Light Restoration

• Scratches and dents on hardwood floors are sometimes desired because they "antique" the floor, so you may not want to sand them away. If the floor still has a varnished surface, mop it clean with a damp mop, then apply a mixture of 3 parts olive oil and one part lemon directly onto the floor. Use the damp mop to work the mixture into the wood.
  
  This mixture works very well to season the wood, bringing out its warmth without causing damage. Both olive oil and lemon are tree products that will not damage your hardwood floors. After working the mixture into the hardwood floor, follow up with a dry towel to buff the floor to a shine.
  
  

Sanding

• If a light restoration is insufficient to restore the hardwood floor, consider sanding the floors. Sanding will remove the floor's surface layer, including the stain and varnish, leaving a clean slate for a new stain and finishing application.
  
  Use a floor sander to sand the hardwood floor. You will need to hand sand the edges and corners of the room, where the sander was unable to reach. Be careful to sand in the direction of the floor's wood grain. Once the floor is completely sanded, sweep or vacuum up the sawdust.
  
  

Finishing the Floor

• Since you are working with a newly sanded floor, this is the time to change the floor's stain color if you prefer a different tone.
  
  Apply the stain according to the instructions, in the direction of the wood grain. Allow the stain time to dry, then apply a second coat if necessary. Once the stain is completely dry, seal the floor with a varnish or polyurethane for floors. It may be a good idea to hire a professional floor finisher at this point, if you are not confident applying the finish yourself.
  
  The varnish or polyurethane finishing coat is spread across the floor using even strokes, working with the floor's wood grain. Once an even coat is achieved, the floor is allowed to dry overnight. Prior to applying the second coat, the floor's surface is lightly sanded to provide more adhesion for the next layer. The finish is applied in the same manner, then allowed to dry. If more coats are desired, the process is repeated.