Furniture Care
With the right care, your furniture will stay looking beautiful and last for years. This guide covers care tips for different furniture materials and finishes.
Contents
Cabinet Furniture
Solid Wood (e.g., Oak)
- Wipe with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid soaking the wood.
- Lacquered finishes are low-maintenance; oiled finishes need specialist oil occasionally to prevent drying.
- Wood naturally expands/contracts with temperature changes — gaps or tight doors may appear seasonally.
Real Wood Veneers
- Thin layers of real wood on a stable base prevent warping.
- Treat as you would solid wood: gentle cleaning, avoid excessive moisture or heat.
Laminate Veneers
- Durable and easy to clean — just wipe with a damp cloth.
- Not as long-lasting as real wood; once damaged, repair is usually not possible.
General Cabinet Care
- Use coasters and placemats to protect from heat and moisture.
- Avoid strong sunlight — it can cause fading over time.
- Never use silicone spray polishes; they build up and are hard to remove for future repairs.
- Wipe spills immediately, especially alcohol and acidic foods.
- Use felt pads under ornaments to prevent scratches.
Fabric Upholstery
General Care
- Rotate and plump cushions regularly to maintain shape and even wear.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Vacuum gently with a soft brush attachment.
Cleaning
- Follow manufacturer’s cleaning codes (e.g., dry clean only where stated).
- Remove spills quickly with a clean, absorbent cloth — blot, don’t rub.
- Professional cleaning is recommended for tough stains.
Fabric Characteristics
- Pilling (small fabric balls) may occur naturally over time — remove gently with a fabric shaver.
- Creasing is normal on soft, relaxed fabrics like velvets or linens.
- Slubs (small knots) in natural fabrics are part of their character, not faults.
Leather Upholstery
General Leather Care
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
- Clean with a slightly damp cloth using only water — no detergents or harsh cleaners.
- Use leather-specific care kits every 6–12 months to clean and protect the surface.
Leather Types
- Aniline Leather: Soft, natural look, minimal protective coating. Use specialist products to prevent staining.
- Semi-Aniline: Same look as aniline but with a light protective layer for extra durability.
- Pigmented & Bi-Cast Leather: Heavier protective coating, easy to clean, more stain-resistant.
Things to Avoid
- Keep leather away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent fading or drying.
- Avoid sharp objects (e.g., pet claws, buckles) that may scratch the surface.
- Don’t use household cleaners, baby wipes, or abrasive pads — they damage leather finishes.
Ceramic & Sintered Stone Tables
Everyday Care
- Wipe with warm water and a mild detergent. Dry with a soft cloth.
- Avoid abrasive sponges or harsh chemical cleaners — they can scratch or dull the surface.
- Use coasters and trivets under hot pans or dishes, even though ceramic is heat-resistant.
Stain & Impact Resistance
- Ceramic and sintered stone are highly resistant to stains, but strong dyes (e.g., turmeric, red wine) should be cleaned promptly.
- While tough, edges can chip if struck with heavy objects — take care when handling cookware.
What to Avoid
- No bleach or strong alkali cleaners.
- No dragging rough or metal objects across the surface.
Need More Help?
If you have any questions about caring for your furniture, please contact us. We’re happy to provide tailored advice.