The holidays bring warmth, laughter, and extra foot traffic through your home. From guests arriving in heels to muddy boots tracking through the entryway, your floors take the brunt of it. Whether you have hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, or tile, a little prep can go a long way in keeping your floors looking their best.

Here are a few smart ways to protect your flooring during the holiday season.

Elegant hallway with white arched doorways, detailed wall paneling, and a vintage-patterned runner rug. Features dark wood floors, framed artwork, and a bench with a potted plant by tall windows.

1. Lay Down Area Rugs and Runners

Rugs aren’t just cozy, they’re practical.

Place large area rugs in high-traffic zones like the living room, hallway, and dining area.
Use runners in narrow walkways and entry points to cut down on dirt and scratches.
Rug pads underneath help prevent slippage and add a layer of protection.

Pro tip: Go for rugs that are easy to wash or clean in case of spills.

Bright and organized entryway with a wooden shoe rack, coat hooks, and a woven basket. Features a wood door, striped rug, and large windows letting in natural light.

2. Set Up a No-Shoe Zone (or a Shoe Station)

Asking guests to remove shoes at the door can cut down on dirt and grit dramatically. If a no-shoes policy isn’t your thing, offer:

A mat or tray for wet shoes by the door
Slippers or socks in a basket as a fun hospitality touch

Either way, you reduce the amount of debris that hits your floors.

Living room with rich wood flooring, mid-century furniture, and a spilled drink on the floor near a round wood coffee table. A glass of iced coffee sits on the table beside a small stack of books.

3. Clean Up Spills Quickly

Holiday drinks and treats are great until they hit the ground. Quick cleanups are key:

For luxury vinyl plank (LVP), wipe spills right away to avoid potential slipping.
Hardwood can be sensitive to moisture, so blot spills immediately with a soft cloth.
Avoid harsh chemicals and stick to pH-neutral floor cleaners.

The quicker the cleanup, the less likely stains or damage will occur.

Stylish living space with a wood buffet, wine display, and a table set with appetizers and drinks. Features a mustard velvet sofa and view of a backyard.

4. Protect Under Furniture

Planning to move chairs around for extra seating? Hosting game night around the coffee table?

Use felt pads on the feet of chairs and tables
Add a protective mat under the tree or food buffet

This prevents scratching and scuffing as furniture shifts with your guests.

Bright and modern entryway with a wood front door, indoor plants, a woven rug, and a minimalist bench with textured throw pillows. Natural light pours in through a large side window.

5. Add a Doormat (Inside and Out)

A good doormat is your first line of defense.

Outdoor mats brush off dirt, mud, and sand before guests even step inside.
Indoor mats grab anything that makes it through the front door.

Together, they trap debris before it hits your flooring.

Bright, modern living space featuring a mid-century wood credenza with decorative objects, a large abstract painting, and indoor plants. Includes a fuzzy white ottoman and a patterned accent chair on hardwood floors.

6. Keep Up with Light Daily Cleaning

During busy hosting weeks, sweep or vacuum daily to remove grit that can scratch or dull your floors. It doesn’t have to be a deep clean, just a quick pass to stay ahead of the mess.

Hosting Can Be Beautiful and Low-Stress

Your home should feel open and welcoming this holiday season, not stressful. By making a few small adjustments, you can protect your floors and keep your space looking its best for every guest that walks through the door.

Need New Floors?

We’ve got you covered. From durable, waterproof LVP to timeless hardwood, Woodsman Kitchens & Floors can help you find the perfect flooring for your home and lifestyle.

Stop by our Jacksonville showroom or book a free design consultation to get started.

How to Protect Your Floors from Holiday Foot Traffic