Honestly, I’ve had the opposite experience with wax. I know it sounds like more work, but for me, it’s been cheaper and actually kinda forgiving. When my kids dragged a chair across the hallway, I just buffed in a bit more wax and it blended right in. Maybe it’s not as “set it and forget it” as oil, but I like that I can spot-fix without buying a whole new product. Plus, I don’t mind a little patina—makes the place feel lived-in, you know?
I get what you mean about the patina—there’s something nice about a floor that doesn’t look too perfect. But honestly, I’ve had a tough time with wax showing smudges and footprints, especially in high-traffic spots. Maybe it’s just my old dog tracking stuff in, but I find myself re-buffing way more than I’d like. Oil’s been lower maintenance for me, even if touch-ups aren’t quite as invisible. Guess it just depends on the chaos level at home...
Honestly, I hear you on the wax hassle.
That’s been my experience too, especially in rentals with a lot of turnover. Oil’s not perfect, but it hides the daily mess better and saves me time. Patina’s great, but not if I’m constantly chasing after smudges. Sometimes practicality wins out over looks, especially with pets in the mix.I find myself re-buffing way more than I’d like.
Honestly, I’ve tried both and I totally get the wax fatigue. Here’s my quick-and-dirty routine for rentals or busy homes: 1) Quick sweep, 2) Oil finish every few months, 3) Spot clean as needed. Wax looks amazing for about a week, then it’s smudge city—especially if you’ve got dogs or kids running around. Oil’s not as shiny but it’s way less maintenance. If you’re flipping or renting, I’d say oil wins for sanity’s sake... unless you really love buffing floors in your free time?
If you’re flipping or renting, I’d say oil wins for sanity’s sake... unless you really love buffing floors in your free time?
Honestly, I’ve seen the same thing in a ton of rental units—wax just doesn’t hold up to heavy foot traffic and pets. Oil’s a lifesaver for quick turnarounds. I’ve had clients swear by the “quick sweep and oil” combo. It’s not as glossy, but it sure keeps things looking fresh without all the elbow grease.
