At UrShelff, we believe that investing in quality furniture is an investment in your home’s beauty and functionality. To ensure that your pieces continue to look their best and stand the test of time, proper care and maintenance are essential.
Here’s a helpful guide with essential do’s and don’ts to keep your furniture in pristine condition:
Do’s:
- Do Clean Regularly: Dust and dirt can accumulate on your furniture, leading to wear and tear over time. Regularly dust your furniture using a soft, microfiber cloth to remove dirt and debris. For upholstered pieces, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to keep them free from dust and crumbs. Clean your furniture as per the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damage.
- Do Use Coasters & Mats: Protect your furniture from stains, water rings, and scratches by always using coasters for drinks and placemats for food. This is especially important for wooden or glass surfaces. Coasters and mats provide a barrier that helps keep surfaces looking pristine.
- Do Rotate Cushions & Pillows: To prevent uneven wear on your cushions or upholstery, regularly rotate them. Fluff and turn pillows to maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming flat over time. This will help extend the lifespan of your upholstered furniture.
- Do Clean Spills Immediately: Life happens, and spills are inevitable. However, the key to preventing permanent damage is acting quickly. For spills on fabric or upholstery, blot (don’t rub) the area immediately with a clean cloth to absorb excess liquid. For wood surfaces, wipe up spills promptly with a dry cloth to avoid water damage or stains.
- Do Keep Furniture Away from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause colors to fade and materials to weaken. Try to place your furniture in areas that are shielded from the sun, or use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective films on windows to reduce exposure. This is especially important for fabrics, wood, and leather.
- Do Check for Loose Screws or Bolts: Over time, screws and bolts can loosen due to regular use. Periodically check your furniture, especially chairs and tables, and tighten any screws or bolts to maintain stability and avoid accidents.
- Do Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Keep your furniture away from extreme heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or direct air vents. Extreme temperatures can cause wood to warp, leather to crack, and fabrics to weaken.
Don’ts:
- Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals or Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on your furniture, as these can damage finishes, upholstery, or materials. Instead, opt for a mild soap solution or cleaner designed specifically for the type of furniture you have (e.g., wood polish for wooden pieces or fabric-safe upholstery cleaners).
- Don’t Place Heavy Items on Delicate Surfaces: Avoid placing heavy or sharp objects on delicate furniture surfaces, such as glass or polished wood. This can lead to scratches, dents, or even cracking. Always use trays, placemats, or coasters to protect surfaces from damage.
- Don’t Overexpose Furniture to Humidity: Wood furniture, in particular, can be highly sensitive to changes in humidity. Excess moisture or dryness can cause the wood to expand or contract, leading to cracks, warping, or joint loosening. Keep your furniture in an area with a stable temperature and humidity level.
- Don’t Drag Furniture Across the Floor: Dragging furniture across the floor can damage both the furniture and your flooring. Always lift furniture when moving it or use furniture pads on the legs to prevent scratches on both the furniture and your floors.
- Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance: Furniture requires regular attention to keep it in top condition. Don’t wait for visible damage to occur before addressing issues like squeaky joints, loose screws, or worn-out cushions. Proactive maintenance can prevent more costly repairs or replacements in the future.
- Don’t Allow Pets to Scratch or Chew on Furniture: While pets are a cherished part of the family, their claws or teeth can cause significant damage to your furniture. Trim their nails regularly and provide them with scratch pads or toys to prevent scratching furniture. Consider using protective covers or slipcovers to safeguard upholstery.
- Don’t Use Too Much Weight on Furniture: Exceeding the weight capacity of furniture, especially chairs and sofas, can cause damage to the structure or upholstery. Be mindful of the weight limits specified by the manufacturer, and avoid placing excessive weight or too many items on your furniture.
In Conclusion
By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your furniture continues to look beautiful and function well for years to come. At UrShelff, we create high-quality pieces that are built to last, and with the right care, your investment will continue to enhance your home for a long time.
If you have any questions about caring for specific types of furniture or need advice on maintaining your pieces, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help!
Your Furniture, Our Commitment to Quality
With proper care, your furniture will continue to add elegance, comfort, and style to your home — year after year.
