Furniture Materials & Care Guide
Furniture care starts before the first clean. A wood appearance, fabric texture or metal color does not identify the full material specification. The surface finish, upholstery construction and product instructions determine the appropriate method. Use this guide to prepare questions and organize care information; follow the instructions supplied for your exact furniture and finish.
Identify the material and finish
When comparing seating, tables or storage furniture, record the product reference alongside its selected finish. Ask for separate information for the frame, surface, upholstery and moving parts. A description such as wood effect or leather look is not enough to establish composition or cleaning compatibility.
- Surface specification: confirm the material and applied finish for each visible component.
- Upholstery reference: record the exact fabric, leather or other covering reference and its care instructions.
- Use environment: state whether the furniture will be indoors, outdoors or near food service, strong sunlight or frequent spills.
- Care documents: request the relevant cleaning, assembly and maintenance instructions before choosing a routine.
Plan care by component
Wood and veneer
Keep spills from sitting on the surface and follow the specified removal method promptly. Use suitable coasters and protective pads, and lift objects rather than dragging them across the finish. Confirm compatibility before adding polish, oil or a protective treatment: an oiled finish and a coated finish can require different care. Do not attempt sanding or scratch repair without instructions for that exact surface.
Fabric, leather and other upholstery
Check the covering instructions before vacuuming, brushing, wet cleaning or using steam. Some upholstery permits carefully controlled cleaning methods while other materials can be damaged by moisture or brushing. A removable cover does not establish that it is machine washable. Keep care information for the selected covering with the furniture record, and seek product-specific advice for persistent stains or extensive soiling.
Metal, laminate, glass and mixed surfaces
Identify the actual coating or surface before choosing a cleaner. A product suitable for one component may damage an adjacent finish. Use only the method and cleaning product permitted by the furniture instructions, including any stated rinsing or drying steps. Do not assume a household cleaner, abrasive pad or disinfectant is suitable for every surface.
Make maintenance workable for the space
For a home, keep the product reference and care document together. For a commercial project, create an item-by-item care register and give the relevant instructions to housekeeping or facilities staff. Record approved methods, inspection tasks and who to contact when damage appears. Review the care requirements alongside how the space is actually used.
Browse residential furniture and commercial furniture, or include your maintenance needs in a furniture enquiry. Share the intended setting, finish references and cleaning requirements so they can be considered during product review. Explore more planning guidance in Furniture Resources.