SALES & ADVICE 01579 343078

SALES & ADVICE 01579 343078

Upholstery Care Guides

Now you have purchased your ideal furniture, we have assembled some helpful hints and tips on how to care for it. This should also be read in conjunction with any care information which comes with the product.

Quality furniture should last for years and any amount of time spent caring for it will undoubtedly extend its life span.

Fabric Care

  • Plumping up cushions on a regular basis will help prevent creasing and retain the correct shape and overall appearance, as will turning the cushions at least once a week.
  • Modern fillings for cushions are much softer and more luxurious than traditional fillings and you may find some creasing and compression will occur during its life. This is quite common and should not give you cause for concern, as the design is a compromise between comfort and looks.
  • Feather or fibre filled cushions should be shaken and plumped up daily to revitalise the compressed interiors.
  • Sitting on the edges of cushions or the arms may cause permanent wear
  • and distortion to the fillings and fabric. Do not allow your children to use your upholstery as a means of demonstrating their gymnastic abilities.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and care instructions, and leave major cleaning to a recognised cleaning specialist.
  • We would not recommend any wet cleaning with soaps or detergents. This may cause the colours to bleed and stain the fabric; also it may damage the interior of the furniture. Under no circumstances should you apply excessive pressure or rubbing to a spillage, this may result in permanent damage to the fabric. Blot up as much of the spillage, using a clean cloth, towel or kitchen paper; do not use a rubbing action as this could cause further damage. Blot up any excess using a damp cloth (not wet) with warm water.
  • Lightly vacuum or brush frequently to avoid build-up of dust and dirt, taking care with fringes and braiding. Failure to do so will cause the colour to become dull and increase the wear of the fabric.
  • Armcaps prevent excessive wear and soiling on exposed arm sections.
  • Pile fabrics such as chenille and dralon are prone to a certain amount of ‘pile pressure’ and regular brushing will help to maintain the surface appearance. Shading may occur on more regularly used areas. This is due to the pile in the fabric moving in different directions. This is not a manufacturing fault, but the nature of the fabric.
  • Sunlight on upholstery will result in fading of the fabric. Position the furniture away from direct sunlight and draw blinds and curtains where possible. Avoid placing upholstered furniture too close to open fires and radiators to prevent the fabric drying out.
  • Do not leave newspapers on your upholstery as the ink can stain.
  • Sharp objects, jewellery and pets can cause damage to upholstery by snagging the fabric and fibres.
  • Particularly when selecting a light colour fabric, consideration should be given to the possibility of dye transfer from various clothing fabrics.
  • Recliner mechanisms should be operated with care and children should abstain from playing on them. Do not use shoes when operating kickboards as this could result in additional damage.
  • When purchasing any item of furniture, consideration should be given with regard to room sizes and access to the specific area within the property.

Leather Buying and Care Guide

Here is a brief overview of some of the different leathers and their characteristics that are on sale today.

Most Common Types of Leather…

Corrected Grain

Corrected grain is the most common used in today’s leather upholstery. The hide is buffed to reduce or remove any natural imperfections and colour is applied to the surface. This is the most durable leather being easy to care for and making it an ideal purchase for people with young families.

Semi-Aniline Leather

Semi-aniline leather has been dyed through, often with more than one colour, enhancing the natural shade variations. The leather is a lot softer than corrected grain giving a very luxurious feel.

Aniline Leather

Aniline leather has minimal or no coating applied, leaving the surface in a more natural condition. It is very soft to touch and can be the most expensive, as it typifies the natural uniqueness that leather can offer.

Leather Care

  • Leather is a natural product and has its own characteristics, style and durability. No two hides are the same and bear the marks of their origin. These are features which enhance the appeal and character of the furniture. Markings may include scars, veining, growth lines, insect bites; these are not faults, but features. 
  • Careful vacuuming with a soft brush will keep the pores free of dust and grime particles. An occasional wipe over with a slightly damp, clean cloth is also beneficial. Do not use detergent, spirit cleaners or furniture polish on your leather furniture.
  • Do not allow body oils, perspiration or hair products to settle into the grain of the leather, as these will gradually break down the finish.
  • Medication. Particular care should be taken if taking certain medications. Residues can be excreted in perspiration and possibly cause irreversible damage to the surface of the leather. 
  • Under no circumstance attempt to remove any marks or stains by rubbing the leather, as this can remove the surface colour. Always consult a leather cleaning specialist.
  • Never use saddle soap, wax or spray polish which may cause irreversible damage.
  • After cleaning, a neutral leather cream may be used to restore the original sheen, such as Guardsman Leather Products. 
  • Too frequent or over-enthusiastic cleaning or application of leather cream may wear away the upper, darker coat of antique leather to reveal more of the lighter base coat.
  • Avoid sharp objects such as belts, buckles, studs and zips scratching the surface of the leather. Protect leather from direct sunlight and refrain from drying out the leather by keeping it away from radiators and open fires if possible.
  • Leather will stretch and show natural creases with use. Aniline and semi aniline leathers will absorb liquids, natural oils and mark more easily, compared to corrected grain.