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Buying upholstered furniture


Caring for your upholstery

Proper care and maintenance will prolong the life of your furniture. Look for any available information – it is often hidden and may be a label under the seat cushion, in the seat/back junction, or on the base. Alternatively it may be provided separately as a small pamphlet. If you are unable to find any information, then ask.

white roomIt is recommended that care and maintenance instructions for the furniture selected are obtained from the retailer and should be followed in preference to any other advice. However, here are a few simple instructions:

  • Lightly vacuum upholstery once a week, less frequently for feather filled cushions. Dust removal may be improved by pre-brushing with a soft brush. Accumulated dirt will accelerate wear and dull colours.
  • Regularly turn and interchange the positions of reversible cushions on constantly used upholstery. This will prevent excessive soiling and uneven wear.
  • Zips at the back of cushion covers are there to aid the manufacturing process and do not necessarily mean that the cover is removable for cleaning purposes.
  • Smooth out creases in the cushions to prevent them becoming permanent and causing early wear.
  • Avoid exposing furniture to direct sunlight and/or heat whether direct or indirect for long periods of time as this may result in fading or degradation. Protect the furniture by drawing curtains and blinds wherever possible.
  •  Avoid repetitious wear on small areas of the fabric, such as arms and front edges of cushions.
  •  Avoid snagging the fabric – pets’ claws, jewellery, buckles, zips/studs etc. are all potential hazards.
  • It is difficult to give general instructions on home cleaning since different fabrics require specialist cleaning techniques. Consequently using a professional upholstery cleaner is recommended. The effectiveness of the specialist cleaning will depend upon the degree of soiling so it is advisable to have this done before dirt becomes too deeply embedded in the fabric. We would recommend at least every 12 to 18 months.
  • Leather should be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The use of cleaning solutions or preparations on products for which they were not intended could damage the surface of the leather.
  • The best advice where care instructions for the leather are not available is to wipe the leather with a damp lint free cloth, using a mild soap solution when necessary as a last resort. The affected area should be rubbed gently until the soil is removed; never use detergent and take care not to soak the leather. Alternatively, contact the manufacturer for assistance.
  • Trim loose threads, don’t pull them
  • Don’t put pressure on unsupported panels of upholstery (e.g. outside arms and backs) and don’t sit on the arms.
  • If accidental spillage or damage occurs, take professional advice to ensure it is dealt with properly.
  • Do not wash or dry clean the fabric of your furniture unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically state that this can be done. Do not clean/wash only part of the upholstery where the product is designed to be maintained in this way, owing to possible colour change.
  • Ensure your furniture is professionally cleaned regularly.

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