Welcome to the Furniture Care Hub, where we believe a little TLC goes a long way. We want your furniture to look fabulous and stand the test of time. With these tips you can keep your furniture in tip-top shape, so it’ll stick around for years. Whether it’s wood, metal, or upholstery, we’ve got the lowdown on how to pamper your pieces and keep them looking as good as the day they moved in. So go ahead, show your furniture some love.
Taking good care of your timber furniture with veneers will help keep it looking beautiful for years to come. Follow these simple steps to maintain its appearance and durability:
Caring for Timber and Timber Veneers
1. Regular Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to dust your furniture regularly. Avoid using rough or abrasive cloths that might scratch the surface.
- Wiping: For routine cleaning, lightly dampen a soft cloth with water or a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. Wipe the surface along the grain, then immediately dry with a clean cloth to prevent moisture damage.
2. Protect from Heat and Sunlight
- Heat: Keep your furniture away from direct heat sources, like radiators or heating vents, as excessive heat can cause veneers to crack or warp.
- Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the finish and color of your veneer. Position your furniture out of direct sunlight or use curtains and blinds to protect it.
3. Prevent Scratches
- Use Coasters and Mats: Always use coasters under glasses and mugs, and place mats under hot dishes or serving trays to prevent heat damage and rings on the surface.
- Protective Pads: Consider adding felt pads or rubber protectors under decorative items and lamps to avoid scratches.
4. Avoid Excessive Moisture
- Spill Management: Immediately wipe up any spills to prevent water from seeping into the veneer and causing damage.
- Humid Conditions: In particularly humid environments, use a dehumidifier to reduce the risk of warping or peeling.
5. Polish with Care
- Polishing: If you like to polish your furniture, use a high-quality furniture polish designed for wood veneers. Apply it sparingly and buff with a soft cloth. Avoid silicone-based polishes, which can build up over time and leave a dull residue.
6. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving your furniture, always lift it instead of dragging it to avoid damage to the legs and joints.
- Support: Be sure to support your furniture from underneath to prevent stress on the veneers.
7. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaning Products: Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the veneer finish. Stick to products specifically designed for wood furniture care.
By following these care instructions, your timber veneer furniture will maintain its natural beauty for years to come.
Caring for Solid Timber
Solid timber furniture is a beautiful and durable investment that, with proper care, can last for generations. Follow these guidelines to keep your solid timber furniture looking its best:
1. Regular Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to dust your furniture regularly. A microfiber cloth is ideal as it attracts dust without scratching the surface.
- Wiping: For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth (not wet) with a mild soap solution. Wipe the surface gently, following the grain of the wood, and immediately dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots or moisture damage.
2. Protect from Heat and Sunlight
- Heat: Keep your furniture away from direct heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or heating vents. Excessive heat can cause the wood to dry out, warp, or crack.
- Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the wood and alter its color over time. Position your furniture out of direct sunlight or use curtains and blinds to shield it from UV rays.
3. Prevent Scratches and Marks
- Use Coasters and Placemats: Always use coasters under glasses, mugs, and vases, and place mats under hot dishes or serving trays to prevent heat damage and rings on the wood.
- Protective Pads: Attach felt pads under the legs of items placed on your furniture, such as lamps, decorative objects, or electronics, to avoid scratches.
- Cutting Boards: When preparing food or serving meals, use a cutting board or protective surface to prevent knife marks or scratches.
4. Maintain Humidity Levels
- Stable Environment: Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity. To minimize this movement, maintain a stable indoor humidity level between 40-60%. In very dry conditions, consider using a humidifier, and in humid conditions, a dehumidifier can help.
- Avoid Moisture: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water from penetrating the wood and causing stains or swelling.
5. Polishing and Finishing
- Polishing: Depending on the finish of your timber furniture (e.g., oil, wax, lacquer), use a high-quality polish or oil specifically designed for that finish. Apply sparingly, following the grain of the wood, and buff with a soft cloth to restore shine and protect the surface.
- Waxing: If your furniture is wax-finished, reapply wax once or twice a year to maintain its protective layer. Use a good quality furniture wax, apply it in thin layers, and buff it to a shine.
6. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving your furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to prevent damage to the legs, joints, and floor.
- Support: Support the furniture from the bottom and avoid carrying it by its top or edges, which could cause stress or cracks in the wood.
7. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaning Products: Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the wood's finish. Stick to mild, wood-safe cleaning products or solutions specifically designed for solid wood care.
By following these care instructions, your solid timber furniture will continue to be a stunning and functional part of your home for many years to come.
Caring for PU/Vegan Leather
Polyurethane (PU) upholstery is a durable, easy-to-clean material that offers a leather-like appearance without the high maintenance. To keep your PU furniture looking fresh and in top condition, follow these simple care guidelines:
1. Regular Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber cloth to regularly dust your PU upholstery and keep it free from dirt and debris.
- Wiping: For routine cleaning, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth (not soaking wet) and a mild soap solution. Avoid excessive water, and be sure to dry the surface immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
2. Stain Removal
- Spills: Immediately blot any spills with a clean, absorbent cloth to prevent staining. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain and push it deeper into the material.
- Spot Cleaning: For tougher stains, use a mild detergent mixed with water. Dampen a cloth with the solution, gently dab the stained area, and then wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Always test a small, hidden area first to ensure the cleaner doesn’t affect the color.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaning Products: Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on your PU upholstery, as they can cause discoloration and damage the material. Stick to mild, water-based cleaners specifically designed for synthetic upholstery.
4. Protect from Heat and Sunlight
- Heat: Keep your PU upholstery away from direct heat sources like radiators, heaters, and fireplaces, as excessive heat can cause the material to dry out and crack.
- Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration. Position your furniture away from direct sunlight, or use curtains and blinds to protect it from UV rays.
5. Prevent Scratches and Damage
- Sharp Objects: Avoid placing sharp or abrasive objects on the upholstery, as these can cause scratches or tears. Be mindful of things like pets’ claws, keys, and zippers.
- Furniture Covers: Consider using protective covers when the furniture is not in use for extended periods, especially in households with pets or young children.
6. Conditioning (If Applicable)
- Conditioning: Some PU materials may benefit from occasional conditioning to maintain their softness and prevent cracking. Use a conditioner specifically designed for PU upholstery, and follow the product instructions carefully. Always test in a small, inconspicuous area first.
7. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving your PU-upholstered furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to avoid stretching or tearing the material.
By following these care instructions, your PU upholstery will stay looking sleek and stylish, providing you with long-lasting comfort and durability.
Caring for Leather
Leather furniture is a luxurious and durable investment that, with proper care, can age beautifully over time. Follow these guidelines to keep your leather furniture looking its best:
1. Regular Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber cloth to regularly dust your leather furniture, keeping it free from dust and dirt.
- Wiping: For routine cleaning, wipe the leather surface with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid using too much water, and be sure to dry the leather immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
2. Conditioning
- Leather Conditioner: To maintain the softness and luster of your leather, apply a high-quality leather conditioner every 6-12 months. Gently rub the conditioner into the leather with a soft cloth, following the grain, and then buff with a dry cloth to restore its shine. Always test the conditioner on a small, hidden area first to ensure compatibility.
3. Spills and Stains
- Immediate Action: Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth—don’t rub, as this can spread the liquid and cause stains.
- Mild Soap Solution: For tougher stains, use a mild soap solution and a damp cloth. Gently dab the affected area, then wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth.
4. Protect from Heat and Sunlight
- Heat: Keep your leather furniture away from direct heat sources like radiators, heaters, and fireplaces, as excessive heat can cause the leather to dry out, crack, or fade.
- Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the leather to fade and lose its natural oils. Position your furniture away from windows with direct sunlight, or use curtains and blinds to protect it from UV rays.
5. Prevent Scratches and Damage
- Sharp Objects: Be cautious with sharp objects like keys, pens, or pets’ claws, as these can scratch or puncture the leather.
- Furniture Placement: Avoid placing leather furniture directly against walls or other surfaces that could cause friction and wear.
6. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaning Products: Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on leather, as these can damage the surface and cause discoloration. Stick to products specifically designed for leather care.
7. Moisture and Humidity Control
- Humidity: Leather is sensitive to changes in humidity. In very dry conditions, consider using a humidifier to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking. In humid environments, a dehumidifier can help prevent mold or mildew.
8. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving your leather furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to avoid stretching or damaging the leather.
By following these care instructions, your leather furniture will continue to look stunning and provide comfort for years to come. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that the leather ages gracefully, developing a rich patina over time.
Polyester or polyester blended upholstery is durable, easy to care for, and resistant to stains, making it a popular choice for busy households. Follow these care instructions to keep your polyester upholstered furniture looking fresh and comfortable:
Caring for Upholstery
1. Regular Cleaning
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and debris from your polyester upholstery regularly. This helps prevent dirt from settling into the fibers.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor spills or stains, blot the area immediately with a clean, dry cloth—avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
2. Stain Removal
- Mild Soap Solution: For tougher stains, mix a small amount of mild detergent with lukewarm water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the stain. Rinse the area with a cloth dampened with plain water to remove any soap residue, then blot dry.
- Stain Remover: If the stain persists, you can use a fabric-specific stain remover. Always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the color or texture of the upholstery.
3. Protect from Sunlight
- Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colors in polyester fabric to fade. Position your furniture away from direct sunlight or use curtains and blinds to protect it from UV rays.
4. Prevent Pilling
- Pilling Prevention: Polyester fabric is resistant to pilling, but if you notice any, gently remove pills using a fabric shaver or a small pair of scissors. Regular vacuuming and avoiding abrasive materials can help prevent pilling.
5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaning Products: Avoid using bleach, harsh chemicals, or abrasive cleaners on your polyester upholstery, as these can damage the fabric and cause discoloration. Stick to mild, water-based cleaners or products specifically designed for upholstery.
6. Moisture Control
- Avoid Excessive Moisture: While polyester is relatively moisture-resistant, it’s best to avoid excessive wetting of the fabric. If the upholstery becomes saturated, blot as much moisture as possible with a dry cloth and allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
7. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving your upholstered furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to prevent stress on the fabric and frame.
By following these care instructions, your polyester upholstered furniture will maintain its vibrant look and comfortable feel for years to come. Proper maintenance ensures that the fabric remains clean, fresh, and free from damage, making your furniture a lasting part of your home.
Caring for Metal Furniture
Powder-coated metal furniture is a stylish and durable choice for your indoor spaces. To keep it looking pristine, follow these care instructions:
1. Regular Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber cloth to regularly dust your powder-coated furniture. This helps keep the surface free from dust and dirt.
- Wiping: For routine cleaning, use a mild soap solution with lukewarm water. Dampen a soft cloth or sponge with the solution and gently wipe down the metal surface. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
2. Protect from Scratches and Damage
- Avoid Abrasives: Never use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scouring pads on powder-coated metal, as these can scratch and damage the finish.
- Protective Pads: To prevent scratches, use protective pads or felt under items placed on the furniture, such as vases, lamps, or decorations.
3. Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal
- Stubborn Stains: For tougher stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for powder-coated surfaces. Apply the cleaner with a soft cloth, rinse with clean water, and dry thoroughly.
- Preventing Scratches: If you notice any small chips or scratches that expose the metal underneath, touch them up promptly with a matching paint or a rust-inhibiting primer to maintain the finish and prevent rust.
4. Avoid Exposure to Moisture
- Spill Management: If liquids spill on the furniture, wipe them up immediately to prevent moisture from damaging the powder coating.
- Humidity Control: Keep your furniture in a low-humidity environment to avoid condensation, which can cause the metal to corrode over time.
5. Seasonal Maintenance
- Inspection: Regularly check your powder-coated metal furniture for any signs of wear, such as chips, scratches, or fading. Address these issues promptly to maintain its appearance and prevent further damage.
6. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving your metal furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to avoid scratching the surface or damaging the powder coating.
- Placement: Position your furniture away from direct heat sources, like radiators or heating vents, to prevent the powder coating from degrading.
By following these care instructions, your indoor powder-coated metal furniture will remain durable, stylish, and in top condition for years to come. Proper care ensures that your furniture stays as beautiful as the day you brought it home.
Caring for Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a beautiful and durable material that can add a unique touch to any space. To keep your terrazzo furniture looking its best, follow these care instructions:
1. Regular Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber cloth to regularly dust your terrazzo surfaces. This helps prevent dirt and debris from accumulating and scratching the surface.
- Wiping: For routine cleaning, wipe the surface with a damp cloth using a mild soap solution. Avoid soaking the terrazzo, and always dry the surface immediately with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots.
2. Protect from Stains
- Spill Management: Quickly blot up any spills, especially those involving acidic substances like wine, coffee, citrus juice, or vinegar, as these can etch or stain the surface. Use a clean, absorbent cloth to blot—avoid rubbing the spill.
- Sealing: If your terrazzo has been sealed, this offers additional protection against stains. However, it’s still important to clean up spills promptly to maintain the finish.
3. Prevent Scratches and Damage
- Avoid Abrasives: Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or rough sponges on terrazzo, as these can scratch or dull the surface.
- Protective Pads: Use coasters, placemats, or felt pads under objects like vases, glasses, or decorative items to prevent scratches and marks.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaning Products: Do not use harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners (like vinegar or lemon juice), or bleach on terrazzo, as these can damage the surface. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for stone surfaces.
- Polishing Products: If you need to polish your terrazzo, use a polish that is safe for stone surfaces, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Temperature Control
- Heat Resistance: While terrazzo is generally heat-resistant, it’s best to avoid placing hot items directly on the surface. Always use trivets or heat pads to protect the finish from potential thermal shock or discoloration.
6. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving terrazzo furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to avoid chipping or cracking the surface.
By following these care instructions, your terrazzo furniture will maintain its vibrant appearance and durability for many years. Proper maintenance ensures that your terrazzo stays as beautiful and functional as the day you brought it home.
Caring for Marble
Caring for Travertine
Sealed travertine is a timeless and natural stone that brings warmth and character to any space. With the right care, your travertine furniture will stay beautiful for years to come. Follow these instructions to protect and maintain its finish:
1. Regular Cleaning
Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or microfiber cloth to regularly remove dust and debris. This helps prevent fine particles from dulling the surface over time.
Wiping: For daily cleaning, use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild, pH-neutral soap. Gently wipe the surface, then dry immediately with a soft, clean cloth to avoid water marks or residue.
2. Protect from Stains
Spill Management: Travertine is porous, even when sealed, so spills should be blotted (not wiped) quickly—especially acidic liquids like wine, coffee, juice, or vinegar. These can etch the stone and break down the sealant.
Sealing: The sealant provides a barrier against stains, but it isn’t foolproof. Prompt cleaning is still essential to maintain the stone’s natural beauty.
3. Prevent Scratches and Damage
Avoid Abrasives: Never use rough sponges, scouring pads, or abrasive cleaners. These can scratch or dull the surface and remove the protective seal.
Protective Pads: Always use coasters, placemats, felt pads, or soft mats under tableware, décor, and heavy objects to prevent scratching or pressure marks.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Cleaning Products: Do not use bleach, acidic cleaners, ammonia, vinegar, or lemon-based products on travertine. These can erode the sealant and permanently damage the stone.
Stone-Safe Products: Choose pH-balanced cleaners specifically made for natural stone surfaces. Avoid anything that promises a “deep clean” unless it's stone-approved.
5. Temperature Control
Heat Resistance: Travertine is heat-tolerant, but direct contact with hot items can damage the finish or cause thermal shock. Always use trivets, heat mats, or coasters under hot dishes or mugs.
6. Sealing Maintenance
Re-sealing: Depending on how often the table is used, resealing may be needed every 6–12 months. To test, place a few drops of water on the surface—if they bead, the seal is holding. If the water absorbs, it’s time to reseal.
7. Handling and Moving
Lifting: Travertine can crack or chip if mishandled. Always lift your furniture when moving it—never drag it across the floor.
With proper care, sealed travertine will age gracefully, developing a soft patina that enhances its natural charm. A little love goes a long way—keep it sealed, clean, and protected, and it will reward you with timeless style and enduring strength.
Caring for Rattan & Woven Seating
Rattan and woven seating offer a beautiful, natural look that brings warmth and texture to any space. To keep your rattan and woven furniture in excellent condition, follow these care instructions:
1. Regular Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster to regularly dust your rattan and woven furniture. For more thorough cleaning, a vacuum with a brush attachment can help remove dirt from crevices.
- Wiping: Occasionally, wipe down the surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any built-up grime. Avoid soaking the rattan or woven material, as excessive moisture can weaken the fibers. Dry immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
2. Protect from Moisture
- Avoid Excessive Humidity: Rattan and woven materials can absorb moisture, which may cause them to warp or mildew. Keep your furniture in a well-ventilated area and avoid placing it in damp environments.
- Spill Management: If liquid spills occur, blot it up immediately with a dry cloth to prevent the material from absorbing moisture. Allow the area to air dry completely.
3. Prevent Sun Damage
- Sunlight Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause rattan and woven materials to fade and become brittle over time. Position your furniture away from direct sunlight or use curtains and blinds to protect it from UV rays.
4. Prevent Sagging
- Weight Distribution: Rattan and woven seating can sag if too much weight is placed on them for extended periods. Distribute weight evenly across the seat, and avoid standing or placing heavy objects on the furniture.
5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaning Products: Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on rattan and woven seating, as these can damage the natural fibers. Stick to mild, gentle cleaners if needed.
6. Seasonal Maintenance
- Deep Cleaning: For a deeper clean, you can mix a small amount of mild detergent with water and use a soft brush to gently scrub the rattan or woven areas. Be sure to rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
- Rehydration: If the rattan starts to look dry or brittle, you can apply a light coat of boiled linseed oil or lemon oil to restore moisture. Wipe off any excess oil and allow the furniture to dry before using it again.
7. Handling and Moving
- Lifting: When moving your rattan or woven furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to avoid stressing the material or causing damage to the weave.
By following these care instructions, your rattan and woven seating will remain beautiful and functional for years to come. Regular care will help maintain the natural beauty and strength of the fibers, ensuring that your furniture stays in great shape.
Caring for Concrete
Concrete furniture is a durable and stylish addition to any space, but proper care is essential to maintain its appearance and longevity. Follow these care instructions to keep your concrete furniture in top condition.
1. Placement & Handling
Always place concrete furniture on a flat, even surface to prevent unnecessary pressure on connection points.
When moving furniture, empty it first and lift rather than drag to avoid damage to both the furniture and the floor.
2. Protection from Heat & Scratches
Avoid placing hot items directly on the concrete surface. While concrete is heat-resistant, excessive heat can damage or discolor the sealer. Always use coasters or trivets.
Do not cut directly on the concrete top, as sharp objects can scratch or damage the protective sealer. Use a cutting board instead.
When writing or drawing on the table, use a protective mat to prevent surface indentations.
3. Cleaning & Spill Management
Wipe up spills immediately with a dry cloth or tissue to prevent staining.
For daily cleaning, use a mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth. Avoid soaking the surface.
Never use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh soaps, as these can erode the protective seal.
4. Preventing Wear & Discoloration
Avoid pushing chairs directly against the table. Leave a small gap between chairs and the tabletop to prevent marks or discoloration on chair backs and armrests.
Cover the table when not in use to protect it from environmental wear and enhance longevity.
5. Sealing & Waxing for Longevity
To maintain the concrete’s protective finish, apply a high-quality transparent furniture wax regularly.
Wax the surface once within the first two months of use and then every 3-6 months to maintain its durability and appearance.
If hairline cracks appear, apply a thick layer of wax and rub it in thoroughly to prevent moisture from seeping in.
By following these care instructions, your concrete furniture will retain its durability, beauty, and functionality for years to come. Regular maintenance will ensure your piece remains as striking as the day it arrived.
