I've tried both Varathane and Bona, and honestly, the difference wasn't huge enough to justify the price jump for me. Varathane held up pretty well in our living room, even with two dogs constantly running around. Maybe Bona has a slight edge in durability, but unless you're dealing with super high traffic or commercial use, I doubt you'd notice much difference day-to-day. I'd stick with the budget-friendly option and save the extra cash for something else...
I've had a similar experience. A couple years back, I refinished the floors in one of my rental properties. Went with Bona since everyone raved about its durability, but honestly, after tenants moved out (with kids and pets), I didn't see a huge difference compared to Varathane in another unit. Maybe a tiny bit less scratching around furniture legs? But nothing noticeable enough to justify the extra cost. I'd probably stick with Varathane next time too and spend the savings elsewhere...
Totally get it—floor finishes can drive you nuts. Honestly, the real trick to keeping hardwood shiny (without losing your sanity) is regular dust mopping and a quick damp mop every couple weeks. Fancy finishes help, but nothing beats consistent upkeep...and bribing tenants with cookies doesn't hurt either.
"Fancy finishes help, but nothing beats consistent upkeep...and bribing tenants with cookies doesn't hurt either."
Haha, cookies—why didn't I think of that? Honestly, you're spot-on about regular dust mopping. I've got a historic home with original hardwood, and I've found that keeping grit off the floor is half the battle. Tried a fancy finish once, but it felt like more trouble than it was worth. Have you ever experimented with vinegar solutions? I've heard mixed things and haven't dared yet...
"Have you ever experimented with vinegar solutions? I've heard mixed things and haven't dared yet..."
Haha, I learned the vinegar lesson the hard way. Thought I'd be eco-friendly and gave it a whirl on my grandma's old oak floors—big mistake. It dulled the finish something fierce. Now I stick to a gentle wood cleaner and microfiber mop. You're right though, regular dusting really is key...and maybe the occasional cookie bribe wouldn't hurt either, lol.
