When cleaning your hardwood floor it is best to not use a cleaner that is oil based as well as excessive amounts of water. These two items will cause more damage than do good to your floor. Hardwood floors are very sensitive and need to be handled with utmost care.
Hardwood floors need to be treated gently. To avoid scratches and damage to them put small mats or carpets near the entranceways. This will give people a place to wipe or remove their shoes and to cut down on the wear and tear on your carpet. You can get a collection of them for all of the seasons and holidays to be more creative.