We understand that life is busy, and cleaning your furniture shouldn’t be an all-day task. Investing in new furniture is a big step toward creating a home that feels comfortable and inviting—and keeping that fresh, new look is easier than you think! With these easy, low-effort steps, your furniture will last beautifully for years and leave more time for what matters most: family.
Wood
Wood furniture thrives in low humidity and away from heat sources or direct light, which can cause discoloration.
- Cleaning: Skip the all-purpose cleaners or harsh chemicals, which can damage the finish and aren’t eco-friendly. Instead, use a soft cloth slightly dampened with warm, soapy water to wipe away grime. Wring the cloth out thoroughly to avoid soaking, and dry everything with a clean cloth immediately.
- Dusting & Polishing: Lamb’s wool dusters work wonders on carved details, thanks to their lanolin content. When it’s time to polish, use a small amount of furniture oil or wax to bring out the natural beauty, but avoid oily polishes that attract dust and show fingerprints.
- Spills: Tackle spills right away, as liquids can easily stain wood. Keep a wood-repair kit on hand for those minor scratches that life can bring.
Upholstery
From keeping colors vibrant to handling spills, upholstery care keeps your sofas and chairs looking fresh and inviting.
- Protect from Fading: Regularly vacuuming and flipping cushions helps your upholstery wear evenly. Keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid color fading.
- Spills: Blot, don’t rub! Absorb spills with a clean cloth, steering clear of printed paper towels that could transfer color. Club soda or a dab of vinegar can work wonders on stains—just be sure to rinse thoroughly.
- Cleaning Products: Always check the care label before trying a cleaner, and test in a hidden spot first. Light sprays of Scotchguard or similar products can help shield against future spills.
- Deep Clean: Most manufacturers recommend a professional upholstery cleaning every 1-2 years to keep fabric in top shape, but these tips will help keep it clean between those treatments.
Leather
Leather brings character and a unique patina as it ages, but it needs care to stay soft and supple.
- Everyday Care: Leather naturally dries out, so keep it away from heat and direct sunlight. A quick dusting with a damp cloth works well for routine cleaning, and a vacuum can help get crumbs out of seams.
- Spills & Minor Scratches: Wipe spills immediately with a clean cloth and use your fingertips or a chamois to gently buff out minor scratches.
- Deep Cleaning: Every 6-12 months, condition leather with a mild solution of ¼ cup vinegar and ½ cup warm water, followed by a light coat of leather conditioner. Avoid harsh polishes or oil-based cleaners, which can harm leather’s finish.
Wicker
Wicker’s natural texture adds beauty to any room, but its tight weave requires a bit of special care.
- Routine Care: Dust often, vacuum the folds, and cover outdoor wicker when not in use to avoid fading. For tough-to-reach spots, a toothbrush or compressed air can help loosen dirt.
- Cleaning: Resin wicker is durable and can handle a simple soap-and-water clean, while bamboo, rattan, or willow wicker benefits from a soft brush and warm, soapy water. Avoid over-wetting paper or twisted grass wicker—just a damp cloth will do.
- Preventing Mildew: Wicker can develop mildew in humid conditions. Be sure to let it dry thoroughly after cleaning by setting it in the sun or using a fan.
By following these simple care tips, your furniture will look clean and inviting year after year—making your home feel just as beautiful and comfortable as the day you brought it all home! Oh Yeah!