SALES & ADVICE 01579 343078

SALES & ADVICE 01579 343078

Dining & Cabinet Furniture Care

Taking care of your cabinet furniture will ensure its longevity.

We have assembled some helpful hints and tips on how to care for it. This should be read in conjunction with any care information which comes with the product.

Wood is a natural material and so there will be characteristics within products unique to individual pieces. Distressing, colour differences and on some rustic items, natural knotting can be present. All wood varies in grain pattern and colour and no two pieces are alike. Wood can be prone to very slight movement due to climate change, which is perfectly normal.

An item of furniture on display in our showroom is only a representation of the item you will receive. There is no guarantee that the grain will match the one on display, as each cut of timber is unique. If ordering pieces of the same range at different times, you will find that colours will vary; this is due to the unique qualities of wood.

Wood Furniture Care

Painted Finishes

The hand finishing of individual items result in a subtle variation in finish between pieces and give the range unique character. Over time hairline cracks may appear in the paint finish where there are joints. This is a natural part of the ageing process which occurs on all painted furniture. Dust and clean with a soft, dry cloth.

Satin Finish

Simply needs dusting. Finger marks and smears can be removed by using a slightly damp cloth with warm soapy water. Ensure it is dried with a soft cloth straight away.

Oiled Finish

Dust in the direction of the grain with a dry, lint free cloth. If the wood starts to look dry, it can be refreshed by lightly re-oiling with Danish oil. Always ensure the surface is dry and dust free before applying any oil.

Waxed Finish

Dust in the direction of the grain with a dry, lint free cloth. If the furniture becomes scratched or marked, rub some solid wax into the damaged area to exclude moisture. If the wood starts to look dry, it can be refreshed by re-waxing with a light coat of soft wax polish. Always make sure the surface is dry and dust free before applying the wax. Avoid buffing the surface too much, after applying the coat of wax, as this will result in a ‘shiny’ surface.

Lacquered Wood

A gentle wipe with a lint free cleaning cloth, in the direction of the grain, is all that is required to maintain the appearance of the lacquered wood.

Foil Finish

Collections using foil finishes are generally offered at the least expensive end of cabinet ranges. Real wood grain patterns are transferred onto thin foils and bonded onto manmade board. This makes an ideal choice if you require a product which is of low maintenance.

General Care

  • When fitted with castors, these are generally for transportation purposes only, so please follow the manufacturer’s recommendation to remove them, as this will enhance the look and stability of the product.
  • Do not tilt dining chairs on their back legs when sitting on them.
  •  Dust frequently with a cloth that attracts rather than scatters dust.
  • Whatever the finish, never use chemical or abrasive cleaners on your furniture. Avoid cabinet furniture coming into contact with aggressive products like solvents, spirits, acidic materials or cream cleaners, especially those containing silicone, as damage to the finish may result.
  • Dining tables should be left extended, if possible, for the first few months to avoid uneven shading.
  • Do not place hot objects directly onto the furniture; always use heat protective coverings, mats and coasters.
  • Any liquid or food spillages should be cleaned immediately with a dry cloth using a blotting action.
  • When writing, always use a protective mat to avoid marking the surface or scratching the glass.
  • Ensure that drawers and shelves are not overloaded.
  • Avoid placing furniture too close to any heat sources, radiators or air conditioning units, as extreme temperature and humidity can naturally cause wood to move, warp and loosen joints.
  • Small tables should not be used for sitting or standing on.
  • Never drag furniture, always lift it. Pushing or pulling furniture will weaken the leg joints.
  • Where wall or unit fixings are supplied, it is essential that these are used to give additional stability in order to avoid the furniture toppling over and the risk of injury.
  • Lamps and ornaments should be moved regularly on new furniture to ensure the mellowing process is even on the whole piece.

Marble Furniture Care

Marble is a natural product varying in colour, texture and veining, commonly used on a variety of furniture pieces, such as coffee table tops, dining table tops, sideboard tops and writing surfaces.

Marble is a porous material, and relatively delicate; therefore it should be handled very carefully.

  • For daily cleaning, we recommend the use of a damp cloth. blot spills up immediately and wipe with a damp cloth to avoid marks on the surface, followed by a dry cloth.
  • Never use abrasive cleaners, solvents, detergents, aerosol, silicon waxes or polishes. These may react with the lacquer.
  • Never use vinegar, lemon juice or cleaners containing acids.
  • To prevent ring marks, place castors or trivets under glasses or serving dishes. Use mats or runners under hard objects that may scratch the surface. Pieces of felt should be placed under ornaments and vases.

Lighting/Electrical Items

We strongly recommend that all electrical installations are carried out by a qualified electrician.