrasives.
High traffic areas may begin to look dry or dull over time, however these can be refreshed with a wood care oil or wax rather than needing to sand the entire surface and reapply oil. These low care requirements make oiled floors practical and suitable for the demands of modern life.
Common questions about oiling wooden floors
Is hardwax oil safe for children and pets? When used correctly, natural hardwax oils and wood oils with very low VOC content are suitable for family environments. Some are even tested as safe for use on children’s toys.
How long does oil take to dry on wooden floors? Most are dust dry after around ten hours and can be recoated after 24. Full curing takes longer and can be affected by temperature, humidity and ventilation.
Will oil change the colour of my floor? Clear oils usually add a warm, honeyed tone. White pigmented oils help counter this and keep wood looking paler for longer.
Can I use oil on an old or worn wooden floor? Yes. With good preparation, oil is an excellent way to revive and protect older floors.
The Right Oil for Long Lasting Finish
There is no single perfect choice for every space. What matters is finding a natural oil that suits your floor, your lifestyle and the atmosphere you want to create in your home.
By choosing a breathable, non toxic treatment, you are protecting both your flooring and your indoor environment while allowing your wood to age beautifully over time.
If you are unsure which option is right for your project, please contact us for expert advice on your project. One of our team of paint experts will be happy to help!
