Furniture Care - Wood, Leather & Fabric Cleaning Guide

Wood Furniture Care

Wood needs gentle cleaning and protection from moisture and heat.

Dust regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfibre duster to remove dust before it scratches.
Clean with a barely-damp cloth: Wipe with a cloth dampened in water (or a wood-safe cleaner), then dry immediately. Never leave wood wet.
Use coasters and mats: Water rings and heat marks come from cups and hot dishes. Protect the surface.
Condition occasionally: A wood polish or conditioner every few months keeps the finish hydrated. Use sparingly and wipe off excess.
Avoid direct sunlight: Sun fades and dries wood. Use curtains or reposition furniture.

Water ring fix: For a light water mark, gently rub with a soft cloth and a tiny amount of toothpaste or a mild abrasive-free wood polish, working with the grain.

Leather Furniture Care

Action	How Often
Vacuum / dust crevices and seams	Weekly
Wipe with a barely-damp soft cloth	Monthly
Condition with leather conditioner	Every 6–12 months
Keep out of direct sunlight	Always

Leather is durable but dries out and cracks without care. Conditioner keeps it supple. Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth — never rub, and avoid soaking leather.

Fabric & Upholstery Care

Vacuum regularly: Weekly vacuuming removes dust, crumbs, and pet hair before they settle deep.
Flip and rotate cushions: This prevents uneven wear and keeps them looking even.
Blot spills fast: Use a clean cloth and blot; work from the outside in. Don't rub.
Check the tag: Upholstery codes (W, S, WS, X) tell you the right cleaning method. "W" = water-based, "S" = solvent-only, "WS" = either, "X" = professional/vacuum only.

Pet hair tip: A damp rubber glove or a squeegee lifts pet hair off fabric furniture surprisingly well.

General Furniture Protection

Use furniture pads: Felt pads under legs prevent scratches on floors.
Keep heavy items balanced: Don't overload drawers or shelves.
Maintain hardware: Tighten loose handles and screws periodically.
Control humidity: Very dry air can crack wood and leather; very damp air can cause mold.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using harsh or abrasive cleaners: They strip finishes and scratch surfaces.
Wet-cleaning wood and leather: Excess water causes warping, water marks, and cracking.
Ignoring spills: The longer a spill sits, the harder it is to remove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vinegar to clean wood?

Vinegar is acidic and can strip wood finishes. For most finished wood, a barely-damp cloth with plain water or a wood-safe cleaner is safer. Test in an inconspicuous spot before using anything.

How do I remove a dent in wood?

For a light dent in unfinished or lightly finished wood, place a damp cloth over it and press with a warm iron briefly — the steam can swell the wood fibers. Test carefully and don't overheat.

How do I keep fabric furniture looking new?

Vacuum weekly, flip cushions, blot spills immediately, and use throw blankets on high-traffic spots. Deep-clean upholstery according to its care tag when needed.

Furniture Care Guide