· Mason Everett · Reviews · 7 min read
10 Best Polish For Hardwood Floors 2026
Maintaining the pristine look of natural wood in your home can feel like a never-ending battle against scratches, dullness, and foot traffic.
Finding the right formula is crucial, as the best polish for hardwood floors does more than just shine; it protects your investment and extends the life of your flooring.
In our evaluation of top-rated products, we focused heavily on four key criteria: finish quality, long-term durability, overall value, and application performance.
We also prioritized safer, eco-friendly options that are effective without introducing harsh toxins into your living space.
Whether you need to revive an old floor or maintain a new one, this guide will help you make an informed decision to get professional results at home.
Expert Recommendations ✨
Our Top Picks
After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.
Bona Hardwood Floor Polish High Gloss
This industry standard polish offers incredible coverage and a safe, Greenguard certified formula that restores shine to dull floors without leaving residue.
Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster
Fortified with natural carnauba wax, this plant-based formula provides a durable finish and is EPA Safer Choice certified for homes with kids and pets.
Rejuvenate Professional Wood Restorer
Perfect for older floors, this one-coat application fills in scratches and bonds to the existing finish to create a showroom shine that lasts.
Quick Shine Multi Surface Finish
A versatile powerhouse that works wonders on hardwood, laminate, tile, and stone, making it the ideal choice for homes with mixed flooring types.
10 Best Polish For Hardwood Floors
Reviving your home starts from the ground up, and these products are the secret weapon for transforming tired wood into a stunning feature. We have curated this list to ensure you find a solution that not only hides scratches but also adds a protective layer that withstands daily life. Read on to discover which formula is the perfect match for your home’s unique needs.
Bona Hardwood Floor Polish High Gloss
Best in class for safe restorative shine
Bona has long been a heavyweight name in floor care, and this high gloss polish demonstrates exactly why.
Designed specifically for unwaxed, polyurethane-finished wood floors, it excels at bringing dull surfaces back to life.
The formula is engineered to add a protective layer that fills in micro-scratches, effectively evening out the appearance of your floor without requiring a full refinish.
One bottle is efficient enough to cover approximately 500 square feet, making it suitable for large living areas.
Additionally, it boasts GREENGUARD certification, ensuring low chemical emissions, which is a significant plus for maintaining healthy indoor air quality while cleaning.
Product Specs
| Finish | High Gloss |
| Coverage | 500 sq ft |
| Volume | 32 fl oz |
| Certification | GREENGUARD |
Features
- Safe for unwaxed polyurethane finished wood
- High gloss shine capability
- Fills micro-scratches effectively
- Covers 500 square feet per bottle
- GREENGUARD certified for low emissions
- Protective layer technology
What We Like
- Excellent high gloss finish
- Low chemical emissions
- Great coverage area
- Evens out floor appearance
What We Don't Like
- Not a cleaner, requires pre-cleaning
- Only for polyurethane finishes
Why We Selected This Product
We selected the Bona High Gloss Polish because it strikes the perfect balance between professional-grade results and consumer safety.
During our research, its ability to produce a consistent, streak-free shine stood out immediately.
The fact that it is GREENGUARD certified makes it a top recommendation for households that are conscious about indoor air quality.
User Experience
Users frequently praise how easy it is to apply this product using a microfiber pad.
Many have noted that it successfully hides small scuffs from pet claws and furniture movement.
Homeowners love that it dries relatively quickly, allowing them to walk on their floors sooner than expected.
The high gloss finish is often described as making old floors look brand new.
Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster 27oz
Best in class for plant-based protection
Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster offers a fantastic solution for those who prioritize eco-friendly ingredients without sacrificing performance.
Fortified with pure, natural, plant-based carnauba wax, this polish restores the richness and color of your hardwood.
It is a ready-to-use formula that requires no mixing; simply squirt and spread for an instant refresh.
The product is pH neutral and free from harsh chemicals like aluminum, ammonia, and formaldehyde.
Recognizing the need for safety in family homes, it has achieved the U.S.
EPA Safer Choice recognition, ensuring it is safer for kids and pets while providing anti-slip technology.
Product Specs
| Ingredients | Plant-derived Carnauba |
| Safety | EPA Safer Choice |
| Application | Squirt and Spread |
| pH Level | Neutral |
Features
- Fortified with plant-based carnauba wax
- Ready to use squirt and spread formula
- Free from aluminum and ammonia
- EPA Safer Choice Program recognized
- Anti-slip technology included
- Restores color and richness
What We Like
- Plant-derived ingredients
- No mixing required
- Safe for kids and pets
- Contains anti-slip additives
What We Don't Like
- May require multiple coats for high gloss
- Bottle size is smaller than refills
Why We Selected This Product
This product made our list because it proves you do not need harsh chemicals to get a durable floor finish.
We were impressed by the inclusion of carnauba wax, which is known for its durability and deep shine.
Its EPA Safer Choice certification gave it a significant edge over competitors that rely on stronger synthetic solvents.
User Experience
People love the convenience of the squirt bottle application, eliminating the need for buckets or mixing.
Parents and pet owners frequently mention their peace of mind knowing the ingredients are safer.
Reviews often highlight that the shine is deep and warm rather than artificial, and the anti-slip feature is a major bonus for elderly family members.
Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Polish Combo
Best in class for scratch repair
The Weiman Combo pack is a comprehensive solution designed for high-traffic homes that need both cleaning and restoration.
The star feature here is the micro-filling technology that actively removes scratches while forming a protective, scratch-resistant layer.
This versatility allows it to be used on finished hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl, and laminate floors.
The formula is designed to leave no sticky residue behind, a common complaint with lesser polishes.
It is safe to use around children and pets, making it a practical choice for busy households looking to extend the life of their flooring in one easy step.
Product Specs
| Technology | Micro-filling |
| Compatibility | Finished Hardwood & Laminate |
| Pack Size | 2 Pack |
| Residue | None |
Features
- Micro-filling technology for scratches
- Forms protective scratch resistant layer
- No sticky residue formula
- Safe for use around kids and pets
- Works on finished and engineered hardwood
- Cleaner and polish combination
What We Like
- Fills scratches effectively
- Versatile surface compatibility
- Residue-free finish
- Complete care solution
What We Don't Like
- Must use cleaner before polish
- Not for unfinished wood
Why We Selected This Product
Weiman is a trusted name in surface care, and this combo pack was selected for its specific focus on scratch repair.
The micro-filling technology is a standout feature that addresses the most common pain point for hardwood owners.
We also appreciated that it is sold as a combo, encouraging the correct two-step process of cleaning before polishing.
User Experience
Customers generally report that this product works wonders on floors that have seen better days, specifically helping to blend in surface scratches.
Users appreciate that it does not leave a hazy film, provided the floor is clean first.
The convenience of having a compatible cleaner and polish in one purchase is frequently cited as a major value add.
Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster 64oz Refill
Best in class for large area coverage
For those with expansive hardwood flooring, the Quick Shine 64oz refill bottle offers the same high-quality formula as the smaller version but with much better economy.
It features the signature plant-derived carnauba wax blend that restores richness and beauty to wood floors.
This formula is pH neutral and explicitly free from PFAS and other harmful chemicals, maintaining the Safer Choice standard.
It provides durability to withstand heavy foot traffic and adds a protective layer that fills micro-scratches.
The ready-to-use liquid makes tackling large rooms or entire levels of a home significantly easier and faster.
Product Specs
| Volume | 64 fl oz |
| Certifications | EPA Safer Choice |
| Origin | Made in USA |
| Chemicals | PFAS Free |
Features
- Large 64oz economy size
- Plant-derived with Carnauba wax
- Free from PFAS and formaldehyde
- Fills micro-scratches effectively
- Withstands heavy foot traffic
- Made in the USA
What We Like
- Great value for money
- Safe, natural ingredients
- covers large areas
- Odor-free application
What We Don't Like
- Bottle is heavy to handle
- Requires separate applicator
Why We Selected This Product
We included this larger size because value is a critical factor for homeowners with significant square footage.
It provides the same excellent eco-friendly benefits—like being free from formaldehyde and parabens—but ensures you do not run out halfway through the job.
It represents the best option for maintenance of large open-plan homes.
User Experience
Users with open floor plans find this size indispensable.
Many reviews mention decanting this into spray mops for easy application.
The feedback consistently praises the lack of harsh chemical smells, which is often a problem with bulk floor products.
Long-term users report that it builds up a nice protective coat over time without yellowing.
Weiman Wood Floor Polish Bundle
Best in class for comprehensive maintenance
This Weiman bundle is the ultimate starter kit for anyone looking to revamp their floor care routine.
It includes two bottles of hardwood floor cleaner and one bottle of polish and restorer, plus a reusable microfiber cleaning towel.
The polish utilizes micro-filling technology to prevent new scratches from forming while fading existing ones.
It instantly rejuvenates finished hardwood with a brilliant, natural sheen.
The inclusion of the cleaner ensures you have the right product to prep the floor, which is critical for the polish to bond correctly and last longer.
It is a complete system in a box.
Product Specs
| Included | 2 Cleaners, 1 Polish, 1 Towel |
| Technology | Micro-filling |
| Safety | Kid & Pet Safe |
| Finish | Natural Sheen |
Features
- Micro-filling scratch technology
- Prevents new scratches from forming
- Includes reusable microfiber towel
- Safe around children and pets
- Complete cleaning and polishing system
- Restores natural suppleness
What We Like
- All-in-one care kit
- Prevents future damage
- High-quality applicator included
- Ensures chemical compatibility
What We Don't Like
- More expensive upfront cost
- Polish bottle smaller than cleaner
Why We Selected This Product
We chose this bundle because it eliminates the guesswork of matching products.
Using a mismatched cleaner and polish can lead to streaking or bonding issues, but this kit ensures compatibility.
The added microfiber towel is a thoughtful touch that emphasizes the importance of using the right tools for application to avoid scratching the floor during the process.
User Experience
Buyers love the value proposition of getting everything they need in one package.
The microfiber towel receives specific praise for being high quality and washable.
Users report that following the two-step system (clean then polish) results in a much longer-lasting shine compared to using the polish alone on a swept floor.
Rejuvenate Professional Wood Floor Restorer
Best in class for deep restoration
Rejuvenate Professional Wood Floor Restorer is designed for floors that need more than just a quick shine; they need a transformation.
This product offers a professional-grade durable finish that bonds to the existing surface to resist stains and spills.
The 1-coat application is formulated to fill in scratches and protect the wood, leaving a high gloss finish that revitalizes the entire room.
It is non-toxic and easy to apply with a mop, making it accessible for DIYers.
While it is powerful, it remains safe for pets and kids when used according to directions, drying to provide long-lasting protection.
Product Specs
| Finish | High Gloss |
| Application | Mop On |
| Coats Required | One |
| Type | Restorer |
Features
- Professional grade wood restoration
- One-coat easy application
- Bonds to existing finish
- Fills scratches and shines
- Non-toxic formula
- Long-lasting protection
What We Like
- Restores very old floors
- Durable bonding formula
- High gloss finish
- Resists stains and spills
What We Don't Like
- Harder to remove if mistake made
- Requires precise application
Why We Selected This Product
This product was selected for its restorative capabilities on older floors.
Unlike standard polishes that might last a few weeks, Rejuvenate acts more like a semi-permanent finish that offers substantial protection.
It is the go-to recommendation for floors that look worn out but aren't quite ready for a professional sanding and refinishing job.
User Experience
Homeowners with vintage hardwood floors are the biggest fans of this product.
Reviews frequently mention that it filled in years of wear and tear after just one coat.
Users advise that proper preparation is key; the floor must be absolutely clean for this to bond well, but the results are described as spectacular and durable.
Quick Shine Multi Surface Floor Finish
Best in class for mixed flooring
Quick Shine Multi Surface Floor Finish is the versatile hero for homes with diverse flooring types.
Unlike specialized wood polishes, this formula is engineered to work on hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl plank (LVT/LVP), tile, and stone.
It utilizes Clean Shine Technology to renew and polish floors while adding a protective layer that fills micro-scratches.
The application is incredibly simple—squirt and spread—making it easy to move from the kitchen tile to the living room hardwood without changing products.
It is EPA Safer Choice approved and free from common allergens and toxins like gluten and parabens.
Product Specs
| Surfaces | Multi-Surface |
| Technology | Clean Shine |
| Volume | 64 fl oz |
| Safety | EPA Safer Choice |
Features
- Works on Hardwood, Laminate, LVT, Tile, Stone
- Clean Shine Technology
- Fills micro-scratches
- Simple squirt and spread application
- Free from heavy metals and ammonia
- EPA Safer Choice approved
What We Like
- Extremely versatile
- Good for luxury vinyl
- Easy to apply
- Safe ingredient profile
What We Don't Like
- May be too glossy for some stone
- Build-up possible over time
Why We Selected This Product
Versatility is the main selling point here.
We selected this for homeowners who have an open floor plan with transitions between wood, tile, and vinyl.
It prevents the accidental damage that can occur if you use a wood-only polish on tile, or vice versa.
The broad compatibility combined with the Safer Choice certification makes it a household staple.
User Experience
Users appreciate not having to buy three different bottles for their home.
It is frequently praised for its performance on Luxury Vinyl Plank, which can be tricky to polish.
Reviews highlight that it dries clear and hard, providing a nice protective shell that withstands dog claws and furniture movement effectively.
Bona Hardwood Floor Polish Low Gloss
Best in class for matte finishes
Not everyone wants a mirror-like shine on their floors, and the Bona Low Gloss Polish is the perfect solution for modern, matte, or satin finishes.
It retains all the protective qualities of the high gloss version—filling micro-scratches, evening out appearance, and offering durability—but with a subtle, low-sheen finish.
This product covers 500 square feet per bottle and is GREENGUARD certified, ensuring it meets strict chemical emissions standards.
It is specifically designed to be safe for all unwaxed, unoiled, polyurethane-finished wood floors, providing a renewed look without altering the intended aesthetic of the wood.
Product Specs
| Finish | Low Gloss |
| Coverage | 500 sq ft |
| Certification | GREENGUARD |
| Use | Unwaxed Floors |
Features
- Low gloss / matte finish
- Safe for polyurethane finished floors
- Fills micro-scratches
- Covers 500 square feet
- GREENGUARD certified
- Protects and renews dull flooring
What We Like
- Preserves matte aesthetics
- Excellent scratch filling
- Trusted Bona formula
- Low chemical emissions
What We Don't Like
- Harder to find than high gloss
- Requires dedicated applicator pad
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this product to ensure we catered to the growing trend of matte and satin wood finishes.
Applying a high gloss polish to a matte floor can ruin the look, so having a specific low-gloss option is essential.
Bona reliability combined with this specific finish type makes it unique in the market.
User Experience
Owners of modern homes with low-sheen flooring swear by this product.
They report that it cleans up the look of the floor and hides scratches without making the floor look wet or artificial.
It is often described as enhancing the natural grain of the wood rather than covering it up with a shiny plastic-like layer.
Weiman Hardwood Cleaner for Finished Floors
Best in class for streak-free prep
While technically a cleaner, this Weiman product is an absolute prerequisite for any polishing job, which is why it earns a spot on this list.
It is specifically formulated to clean finished hardwood floors without streaking or dulling the finish.
The plant-based ingredients are safe for kids and pets to walk on once dried.
It effectively removes dust, dirt, and grime that would otherwise get trapped under a polish layer.
Designed to be versatile, it works on engineered hardwood and laminate as well.
Using this creates the perfect canvas for the Weiman High Traffic Polish.
Product Specs
| Type | Cleaner |
| Safety | Plant Based |
| Certifications | EPA Safer Choice |
| Residue | None |
Features
- Streak-free cleaning formula
- Plant-based safe ingredients
- Prepares floor for polishing
- No sticky residue
- Works on laminate and engineered wood
- EPA Safer Choice Certified
What We Like
- Essential for prep work
- Safe for pets
- Dries fast without streaks
- Non-dulling formula
What We Don't Like
- Does not add shine itself
- Spray mechanism can be tiring
Why We Selected This Product
We included this cleaner because the number one reason for polish failure is a dirty floor.
Attempting to polish over dust or oil results in a hazy, peeling mess.
This cleaner is the best partner for any of the polishes listed here, ensuring that the surface is perfectly prepped and streak-free before the restoration step begins.
User Experience
Users consistently rate this as one of the best cleaners for avoiding the dreaded cloudy haze.
It is praised for drying quickly and leaving no residue.
Many users mention that for weekly maintenance, this cleaner alone is often enough to keep floors looking good, reducing the frequency with which they need to apply a full polish.
Minwax Hardwood Floor Reviver High Gloss
Best in class for long-term durability
Minwax Hardwood Floor Reviver is a step above standard polishes; it is a specially formulated polyurethane topcoat.
This product is designed to provide beauty and protection for 3 to 6 months, which is significantly longer than typical wax-based polishes.
It requires no sanding or special preparation other than cleaning.
The water-based formula is easy to clean up but dries to a crystal-clear, durable finish that won't change the color of your floor.
It is the ideal choice for floors that are dull, scratched, or showing signs of wear and need a semi-permanent solution.
Product Specs
| Duration | 3-6 Months |
| Base | Water-based Polyurethane |
| Dry Time | 2-24 Hours |
| Finish | High Gloss |
Features
- Stronger than standard polish
- Provides 3-6 months protection
- Water-based polyurethane formula
- No sanding required
- Crystal clear high gloss finish
- Restores luster to worn floors
What We Like
- Longest lasting protection
- True polyurethane layer
- Water-based cleanup
- Does not alter wood color
What We Don't Like
- Longer drying time required
- More sensitive to application errors
Why We Selected This Product
Minwax is a legend in wood finishing, and this product bridges the gap between polishing and refinishing.
We selected it for its durability.
If you want to apply a product and not worry about it for half a year, this is the one.
Its chemical composition makes it stronger than a simple polish, effectively acting as a new layer of skin for your floor.
User Experience
DIY enthusiasts love the results, often claiming it saved them thousands of dollars in refinishing costs.
Users advise following instructions strictly—specifically regarding drying time (2-24 hours)—to get the best results.
The high gloss finish is reported to be very resilient against dog claws and moving chairs.
What to Look for Before Buying the Best Polish For Hardwood Floors
Selecting the right product for your floors is critical to avoiding damage and achieving that perfect shine. Here are the most important factors to consider before making a purchase.
Find Your Need
First, determine if you need a cleaner, a polish, or a restorer. A cleaner removes dirt and grime but adds no shine. A polish adds a protective layer and shine, usually lasting a few weeks to months. A restorer (like Minwax or Rejuvenate) bonds to the floor and fills deeper scratches, acting as a semi-permanent finish. If your floors are just dirty, a polish might trap the dirt. Always clean first.
Budget
Floor care products vary widely in price. While a $10 bottle of polish might seem cheap, check the coverage area. Concentrated formulas or larger refills (like the Quick Shine 64oz) often offer a better cost-per-square-foot value. Set realistic expectations: a $20 bottle of restorer can save you thousands in refinishing costs, making it a high-value investment even if the upfront cost is higher than a standard cleaner.
Key Features
Look for specific technologies that match your problems. If you have pets, look for micro-filling technology to hide claw marks. If you have children, non-toxic and quick-drying features are essential to minimize downtime. For households with elderly residents, look for anti-slip additives, as some high-gloss polishes can make floors dangerously slick.
Quality & Durability
Not all shines are created equal. Carnauba wax (found in Quick Shine) offers a warm, natural glow but may need more frequent application. Urethane-based polishes (like Bona or Minwax) provide a harder, synthetic shell that lasts longer and resists scratches better. Check if the product is a “one-coat” application or if it requires building up layers, which affects durability.
Brand Reputation
Stick to established brands like Bona, Weiman, and Minwax. Hardwood floors are expensive to repair. Unknown brands may contain harsh solvents that can strip your floor’s finish or leave a milky white haze that is difficult to remove. Established brands test their products rigorously for compatibility with standard polyurethane finishes.
Portability/Size
While you won’t be carrying the bottle around much, consider storage and application. Large 64oz jugs are economical but heavy to pour; you might need a separate squirt bottle or a spray mop. Smaller 27oz or 32oz bottles usually come with ergonomic squirt caps for easy, immediate application.
Is it A Wise Decision to Buy polish for hardwood floors?
Investing in a high-quality polish for hardwood floors is one of the smartest maintenance decisions a homeowner can make. Hardwood flooring is a significant financial asset that increases home value, but only if it is well-maintained. Over time, the protective polyurethane finish on your wood wears down due to foot traffic, furniture movement, and UV exposure.
Buying a polish is essentially buying insurance for your wood. It adds a sacrificial layer that absorbs scratches and scuffs so that your actual wood does not. This delays the need for professional sanding and refinishing, which is an expensive, messy, and time-consuming process. Furthermore, a polished floor seals small micro-crevices where dust and allergens hide, improving indoor air quality. For a nominal cost of $15-$30, you protect an asset worth thousands, making it an incredibly wise investment.
What Is the Best Way to Choose polish for hardwood floors?
Choosing the right polish requires a systematic approach to ensure compatibility and results.
- Identify Your Finish: Test your floor. If a drop of water beads up, you have a sealed surface (urethane/polyurethane) suitable for most polishes. If it soaks in, you have an unsealed or oil-finished floor, and most standard polishes will damage it.
- Determine Gloss Level: Decide on the aesthetic. High gloss reflects light and makes rooms look larger but highlights dust. Low gloss or matte finishes are more modern and forgiving of imperfections.
- Read the Ingredients: If you have sensitive family members, prioritize EPA Safer Choice or GREENGUARD certified products (like Bona or Quick Shine).
- Spot Test: Before doing the whole room, apply the polish to a small, inconspicuous area (like a closet or under a sofa). Wait 24 hours to ensure it dries clear, doesn’t peel, and doesn’t react with the previous cleaning agents used on the floor.
- Check Application Method: Do you have a microfiber mop? Most polishes require one. Ensure you have the right tools to spread the product evenly to avoid streaks.
FAQ
What is the best polish for hardwood floors for beginners? For beginners, we recommend Bona Hardwood Floor Polish. It is very forgiving, easy to spread, and comes from a brand that ensures high compatibility with most modern floor finishes, reducing the risk of mistakes.
How much should I spend on polish for hardwood floors? Expect to spend between $15 and $25 for a standard 32oz bottle. Specialized restoration kits or bulk sizes may cost up to $40, but they offer better long-term value and protection.
What features are most important in polish for hardwood floors? The most critical features are compatibility with your floor finish, scratch-filling capabilities, and drying time. Safety certifications like GREENGUARD are also vital for indoor air quality.
How do I maintain my polish for hardwood floors? Regular maintenance involves sweeping or vacuuming daily to remove grit that can scratch the polish. damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner weekly. Do not over-polish; applying polish every 2-4 months is usually sufficient.
Are expensive polish for hardwood floors worth it? Yes, generally. Premium products like Minwax or Rejuvenate contain higher solids content (urethane/polymers), providing a thicker, more durable protective layer that lasts months longer than cheaper, diluted wax alternatives.
What brands make the best polish for hardwood floors? Bona, Weiman, Minwax, and Quick Shine are the top-tier brands. They have consistent manufacturing standards and offer specific formulas for different floor needs (e.g., high gloss vs. matte).
How long do polish for hardwood floors typically last? Standard polishes typically last 2 to 3 months depending on foot traffic. Heavy-duty restorers or revivers can last 3 to 6 months or longer before needing reapplication.
Can I find good polish for hardwood floors on a budget? Absolutely. Quick Shine offers excellent performance at a very accessible price point, especially if you purchase the larger refill jugs, providing a durable shine without a high price tag.
Final Verdict
After extensive review, Bona Hardwood Floor Polish remains our top recommendation for most homeowners. Its balance of ease of use, safety certification, and consistent high-gloss results makes it the safest and most effective choice for maintaining polyurethane-finished floors.
For those strictly on a budget or looking for a plant-based alternative, Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Luster is a fantastic runner-up that delivers impressive results without harsh chemicals.
If your floors are heavily damaged and need a semi-permanent fix, Minwax Hardwood Floor Reviver is the heavy-duty solution that acts as a new skin for your wood.
Remember to always clean your floors thoroughly before applying any product to prevent trapping dirt.
Take the step today to protect your home’s foundation and enjoy the warmth of beautifully polished wood.
For the best overall results, we recommend starting with the Bona Hardwood Floor Polish.
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