TEAKMARSHLY · AMERICAN HERITAGE
Furniture Care & Maintenance
Preserving Beauty. Caring for Every Detail.
Beautiful spaces deserve thoughtful care.
At teakmarshly, we believe furniture is an important part of everyday living. From welcoming living room pieces to practical storage and dining furniture, proper cleaning and maintenance can help preserve the appearance, comfort, and usability of your home furnishings. This guide shares general care recommendations to help you maintain your furniture and create a home that continues to feel warm and inviting.
01
GENTLE CLEANING
02
MATERIAL CARE
03
DAILY PROTECTION
04
LONG-TERM CARE
01. General Furniture Care Principles
Regardless of furniture type, a few simple habits can help maintain the condition of your home furnishings.
- Dust furniture regularly with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth.
- Clean spills promptly using an appropriate cleaning method for the material.
- Avoid excessive moisture, harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and rough scrubbing tools.
- Use protective mats, coasters, or pads where appropriate to reduce scratches, stains, and surface marks.
- Keep furniture away from excessive heat, prolonged direct sunlight, and sources of moisture whenever possible.
- Follow the product-specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
A Simple Rule to Remember
When you are unsure whether a cleaning product or method is suitable, test it first on a small, inconspicuous area. Always follow the furniture manufacturer's instructions.
02. Wood & Wood-Finish Furniture
Wood furniture brings warmth, natural character, and timeless appeal to interior spaces. Appropriate cleaning and environmental care can help maintain its finish and appearance.
Cleaning Recommendations
- Remove dust using a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- For suitable sealed finishes, use a slightly damp cloth when necessary.
- Dry the surface promptly with a clean cloth.
- Use only wood cleaners or care products compatible with the specific finish.
Protection Recommendations
- Use coasters beneath beverages and protective mats beneath hot objects.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
- Maintain a reasonably stable indoor environment.
- Avoid placing wet objects directly on wood surfaces.
Different wood species, veneers, laminates, stains, and protective coatings may require different care methods. Do not apply oils, waxes, polishes, or solvents unless the manufacturer confirms they are suitable for the finish.
03. Upholstered Furniture & Fabric
Upholstered furniture adds softness and comfort to living spaces. Regular light maintenance can help keep fabric surfaces looking neat and inviting.
Routine Cleaning
- Vacuum upholstery periodically using a suitable soft-brush attachment.
- Remove loose dust, crumbs, and debris from seams and crevices.
- Blot liquid spills gently with a clean, absorbent cloth.
- Avoid rubbing stains, as this may push them deeper into the fabric.
Fabric Protection
- Rotate removable cushions periodically when the product design allows.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight to reduce the risk of fading.
- Keep sharp objects away from upholstery surfaces.
- Use fabric protection products only when approved for the upholstery material.
Cleaning requirements differ among cotton, linen, polyester, velvet, microfiber, leather, and blended fabrics. Always check the product care label before using water, detergent, steam, or professional cleaning products.
04. Leather & Leather-Look Furniture
Leather and leather-look surfaces require care appropriate to their specific material and finish.
- Remove dust using a soft, dry cloth.
- Wipe suitable surfaces gently with a clean cloth according to manufacturer instructions.
- Avoid alcohol-based cleaners, bleach, abrasive products, and unapproved household chemicals.
- Keep furniture away from direct heat sources and prolonged sunlight.
- Use leather conditioners only on genuine leather surfaces when recommended by the manufacturer.
Synthetic leather, bonded leather, and genuine leather have different material properties. Products designed for one surface may damage another, so always verify compatibility before cleaning or conditioning.
05. Metal Furniture & Hardware
Metal furniture frames, handles, legs, fittings, and decorative hardware can benefit from regular dust removal and gentle cleaning.
- Wipe surfaces with a soft, clean cloth to remove dust.
- Use a lightly damp cloth only when suitable for the metal finish.
- Dry cleaned areas thoroughly to help prevent moisture-related damage.
- Avoid steel wool, abrasive pads, and harsh chemical cleaners.
- Check screws, connectors, and other accessible hardware periodically for looseness.
Painted metal, stainless steel, chrome, brass finishes, and powder-coated surfaces may require different cleaning products. Always follow the manufacturer's care guidance.
06. Glass & Mirror Surfaces
Glass tabletops, display cabinets, mirrors, and decorative glass elements can be maintained with gentle and appropriate cleaning methods.
- Use a clean, soft microfiber cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Use a glass cleaner suitable for the specific surface when permitted by the manufacturer.
- Avoid spraying liquid directly onto joints, edges, frames, or hardware.
- Do not use abrasive materials that may scratch the surface.
- Inspect glass surfaces for cracks, chips, or damage before continued use.
If glass is cracked, chipped, or structurally damaged, stop using the affected furniture and keep people away from the damaged area until it can be safely assessed.
07. Kitchen & Dining Furniture
Kitchen islands, dining tables, dining chairs, pantry cabinets, and utility furniture are often exposed to food, liquids, heat, and everyday household activity.
- Clean food spills promptly to help prevent stains and residue buildup.
- Use suitable protective mats beneath hot cookware and serving dishes.
- Keep countertops and furniture surfaces dry after cleaning.
- Avoid cutting directly on furniture surfaces unless they are specifically designed for food preparation.
- Do not leave standing water near joints, seams, or exposed edges.
- For stainless steel surfaces, use cleaning products suitable for stainless steel and wipe in the direction of the grain where applicable.
Not every furniture surface is suitable for direct food preparation. Always refer to the individual product specifications before using a surface for that purpose.
08. Outdoor Furniture & Garden Storage
Outdoor furniture and garden storage products may be exposed to sunlight, rain, humidity, temperature changes, and airborne debris.
- Remove dirt and debris regularly using cleaning methods appropriate for the product material.
- Allow surfaces to dry thoroughly after cleaning or exposure to moisture.
- Use protective covers when appropriate and compatible with the product.
- Store removable cushions and accessories in a dry location when not in use.
- Inspect outdoor furniture periodically for corrosion, loose fittings, or weather-related wear.
- Follow the product's stated outdoor-use and weather-resistance specifications.
Outdoor suitability varies by product. Do not assume that a furniture item or storage cabinet is waterproof, weatherproof, or suitable for year-round outdoor exposure unless its product description specifically states so.
09. Furniture Placement & Environmental Care
Where furniture is placed can influence its appearance and long-term condition. A suitable indoor environment can help reduce unnecessary wear.
Sunlight
Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which may cause certain finishes and fabrics to fade or change color.
Humidity
Avoid excessive humidity and standing moisture, especially around wood, joints, and upholstered surfaces.
Heat
Keep furniture at a reasonable distance from radiators, heaters, fireplaces, and other intense heat sources.
Floor Protection
Consider suitable floor protectors beneath furniture legs to reduce scratches and marks on flooring.
10. Furniture Safety & Regular Inspection
Cleaning and maintenance also include checking that furniture remains stable and safe for its intended use.
- Check accessible screws, bolts, and connectors periodically and tighten them according to the assembly instructions when necessary.
- Use anti-tip restraints for applicable tall furniture according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Avoid exceeding the stated weight capacity of shelves, drawers, chairs, tables, and storage units.
- Do not stand, climb, or sit on furniture unless it is specifically designed for that purpose.
- Inspect moving parts, hinges, drawer slides, and folding mechanisms for signs of wear or damage.
- Stop using furniture that appears unstable, structurally damaged, or unsafe.
For assembly, repairs, and maintenance, follow the original product instructions. Do not modify structural components or replace hardware with unsuitable alternatives.
11. What to Avoid When Cleaning Furniture
Some cleaning habits can unintentionally damage furniture surfaces, finishes, or structural components. Unless specifically approved by the manufacturer, avoid the following:
- Bleach, strong solvents, and aggressive chemical cleaners.
- Abrasive sponges, steel wool, and rough scrubbing brushes.
- Excessive water or soaking of wood and upholstered furniture.
- Steam cleaning on materials that are not approved for steam treatment.
- Unapproved polishes, waxes, oils, or protective coatings.
- Placing very hot objects directly on unprotected surfaces.
- Using incompatible cleaning products on specialty finishes.
12. Seasonal Furniture Maintenance
A simple seasonal maintenance routine can help you identify small issues before they become more difficult to address.
Spring & Summer
Dust furniture thoroughly, check for sunlight exposure, clean suitable outdoor furniture, and inspect garden storage and furniture fittings.
Fall & Winter
Check furniture placement near heating equipment, maintain a reasonably stable indoor environment, and inspect upholstery and wood surfaces for changes caused by seasonal conditions.
The appropriate maintenance frequency depends on the furniture material, location, frequency of use, and manufacturer recommendations.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my furniture?
Regular dusting is recommended. More thorough cleaning should be performed as needed, depending on the material, usage, and manufacturer care instructions.
Can I use household cleaning products on all furniture?
No. Cleaning products suitable for one material may damage another. Always verify product compatibility and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
How should I handle a liquid spill?
Blot the spill promptly with a clean, absorbent cloth without rubbing. Then follow the cleaning instructions for the specific surface or fabric.
Can I use furniture polish on every wood surface?
No. Some finishes may be affected by certain oils, waxes, or polishes. Check the product care instructions before applying any treatment.
What should I do if my furniture becomes damaged?
Stop using the affected item if its safety or stability may be compromised. Review the product instructions and contact our customer service team if the damage concerns a recent order.
Where can I find product-specific care instructions?
Please refer to the relevant product description, care label, or assembly documentation. You may also contact us for assistance with available product information.
THE TEAKMARSHLY PHILOSOPHY
A little care makes room for lasting comfort.
We believe that thoughtful maintenance is part of creating a home you love. By caring for each material appropriately and paying attention to everyday details, you can help preserve the beauty and function of your furniture.
Need Furniture Care Assistance?
If you have questions about product materials, cleaning recommendations, assembly instructions, or furniture maintenance, please contact our customer service team. We will be happy to assist with the product information available to us.
TEAKMARSHLY · CUSTOMER CARE
Customer Service Email
Telephone
Business Contact
Sarah Allen
Business Address
246 Old Shack Island Rd
Hendersonville, TN 37075
United States
Customer Service Hours
Monday – Friday
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
THE ART OF THOUGHTFUL LIVING
teakmarshly
Timeless Style · Thoughtful Service · Lasting Comfort