Materials Care Guide

Simple, material-specific guidance to help your pieces age beautifully and last longer.

Dining table and chairs in a bright interior

Before anything,
follow these basics.

No matter the material, a few simple habits will go a long way in preserving your furniture.

Golden rules

Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
Keep away from heat
Keep away air-conditioning outlets
Clean spills immediately
Use coasters, mats, and protective pads
Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners
Natural timber dining table

Timber

Timber is a natural material that evolves over time. Subtle movement, grain variation, and minor marks are all part of its character.

Do

  • Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water
  • Wipe spills immediately
  • Use coasters and placemats
  • Apply a quality furniture wax every 3-6 months

Don't

  • Place near strong heat, sunlight, or air-conditioning
  • Use silicone, petroleum, or abrasive cleaners
  • Leave water or liquids sitting on the surface

Wipe timber surfaces with a soft, damp cloth and dry immediately. Use coasters and felt pads to protect from heat, moisture, and scratches, and avoid placing pieces in direct sunlight or near strong heat sources.

Care Routine
DailyDust with a soft cloth
WeeklyWipe gently with mild cleaner if needed
SeasonalApply wax to nourish and protect
Fabric upholstered armchair

Fabric

Fabric upholstery is soft and comfortable, but needs regular gentle care to prevent dust, stains, and uneven wear.

Do

  • Vacuum regularly using a soft brush attachment
  • Blot spills immediately with a clean dry cloth
  • Rotate cushions where possible to even out wear

Don't

  • Rub stains aggressively into the fabric
  • Use bleach or harsh chemical cleaners
  • Place in prolonged direct sunlight

Keep fabric pieces fresh by removing dust often and treating spills quickly. For deeper marks, use an upholstery-safe cleaner or seek professional advice before applying products.

Care Routine
WeeklyVacuum with soft brush attachment
As neededSpot clean gently after testing first
SeasonalProfessional clean for heavy-use pieces
Leather dining chairs

Leather

Leather is durable and develops a unique patina over time, but is sensitive to environment and contact.

Do

  • Wipe with a clean, dry cloth
  • Clean spills immediately by blotting
  • Keep away from strong light and heat

Don't

  • Use harsh chemicals or unknown cleaners
  • Let oils, creams, or liquids sit on the surface
  • Place sharp or rough objects directly on it

Gently dust leather surfaces and wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Keep pieces away from direct sunlight and heat sources, and avoid harsh cleaners that can dry or crack the hide over time.

Care Routine
WeeklyDust with soft cloth
OccasionalUse leather-specific care products
Stone tabletop detail

Stone

Stone and marble are naturally porous materials that require careful protection.

Do

  • Clean with pH-neutral cleaners
  • Wipe spills immediately
  • Use coasters and mats

Don't

  • Use acidic or harsh cleaning products
  • Place items directly without protection

Use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth on stone and marble surfaces. Wipe spills promptly, avoid acidic substances, and use trivets or coasters to minimise etching and staining.

Care Routine
WeeklyWipe dry
OccasionalReseal with professional help if needed
Dining table with metal base

Metal

Metal furniture is durable and industrial, but can develop marks or rust over time.

Do

  • Keep surfaces dry
  • Clean with a soft cloth
  • Use protective pads where needed

Don't

  • Use abrasive cloths or cleaners
  • Leave moisture sitting on the surface

Dust metal frames regularly and wipe with a soft, damp cloth as needed. Dry thoroughly to prevent water marks, and avoid corrosive cleaners that can damage protective coatings.

Care Routine
WeeklyWipe clean and dry
OccasionalDamp wipe followed by drying
Painted blue sideboard

Painted Furniture

Painted finishes offer a clean, refined look, but require gentle care to maintain their surface and avoid marks or wear.

Do

  • Dust regularly with a soft cloth or duster
  • Clean gently using a pH-neutral cleaner
  • Dry surfaces after cleaning
  • Use felt pads or protective layers under objects

Don't

  • Use abrasive cloths or harsh cleaners
  • Expose to excessive heat, cold, or moisture

Clean painted surfaces with a soft, damp cloth and mild, pH-neutral cleaner if needed. Avoid abrasive pads, strong chemicals, and prolonged moisture to protect the finish from chips, peeling, or discolouration.

Care Routine
WeeklyLight dusting
WeeklyGentle wipe with mild cleaner if needed
As neededCheck surfaces for marks or pressure points
Cane and rattan dining chairs

Cane & Rattan

Lightweight and natural, cane and rattan thrive in stable, dry environments.

Do

  • Dust regularly with a soft brush or cloth
  • Clean gently with mild soapy water when needed

Don't

  • Overexpose to moisture
  • Leave damp after cleaning

Vacuum cane and rattan with a soft brush attachment and wipe with a lightly damp cloth. Keep away from excessive humidity or direct sunlight to reduce sagging, cracking, or fading in the woven fibres.

Care Routine
WeeklyDust or brush
OccasionalLight spot cleaning
Glass display cabinet

Glass

Glass surfaces are clean and minimal, but require care to prevent marks and scratches.

Do

  • Clean with a soft cloth or glass-safe cleaner
  • Use coasters and protective pads

Don't

  • Place hot or cold items directly on the surface
  • Drag objects across the glass

Clean glass with a non-abrasive glass cleaner and a soft cloth, wiping in gentle, circular motions. Avoid abrasive pads or powders that may scratch the surface over time.

Care Routine
As neededWipe clean to remove dust and marks
Large media wall unit secured in a living room

Safety first.

To prevent tipping and potential injury, secure your furniture properly.

  • Anchor tall or heavy furniture to a wall
  • Secure TVs separately
  • Use drawer locks if children are present
  • Avoid climbing or uneven weight distribution