Furniture Maintenance and Care Tips for Longevity
The furniture in your home is an investment that you will need to take care of to ensure it looks beautiful through the years. Each type of material, from wood to leather and fabric to glass, will need to be maintained.
When you buy your furniture, asking how to maintain it is an important question. Many people factor these things in when choosing pieces for their homes. While each material will have more specific instructions for maintenance, here are a few tips that can help you keep up your furniture’s longevity.
Dust and Clean Regularly
Removing dirt and dust is important for all types of furniture to maintain its appearance. Use a microfiber cloth to dust these surfaces around your home. To clean something, never use harsh chemicals. Be mindful of the materials your furniture is made from, and use cleaners that are suited to them.
Protect from Sunlight
Furniture that is exposed to sunlight, especially wood, can fade. Position it away from direct sunlight if you can, or use curtains. UV-protective tint on your windows can also protect the furniture in your home from exposure to damaging sun rays without hindering natural light.
Use Proper Care with Upholstery
Upholstered furniture should be vacuumed regularly to rid it of dust and debris. The brush attachment on your vacuum is an excellent tool for the job. You can also get into the crevices and seams with your other attachments. Don’t let spills fester; aim to clean them up before settling into the fabric.
Mocka Furniture also adds that you should consider rotating and flipping cushions to ensure even wear and prevent indentations. For deeper cleaning, many upholstery fabrics can be steam-cleaned, but always check the manufacturer’s care instructions first. It’s also advisable to use upholstery protectors or fabric sprays that can create a barrier against future stains. If stains do occur, spot-treating them with a suitable fabric cleaner as soon as possible can prevent long-term damage.
Maintaining Glass and Metal Surfaces
When you have furniture made from metal or glass, you will need to follow specific care instructions to keep them shiny and prevent damage. With metal, you will want to dust it regularly using a soft cloth. You can remove stubborn stains with a metal cleaner, though if water is involved, dry the surface thoroughly to prevent water spots or rust.
With glass, you can use a glass cleaner or vinegar and water mixed together. Simply spray it on and wipe it away with a lint-free cloth. If you have an old newspaper, you can use it to get a streak-free finish on glass. Rough materials can scratch glass, so be sure you’re only using gentle fabric cloths for the job.
Preventing Damage from Kids and Pets
Your kids and pets are an integral part of your life and usually serve as the pulse of your home. However, no matter how well-behaved they may be, they may cause damage to your furniture. A little measure of protection can go a long way to prevent any mishaps. You can use furniture covers or throw blankets to add an additional barrier between the furniture material and any spills or messes. Take the steps to train your pets and teach your children not to jump onto the furniture or use anything that can scratch it.
By following these care tips, you will prolong the life and look of your favorite furniture. If you are ready to buy new furniture, visit a furniture store in Sarasota, Florida, to find the right furniture and learn how to care for it too!
- by Matt Watts
