Whether you've just invested in a new statement piece or you're hoping to preserve a beloved vintage find, caring for your furniture properly is key to making it last. From wood and upholstery to leather and metal, a little attention goes a long way.
Here's your go-to guide to extend the life of your furniture and keep it looking fresh for years to come.
Careful Placement of Furniture
The location of your furniture can have a surprising impact on its lifespan. Here’s what to watch for:
- Keep it out of direct sunlight. UV rays can fade fabrics, bleach wood, and dry out leather.
- Avoid heaters and air vents. Extreme heat or cold can warp materials and damage finishes.
- Protect flooring and legs. Use felt pads or rugs to avoid scuffing your floors or weakening chair and table legs.
Clean Consistently
Gentle routine cleaning helps your furniture age gracefully:
- Dust weekly with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt that can scratch surfaces.
- Vacuum fabric upholstery every 1–2 weeks to remove dust, pet hair, and crumbs.
- Clean spills immediately using a soft, damp cloth—dab rather than rub to prevent stains from spreading.
Mindful Moving
Moving furniture carelessly can undo years of good upkeep. When shifting items around:
- Lift, don’t drag. This protects both your floors and the joints of your furniture.
- Disassemble when needed to prevent structural strain.
- Use covers or padding during transport to avoid dings and scratches.
Maintenance and Repairs
Prevention is better than cure—and cheaper than replacing your furniture! Make it a habit to:
- Check for and tighten loose screws or bolts.
- Re-glue or reinforce joints if they become unstable.
- Replace worn cushions, covers, or hardware rather than tossing the entire piece.
Invest in Protection Products
A few small products can go a long way:
- Furniture wax for wood care
- Leather conditioner to preserve suppleness
- Fabric stain guards to repel spills
- UV protectant sprays for outdoor or sun-exposed items
Find our cleaning products here
Care by Material
Each furniture material needs a different touch. Here is a quick breakdown:
Wood
- Use coasters, placemats, and trivets to prevent water rings and heat damage.
- Polish occasionally with a wood-safe polish or wax.
- Re-oil natural wood finishes if they start to look dry.
Upholstery
- Rotate and flip cushions regularly to even out wear.
- Spot clean using fabric-safe solutions based on the tag (W, S, WS, or X).
- Consider a fabric protector spray for added stain resistance.
Leather
- Wipe down regularly with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
- Condition with a leather cream every 6–12 months to prevent cracks.
- Avoid harsh cleaners, which can strip oils and damage the finish.
Metal
- Dust and wipe with a dry cloth.
- Immediately dry off any moisture to prevent rust.
- Use rust-preventative spray for outdoor items or high-humidity areas.
