Quality furniture is an investment—not just in dollars, but in the comfort and style of your home. With simple, consistent care, you can preserve both the look and structural integrity of your pieces for years to come. Here’s Oakly’s guide to routine maintenance that keeps your furniture looking and feeling its best.
1. Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine
Dust Weekly: Use a soft, lint‑free cloth or a microfiber duster to remove loose dirt and dust. For intricate wood grain or metal detailing, a soft‑bristled brush or vacuum attachment can get into crevices without scratching.
Wipe Spills Immediately: Liquids can stain or warp surfaces. Blot—don’t rub—with a clean cloth, then follow up with the appropriate cleaner for the material (see below).
Vacuum Upholstery: Every month, vacuum fabric and velvet upholstery with a brush attachment. This prevents dust and debris from settling deep into fibers.
2. Protect Wood Surfaces
Use Coasters & Placemats: Heat, moisture, and sharp objects are wood’s worst enemies. Always place hot mugs, wine glasses, and serving dishes on coasters or insulated mats.
Apply Furniture Wax or Polish: Every 3–6 months, treat solid‑wood pieces with a high‑quality paste wax or polish. This replenishes natural oils, enhances shine, and adds a protective barrier.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays fade wood finishes over time. Position furniture away from windows, or use UV‑blocking window film or curtains to shield surfaces.
3. Care for Upholstered Pieces
Rotate Cushions & Pillows: Fluff and swap seat cushions every week to distribute wear evenly and prevent permanent indentations.
Spot‑Clean Stains Quickly: Check your furniture’s care label for fabric type. Use a gentle upholstery cleaner or a DIY mix of mild soap and water. Test in an inconspicuous spot first to ensure no discoloration.
Professional Deep Cleaning: Once a year (or as needed), consider hiring a professional upholstery cleaner to remove deeply embedded dirt and allergens.
4. Condition Leather Regularly
Dust and Wipe: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove surface dust. For deeper cleaning, a damp cloth with distilled water works—avoid harsh cleaners.
Leather Conditioner: Every 6–12 months, apply a pH‑balanced leather conditioner to prevent cracking and keep the hide supple. Follow product instructions and buff gently after application.
Avoid Heat Sources: Keep leather sofas and chairs away from radiators or direct sun, which can dry out and fade the material.
5. Tighten Hardware & Check Joints
Inspect Quarterly: Examine screws, bolts, and joints on tables, chairs, and cabinets. Tighten any loose hardware with the appropriate screwdriver or allen key.
Lubricate Moving Parts: For drawers, hinges, or sliding doors, apply a small amount of silicone‑based lubricant to keep motion smooth and prevent squeaks.
6. Pamper Metal and Glass
Polish Metal Frames: Wipe metal legs and accents with a damp cloth, then dry immediately to prevent rust. For stainless steel or brass, use a metal‑specific polish once or twice a year.
Clean Glass Tops: Use a streak‑free glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth for crystal‑clear results. Lift and carry glass tops carefully—you’d be surprised how pressure at the corners can cause cracks.
7. Mind the Environment
Control Humidity: Extreme dryness can cause wood to shrink and crack; excess humidity can lead to warping or mold. Aim for indoor humidity levels between 40–60%. A small humidifier or dehumidifier can help.
Seasonal Swaps: If you live in a climate with harsh winters or humid summers, rotate or cover vulnerable pieces (like wicker or lightweight woods) to protect them during extreme conditions.
8. Renovate Rather Than Replace
Refinish When Needed: Scratches, dents, or worn finishes don’t always mean “replace.” A professional refinishing can restore solid‑wood furniture at a fraction of the cost of new.
Reupholster: High‑quality frames are worth saving. Swapping out old fabric for a fresh upholstery makes a classic sofa or chair feel brand new.
Final Thoughts
With mindful, consistent care, your Oakly furniture can stay beautiful and functional for decades. From simple dusting and spot‑cleaning to annual professional maintenance, these tips safeguard your investment—and ensure every piece continues to enhance your home.
Ready to add more timeless, quality pieces to your collection? Explore Oakly’s curated furnishings at oakly.store and build a home that stands the test of time.
Caring for Your Furniture: Maintenance Tips That Extend Lifespan
Quality furniture is an investment—not just in dollars, but in the comfort and style of your home. With simple, consistent care, you can preserve both the look and structural integrity of your pieces for years to come. Here’s Oakly’s guide to routine maintenance that keeps your furniture looking and feeling its best.
1. Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine
2. Protect Wood Surfaces
3. Care for Upholstered Pieces
4. Condition Leather Regularly
5. Tighten Hardware & Check Joints
6. Pamper Metal and Glass
7. Mind the Environment
8. Renovate Rather Than Replace
Final Thoughts
With mindful, consistent care, your Oakly furniture can stay beautiful and functional for decades. From simple dusting and spot‑cleaning to annual professional maintenance, these tips safeguard your investment—and ensure every piece continues to enhance your home.
Ready to add more timeless, quality pieces to your collection? Explore Oakly’s curated furnishings at oakly.store and build a home that stands the test of time.