Furniture Care Tips

furniture care guide

Helpful tips and expert advice to keep your furniture looking beautiful for years to come.

Your home is made for living, and your furniture is designed to last. With a little care and attention, you can preserve the beauty, comfort, and craftsmanship of every piece you love. Below are our best tips for cleaning, maintenance, and long-term care for your upholstery, wood, rugs, and décor.

If you ever have questions about specific materials or finishes, our team is always happy to help—just reach out to info@chapinfurniture.com.

UPHOLSTERY CARE

Everyday Care

  • Rotate cushions and toss pillows regularly to maintain shape and even wear.
  • Keep upholstery away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or excess moisture to prevent fading and damage.
  • Vacuum periodically using a brushless attachment to remove dust and debris.
  • Pilling is natural and can be gently removed with a fabric shaver.
  • For a deep clean, professional upholstery cleaning is always recommended.

Cleaning Codes

Always check your furniture’s manufacturer tag to find its Fabric Cleaning Code, which will guide your cleaning method:

  • W: Spot clean with water-based cleaners or foam.
  • S: Use solvent-based cleaners only—never water.
  • WS: Use either water-based or solvent-based cleaners.
  • X: Vacuum only; do not use water or cleaners.

Always pre-test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area for colorfastness. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, which can damage fibers.

Spot Cleaning Tips

  • Blot (don’t rub!) spills immediately with a clean, undyed cloth.
  • Work from the outside of the stain toward the center to prevent rings.
  • Avoid over-saturating fabrics, and allow upholstery to air dry completely.

Common Stain Tips

  • Butter & Oily Stains: Use a dry-cleaning solvent first, then blot with a mild detergent and warm water mixture.
  • Cheese or Grease: Blot with mild detergent and warm water; follow with a diluted ammonia solution, then rinse with water.
  • Ink: Gently blot with hairspray, rubbing alcohol, or acetone using a white cloth—never rub.
  • Coffee: Blot with mild detergent and warm water, then a solution of vinegar and water.

Regular maintenance—like vacuuming every two months—helps extend your furniture’s life and keeps it looking its best.

LEATHER & PERFORMANCE FABRICS

Leather

  • Dust regularly and wipe with a soft, undyed cloth.
  • Add moisture using a cloth dampened with distilled water.
  • For deeper care, use a wax-free leather cleaner and conditioner.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives, and cleaners containing ammonia or silicone.
  • Do not use leather cleaners on suede or nubuck.

Performance & CryptonÂź Fabrics

  • Clean with mild soap and water; blot gently.
  • For tough stains, lightly brush and rinse thoroughly.
  • Never use bleach unless specifically approved for your fabric.

Faux Leather

  • Wipe clean with mild soap and water, then dry immediately.
  • Avoid leather cleaners and solvents.

WOOD & WICKER

General Care

  • Clean with a soft, undyed cloth using mild soap and water; dry immediately.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or products with ammonia or silicone.
  • Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth or non-wax polish.
  • Protect surfaces from heat, moisture, and scratches with coasters, trivets, and felt pads.
  • Lift furniture when moving—never drag it.
  • Avoid direct sunlight or extreme humidity to prevent warping or cracking.

Specialty Wood & Finishes

  • Laminate: Wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately.
  • Reclaimed or Antique Wood: Dust gently and apply furniture wax occasionally, following the grain.
  • Hand-Painted Finishes: Dust with a soft cloth and occasionally apply natural beeswax.
  • Rattan & Wicker: Wipe with a damp cloth or vacuum using an upholstery attachment. Avoid standing or leaning on woven seats.

METAL, STONE & TEAK

Metal

  • Dust with a dry cloth; avoid excess moisture.
  • Never use abrasives or ammonia-based cleaners.
  • Protect from scratches with felt pads and coasters.

Stone & Concrete

  • Clean with mild soap and water, using a soft cloth.
  • Avoid cleaners with acid, bleach, or vinegar.
  • Always use coasters and trivets to prevent marks.

Teak

  • Dust with a soft cloth.
  • Natural teak will age into a silvery-grey patina outdoors; use furniture covers when not in use.
  • Clean using warm water and mild dish soap with a soft brush.
  • Avoid pressure washing and harsh chemicals.

RUGS

General Care

  • Rotate every few months to prevent uneven wear.
  • Use rug pads to protect both floors and rugs.
  • Vacuum in one direction using a brushless attachment.
  • Blot spills immediately with a clean, white cloth—never rub.
  • Professional cleaning is recommended for best results.

Material-Specific Tips

  • Wool: Expect light shedding initially; vacuum regularly.
  • Natural Fiber: Vacuum on low setting from multiple directions.
  • Performance: Clean with mild detergent and water; air dry. Store indoors during harsh weather.
  • Viscose: Use a carpet sweeper and avoid moisture. Blot gently with mild cleanser and water for stains.
  • Hides: Shake out debris regularly and vacuum using suction only—no bristles.

DÉCOR & BEDDING

Pillows, Covers & Throws

  • Check care labels for specific instructions.
  • Spot clean using mild detergent and an undyed cloth.
  • For deeper cleaning, professional services are best.

Lighting, Mirrors & Accessories

  • Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth or feather duster.
  • Clean glass with glass cleaner and a soft cloth.
  • Avoid placing watertight vessels directly on wood or porous surfaces.

MATTRESSES & BOX SPRINGS

  • Spot clean with mild soap and water as needed.
  • Use a mattress protector for extra defense against moisture and dirt.
  • Rotate or flip your mattress (if double-sided) every six months.
  • Vacuum annually to extend freshness and longevity.

Questions?

We’re always here to help with care tips or specific cleaning recommendations for your pieces.

📧 info@chapinfurniture.com