FURNITURE CARE |Cleaning / Maintenance

INDOOR FURNITURE

Tips and tricks for keeping your furniture looking fabulous.

• Fabric Upholstery

Wipe all spills clean with lukewarm water and a damp cloth or sponge; blot to remove excess water; air dry. To prevent fading, keep fabric out of direct sunlight. Rotate cushions and vacuum crevices regularly. Clean all pieces simultaneously to prevent any variances in color. Professional upholstery cleaning is recommended for worse stains or spills.

Professional cleaning service is recommended. Vacuum or brush regularly to remove dust and grime. Some fabrics may require brushing with a non-metallic, stiff-bristle brush to restore appearance. After a spill, blot immediately the spilled liquid. Clean the spot or stain from the outside to the middle of the area affected to prevent circling. To remove soil, clean the fabric with the foam from a mild water-based detergent. Test on a small inconspicuous area before proceeding. Do not use household solvents, hot water extraction or steam cleaning. Blue-jean dye can transfer from jeans onto white or light-colored upholstery fabrics with contact, even after several washings of the jeans.  

 Our cushions are designed for long-lasting support. They are all flame retardant, environmentally safe, and guaranteed. They do require some care to retain their original shape and condition, however. Simply reverse and switch cushions every few months so that they experience equal wear.

 In case of spills or stains, most fabrics respond to spot cleanings with water-free solvents or mild detergents; however, to be safe, consult a professional dry cleaner. Always check a small, inconspicuous area before cleaning yourself. NEVER remove the cushion covers for separate dry cleaning or washing, even though they do have zippers. Any “tumble” method of cleaning may destroy the backing or, in some other way, cause damage to the fabric.

• Leather

For minor spots and spills, immediately wipe with a soft white cloth dampened with distilled water and let air–dry. Do not dry with hair dryers, heaters, etc. For spills of butter, oil or grease, wipe up any excess with a clean, dry cloth. Do not apply water or try to wash the spot. Leave the spot alone. The spot should dissipate into the leather after a short period of time. To keep the leather supple and prevent fading, protect it from exposure to direct sunlight and heating

vents. Dust with a clean soft cloth. Vacuum crevices regularly.

• Vinyl or Faux Leather (PU/PVC)

Vacuum crevices regularly. We recommend any non-commercial vinyl cleaner to remove spots.  

Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water, or all-purpose cleaner. Do not use a solvent. Some foods may stain white and light-colored PVC or polyurethane upholstery coverings. Clean any food spills immediately to prevent permanent stains. Blue-jean dye can transfer from jeans onto white and light-colored PVC or polyurethane with contact, even after several washings of the jeans. Clean blue jean dye marks with isopropyl rubbing alcohol. 

• Wood Furniture (including Real Wood -  acacia, alder, cherry, elm, fir, mahogany, oak, pine  and teak. Wood Veneers & MDF)

Mineral streaks, grain variations, knots, small pits, and other marks of nature are normally found in fine woods and are not considered defects. Variations cannot be controlled or corrected and will even occur among pieces within a set. On some items we intentionally dent, discolor and scratch the wood to create an aged appearance. Techniques used include physically marking the surface with a blunt instrument, marking with darker stain and splattering with stain. An aged appearance is sometimes achieved by rubbing pumice or a similar medium into wood pores. The number and nature of distress marks are a matter of design by the manufacturer and cannot be changed, nor is it an option that can be deleted.

Solid wood furniture is susceptible to changes in humidity. It contracts in a dry environment and expands in a moist environment, creating seasonal cracks, minor warping, and inconsistencies in alignment of doors, drawers, and tabletops. These are normal changes that should not be a cause for alarm. These changes do not affect the structural integrity of the piece and cannot be corrected. Maintaining proper humidity during the winter months is recommended.

​*RECLAIMED WOOD*

Most products are handcrafted of solid reclaimed timber from the exteriors of decades-old buildings. Rustic, rough-hewn wood is left unfinished to celebrate its character and provenance. Each unique, one-of-a-kind item displays the nicks, knots, and imperfections that speak to the wood’s former life.

Each board will vary in surface texture and color shading. There may be natural splits and cracks visible. Holes where nails, bolts or hinges were applied may be open and may exhibit signs of rust around them. Large holes may be “plugged” with a wood insert. All these features add to the unique individual character of the furniture and are not considered defects.

Many of our offerings are left in their natural state and have a light application of wax to offer some surface protection. A few of these pieces have either a simple stain applied, or we have opted to paint them and then strip the paint, offering a unique aged appearance. 

If, for example, red wine is spilled on a reclaimed tabletop, it must be cleaned immediately to avoid staining. Using a clean, dry cloth and blotting, not rubbing, the spill will usually work.

*Please note that the variations and different characteristics you can expect from reclaimed timbers are not only expected but applauded!​

Most wood pieces absorb stain differently. Batches of stains and paints can vary slightly over time. Hand-applied stains, paints, and glazes can vary slightly. Finishes change as they age. Because of these issues, we cannot guarantee a 100% perfect stain match from item to item in a new order. Minor variations will always be present, regardless of cost.

 Wood finishes will change in appearance as they are used. Items with low sheen finishes tend to develop an increased sheen over time. Slight variations in appearance and the fit of joints and seams will result from the normal expansion and contraction of wood as it responds to climatic changes in the home. Many wood species darken or redden with age. White painted finishes tend to yellow with age. These changes in tone, fit, finish, and texture are normal signs of aging and are not covered by any warranty.

To maintain the quality of your wood furniture, do not expose it to direct sunlight or excessive temperatures; extreme changes in humidity can cause warping. Always use coasters, pads, cloth or felt to protect the furniture surface. Use protective mats under hot dishes. Use a protective pad when writing with a pen. Lift objects rather than dragging them over the furniture surface. Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth. Dust often using a soft, clean, lint free cloth. Avoid harsh fabrics, paper towels or disposable dusting towels, as they may scratch the surface. Use a non–silicone and non–wax polish; do not use soap, water or wax.

Damage Prevention

Apply adhesive felt glides to lamps and similar objects before placing them on tables. When serving hot food, always use place mats under the plates and hot pads under the serving containers. Do not set synthetics, rubber or plastics on the wood finish as they might contain chemicals that will damage the finish. Do not leave newspapers or magazines on wood as the ink can bleed onto the finish and into the wood.

Polishing

Do not use silicone waxes, lemon oil, or other oily polishes. They can attract dust and grit, causing scratches in the finish. We recommend Furniture Cream for standard lacquered wood finishes once a year or less. 

Other Tips

If perfume or nail polish remover is spilled, do not blot it off. The lacquer which has been softened by the chemicals should return to normal when the liquid has totally evaporated. Allow the area to dry, rub it with a fine automotive polishing compound, then apply a fresh coat of polish.

If candle wax drops on your wood finished surface, hold an ice cube to the wax to harden it. Blot up the water and use a dull plastic spatula to remove the wax without touching the wood. Gently scrape away any remaining wax and rub the area with furniture polish to replace the protective coating 

•  Danish cord

The Danish cord used for our seats and backrests is hand-woven. Variations in the material and its weaving are expected and give it its unique look. The Danish cord has a layer of wax that makes it liquid repellent, but some heavily pigmented foods and beverages may stain it. To clean Danish cord, dab with a damp cloth and neutral soap solution. Do not rub the material.

• Seagrass

As seagrass ages, it will take on a more muted shade for that lived-in look we love. To preserve its beauty, avoid exposure to the sun.

For dusting, simply wipe the seagrass with a soft, dry cloth in the direction of the strands. Do not wipe diagonally or perpendicular to the cords, as this can force debris between the cords.

Vacuum periodically using a soft brush attachment. This can help dislodge and remove some of the debris left behind in between the seagrass weaves.

Blot spills immediately with a damp cloth. Do not rub the soiled area. Gently dab and blot instead.

Tiny, grass-like strands might stick out from the cords. Resist the urge to yank them, as it could harm the cords. Instead, delicately snip away the loose fibers with a pair of scissors  

• Painted Steel

Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Rinse and wipe dry. Do not use a scouring pad or an abrasive cleanser. This could damage and scratch the paint finish.

• Steel & Stainless Steel

Always use coasters, pads, cloth or felt to protect the furniture surface. Use protective mats under hot dishes. Wipe up spills promptly. Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Wipe in the grain direction to prevent marking or scratching of the surface. Rinse and wipe with a dry cloth, to avoid water marks. To get rid of stains, use a stainless steel cleaner, and follow the product instructions. Wipe in the grain direction. Do not use a scouring pad or powder cleanser, as these products may damage the finish. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, chemical solvents, strong detergents, and cleaners with bleach.

• Polished Marble and Stone

As hard as stone or marble is, the surface is still porous and might stain from liquids or foods, scratched and chipped.Protect from acidic substances like wine, coffee, fruit juice and tomato sauce. Always blot spills immediately and rinse with a clean, damp cloth. To prevent ring marks, place coasters under glasses and dishes, and use mats or runners beneath hard objects that might scratch the surface. Do not place hot items directly on the tabletop. Do not use chemical cleansers, dusting sprays, abrasive cleaners, or furniture polish. Dust frequently with a soft dry cloth.

• Glass & Faux Marble / Faux Stone / Faux Wood

To clean, wipe with a soft damp cloth. Avoid the use of chemical and abrasive cleaners. Wipe up spills immediately.

For glass tops and shelves, glass cleaner may be used, but avoid spraying it onto the metal or wood frame.

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

For daily care, wipe with a soft dry cloth. Wipe spills with a clean dry cloth. Avoid the use of harsh cleaners and abrasives. Store indoors during long periods of inclement weather. Make sure furniture is completely dry before storage. Cover furniture with outdoor covers when left outside during inclement weather or when not in use. Use a suitable outdoor cover that provides proper ventilation while preventing moisture buildup.

•Outdoor Polypropylene Weave

All our poly-weave products need to be cleaned and washed regularly when left outside. Simply start by wiping down with a damp cloth or warm water. For tougher dirt use warm water and a non-abrasive household soap.

•Teak & Acacia Outdoor Furniture

Teak and Acacia woods are naturally resistant to the elements and the original color may weather and soften to a silver-grey patina if left outside and untreated. To remove the silver-grey appearance and natural day–to– day dirt, wash with warm soapy water using a soft scrub brush, stroking lightly in the direction of the grain. Allow to dry completely. Commercial teak cleaners and oil may be used to restore the natural color and luster of the wood.

•Metal & Mesh Weave Outdoor Furniture

Wash frame with a mild solution of soap and water; rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. Cover furniture with outdoor furniture cover when not in use. Before storing, drain all water that may have accumulated around the frame. Store indoors when not in use or during periods of inclement weather.

•Outdoor Furniture Cushions

Extend the life of your cushions by keeping them free of dirt and foliage. Periodically shaking or rinsing the cushions is recommended. Thoroughly flush using a hose with cold water to remove all soil and residue. For deeper cleaning, spot clean with mild soap. Do not machine wash or use chlorine bleach. Stand cushions on end and dry completely in the sun before using or storing. Do not place in dryer. To prevent mildew, never wrap in plastic for storage and ensure the cushion is completely dry before storing. Store indoors when not in use for long periods of time or during inclement weather.

•Outdoor Faux Concrete

Our faux concrete collections come with cleaning and care instructions. We recommend mild soap and water to easily remove surface dirt or food from non-porous surface.

•Outdoor Poly-wood Furniture

Wash frame with a mild solution of soap and water; rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. For oils or food rings/ stains use a mild degreaser, such as citrus degreaser then wipe with a dry cloth.