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4 ways to get rid of hardwood scratches

There’s nothing more satisfying than having shining wood floors in your home. But over time, normal wear and tear can result in scratches or dents that create a less-than-perfect appearance. Luckily, there are several options for wood floor repair — including some that can be found in your own pantry.

- Walnuts: Take a quick peek into your cupboard. If you have walnuts, then you have a solution to light wood scratches. Simply crack open the shell and remove the meat of the nut. Then, rub the inside of the walnut over any blemishes in the floor. Blend the oils from the nut into the wood using your finger. It should disguise the scratch!

- Wood filler: If you’d like to try a DIY repair on a larger blemish or crack, look to wood filler. It comes in many varieties, but it’s basically a putty-like substance used to fill gouges in wood. There are several different colors available that can be matched to your existing flooring. Or, you can choose a filler that accepts wood stain. Note that filler doesn’t have the color variation of natural wood, so the more problem areas you have, the more noticeable this fix will be. Consult a pro to figure out the best approach for your space.

- Mayonnaise: Another light-scratch solution that may be hiding in your pantry? Believe it or not, many DIYers swear by mayonnaise. To try this hack, first clean the affected area. Then, apply mayonnaise directly to the wood and let it sit for a few minutes. After a while, wipe it away with a towel. The oil from the mayonnaise should fill in the scratches to match the color of the wood.

- Wood staining marker: For slightly deeper scratches, a wood staining marker may do the trick. These markers come in several different shades and can darken problem spots so they blend right in with the floor. Just clean the area around the damaged floor, touch up with the marker and wipe away the excess. Don’t forget to spot-test your marker color first to be sure it’s a good match. If your home has several trouble areas, consider talking to a pro about getting the floor refinished.

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