Grit is the primary cause of surface micro-scratching over time. Remove it daily in high-traffic zones. Steam mops are never safe for hardwood floors — the heat and moisture penetrate the finish and cause long-term swelling and finish failure regardless of what the mop's packaging claims.
The mop should be nearly dry — not wet. Use only hardwood-specific cleaners. Avoid all-purpose floor cleaners, vinegar solutions, and soap-based cleaners — these degrade polyurethane finish over time. Area rugs should have felt or non-slip pads, not rubber-backed pads that trap humidity and discolor finish beneath.
A light abrasion of the existing finish followed by a fresh topcoat application. This restores sheen and extends the time before full sanding is required. Significantly less disruptive than full refinishing — no heavy sanding, no stain change, minimal downtime. Most effective when done before the finish fully fails rather than after.
Check for issues before they compound. Minor gaps that opened over winter and closed in spring are normal. Gaps that persist through summer warrant attention.