The Best Furniture Fabrics For Families With Kids & Pets
February 7, 2023
Nothing lasts forever. Spills, scuffs, scratches, and general wear and tear happen over time.
However, by providing regular care and maintenance to your high-quality living room furniture, your favourite pieces can last generations. To get the most out of your modern, European furniture, discover our tips and tricks below:
Maintaining NANO Technology Fabric
As NANO fabrics are designed to last with water, stain, and scratch resistance, NANO is proven to require very minimal care.
For regular maintenance, vacuuming is sufficient. However, should a spill occur, simply use a damp cloth and wipe the fabric softly.
Should you have any issues with NANO fabric, the team at Fouka Furniture would be happy to advise.
Maintaining Fabric Furniture
Spot clean only with upholstery cleaner. Do not saturate. Clean spots or stains from the outside to the middle. When cleaning a spill, blot immediately to remove the spill.
Frequent vacuuming is suggested for long-term value.
Cleaning Leather Furniture
All leather colours can change over time through exposure to oils, sun or moisture. Therefore, keep leathers away from direct sunlight, heat, and water.
If spills occur on your leather furniture, attend to them quickly, blotting the stain rather than rubbing.
Not all leather is the same. Be sure to read your upholstery tags to determine what kind of leather you have and any cleaning solutions or methods to avoid.
“To find out what kind of leather upholstery you have, and the recommended care, start by checking the label or the written materials that came with the piece, or look up the item on the retailer’s or manufacturer’s website.” – Julie Sheer, Houzz Contributor for Forbes
Maintaining Metal Furniture
Be sure to wash coated metal surfaces with a soft cloth. Feel free to add some detergent and warm water to wipe the surface. Wipe dry with a clean, soft cloth.
If you need to remove scuff marks, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In most cases, you should be able to apply a pre-softened automotive paste wax to restore the sheen to the metal.
“Abrasive scrubbers or cleaners should not be used as they can scratch the finish, potentially exposing the metal to rust-inducing moisture.” – Janet Hall, Gardenista
Cleaning Stone Furniture
Wash with a soft cloth and a mixture of mild detergent and warm water. Rinse with warm water and wipe dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Should you have any spills, clean them up immediately. The longer a spill remains, the more difficult it will be to remove.
Do not use abrasive, acid, alcohol-based, or solvent-based cleaners.
Cleaning Wooden Furniture
To clean, first wipe the surface with a dry cloth, alongside the grain. If the wood is very dirty, you can add a slight amount of soap and water.
“With regular care and attention, your wooden furniture can avoid the need for repairs and look its best for years of enjoyment.” – Furniture Medic
Do not apply furniture polish directly to the wooden surface. Instead, apply polish to a slightly damp cloth and rub in the direction of the grain.
“Our furry friends can accidentally scratch and damage furniture. To prevent pet damage, protect wooden surfaces with a natural fiber table cloth, chair cover or protective pad.” – Furniture Medic
Protecting Glass Furniture
Wipe glass furniture with a mild soap or detergent and lukewarm water. Use a clean soft cloth, applying only light pressure. Rinse with clean water and dry by blotting with a damp cloth.
Do not use window cleaning sprays, acetone, or lacquer thinner on glass.
“For a shiny streak-free surface use a glass cleaner such as ‘Mr. Muscle Window & Glass Cleaner’ and a micro-fibre or cotton cloth.” – The Contract Chair
Cleaning Acrylic Furniture
Rinse acrylic surfaces with a clean damp cloth to remove any particles of dust. Sponge the plastic gently with warm water and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. After cleaning, buff with soft flannel.
Do not use benzene, acetone, denatured alcohol, or gasoline.
“A damp washcloth and mild dish soap are usually all you need to clean your furniture. After cleaning, rinse with a soap-free, damp cloth; then dry the surface with a third washcloth.” – Furniture Medic
General Care Tips For Maintaining Furniture
Clean Frequently
Vacuum and dust often, including in the furniture seams.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Position your furniture away from windows to prevent fading.
Attend To Spills
If spills do occur, attend to them quickly.
Be Aware of Sharp Objects
Take extra care with sharp items and animal claws to prevent punctures and rips.
Use The Right Products
Never use harsh cleaners or chemicals on your furniture.
Use Coasters
Always use coasters with felt or cork bottoms to reduce unsightly water rings.
These care instructions are for guidance only and do not represent a guarantee.
Shop Fouka Furniture
With hundreds of high-quality materials available in different colours, textures and styles we help you find and create furniture pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. Visit our Design Centre to explore your options.
