2. Furniture Care Basics
Keep furniture out of direct sunlight.
Avoid placing furniture in front of or under
windows.
Place furniture away from heating and air
conditioning vents.
Blot up spills immediately.
Use coasters, placemats and tablecloths to
protect furniture during use.
Lift and place items instead of sliding across
furniture surfaces.
Rotate accessories on your furniture
periodically.
Avoid prolonged use of plastic and rubber items
on your furniture.
Dust your furniture regularly and polish every 4-
6 months.
3. Clean painted furniture with a mild soap-and-water solution.
Start at the bottom of the chair or bookcase and wash all
surfaces. Remove cushions from the chairs and launder, if the
covers are washable. Use fiber cloths to dry and polish the
wood as you work. Replace the cushions.
4. Vacuum wicker furniture thoroughly to remove dirt and dust.
Vacuum cushions, spot-clean or launder if washable and set
aside. Using a soft-bristled brush, clean the wicker with a
solution of mild soap and warm water. Dry off excess water
and allow to air-dry completely before replacing cushions.
5. Clean wood with a mild soap designed for wood. Do not soak
the wood. Wring the cloth out well, and wipe the furniture
surfaces. Polish with a soft cloth and allow to dry. Apply a
fresh coat of wax and polish.
6. Remove cushions and arm covers from upholstered furniture and
thoroughly vacuum, paying special attention to the cushion
platform and the crevices. Vacuum the back and the area where
the skirt meets the upholstery. Spot-clean spots or stains using
upholstery cleaner and a sponge. Clean from the outside of the
spot to the center. Do not soak the furniture. Allow to dry and
vacuum again. Apply stain repellent according to directions on the
container. Allow to dry. Spray lightly with a fabric freshener.
7. To clean leather furniture, remove loose cushions and
vacuum. Use the dust-brush attachment for the crevices and
underside. Wipe the leather with a cloth dampened with
water. Clean any stains with a cleaner designated for leather.
Apply a leather conditioner to soften and protect.
8. TIPS
Keep leather furniture away
from direct sunlight and heat.
Position it at least 2 feet away
from windows and floor
heating vents.
Use furniture covers and
throws to protect upholstery
from grease and grime in high-
traffic rooms.
Get advice from an expert on
cleaning and caring for antique
furniture.
