Dust & Clean Gently: Dust wood surfaces daily/ weekly with a soft microfiber or cotton cloth. For deeper cleaning, spray a gentle wood cleaner or a mild soap solution onto a cloth (never directly onto the wood) and wipe surfaces. Blot spills immediately and wipe dry to prevent water rings or stains.
Polish & Condition: Use a high-quality furniture polish or natural wax occasionally to nourish and seal the finish. Apply sparingly in the direction of the grain, then buff with a soft cloth. This helps protect the wood from drying out and maintains its lustre over time.
Avoid Harsh Elements: Keep wood furniture out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources (radiators, vents). Intense UV and heat will fade and crack the finish. Also avoid placing wood near humid exterior walls in monsoon – allow 6–8 inches of air space from damp walls to prevent moisture absorption.
Use Protective Accessories: Always use coasters and placemats to shield wood from hot dishes and wet cups. Attach felt pads under legs to prevent scratches on floors. When moving furniture, lift it rather than drag it to protect the joints and flooring.
Seasonal Care (Humidity): In humid/rainy seasons, keep rooms well-ventilated (open windows or use a dehumidifier) to prevent swelling and mildew. Dust and wipe surfaces with a dry cloth frequently to remove dampness. After the monsoon, apply a fresh coat of furniture wax or oil—this seals the wood and repels moisture.
What to Avoid: Never use strong solvents, bleach or ammonia-based cleaners on wood. Don't let liquid sit on the surface. Avoid abrasive sponges or scouring pads. And remember: don 't place wood furniture in hot kitchens or steamy bathrooms where heat and moisture damage finishes.
Cane Furniture
Stable Environment: Keep cane pieces away from direct sun, drafty air vents or heaters. Cane is a natural woven fiber that thrives in moderate indoor humidity. Too much heat or dryness will make the strands brittle and prone to breakage, while prolonged dampness can cause sagging or mold.
Maintain Moisture: To keep cane flexible, maintain indoor humidity around 40–60%. In dry seasons use a humidifier; in typical conditions lightly mist cane furniture with diluted wood soap (e.g. Murphy's Oil Soap diluted in water) a few times a year, then wipe off excess. You may also apply a thin coat of natural oil (like lemon or mineral oil) on the cane every 6–12 months to nourish the fibers.
Gentle Cleaning: Dust cane regularly with a soft brush or vacuum attachment. For deeper cleaning, wipe with a soft cloth or brush dipped in warm water with mild detergent. Be careful not to soak the cane – rinse any soap residue and let the piece dry fully (preferably in a warm, breezy room) to prevent mildew. If spots of mold appear, lightly clean with a diluted bleach or hydrogen-peroxide solution on a cotton swab, then rinse and dry quickly.
Distribute Weight Evenly: Cane seats are meant for distributed weight. Never kneel, stand, or place heavy objects on a cane surface. Concentrated pressure will break the weave. For added protection, use a chair pad or cushion which spreads weight across the seat. If a cane seat does sag slightly, it can often be tightened by gently wetting and drying (this should be done carefully or by a professional).
Avoid Water Damage: Do not let cane furniture sit in water or very damp areas. In monsoon or if cane gets wet, dry it promptly in warm air. Keep cane items indoors or under cover during heavy rains to prevent swelling or mildew. Good air circulation around cane pieces is essential; avoid pushing them tightly against outside walls or storing in dark, damp cellars.
What to Avoid:Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and excessive water. Don't use silicone sprays or varnish on cane (it needs to “breathe”). And like wood furniture, always lift cane items when moving them rather than dragging.
Upholstery & Fabric Seating
Regular Cleaning: Vacuum fabric surfaces weekly using a soft-brush upholstery attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair. A quick lint-roller pass will help keep fabrics looking fresh. Clean under removable cushions and in crevices too.
Immediate Spill Care: Treat spills and stains as soon as they happen. Blot (don't rub) with a clean white cloth or paper towel to absorb liquid. For most fabrics, gently dab the spot with a slightly damp cloth and mild dish soap solution, then blot dry. Always test cleaners on an inconspicuous area first. For solvent-safe textiles (like rayon or wool), use a recommended dry-clean solvent instead of water. After cleaning, allow the fabric to air-dry completely; avoid reusing pillows/covers until fully dry.
Upholstery Care: Rotate and flip loose seat cushions every month to distribute wear evenly. Vacuum or brush fabric to remove embedded dust. If covers are removable, launder or dry-clean them per the tag instructions. Plan a professional steam or deep clean about once a year (or twice for very heavy use) to refresh the fabric.
Sun & Heat Protection: Position sofas and chairs away from direct sunlight. UV rays will fade fabrics and can weaken fibers over time. Likewise, keep upholstered pieces clear of heat vents or radiators. If you must place furniture near a window, consider UV-blocking window treatments or rotate the piece occasionally to even out any fading.
Everyday Precautions: Use coasters or trays when eating on upholstered furniture. Placing a washable throw or slipcover can guard against spills and pet accidents. Teach guests (and children) to avoid eating on sofas, or set plates on a tray. Keep sharp objects (pens, keys, hardware) away from fabric to prevent snags. For leather or suede upholstery, follow specific conditioner routines and avoid water altogether.
Seasonal Tips: In humid weather, run a dehumidifier or ensure air conditioning is used so fabrics stay dry (mold can form in damp, stagnant air). After the monsoon, make sure any damp-cleaned fabrics are fully dried (open windows or use fans). In winter dryness, a bit of indoor humidity (around 40%) will help prevent static cling and keep fibers from becoming brittle.
What to Avoid: Never drag upholstered furniture across floors. Don't soak fabric with cleaner – more damage comes from over wetting than gentle scrubbing. Avoid bleach or strong solvents unless the fabric explicitly permits it. And always check the manufacturer's care tag/code before applying any cleaning solution (when in doubt, consult a professional cleaner).