Simple ways to keep your favorite pieces in tip top shape.

You’ve moved into a new house or just finished redecorating - perhaps you made investments in home décor or inherited gorgeous pieces of vintage furniture. As you settle in and admire your new space, it is important to learn about proper care to enjoy these pieces for a long time and keep them looking as new and beautiful as the day you got them.

Image via Rocabu Designs

The best way to start is to read the item’s care label and follow the detailed instructions on how it should be washed or cleaned. In case it doesn’t come with your piece, here are some specific care tips for commonly used materials found in the home.

Wood

Quality wood furniture is often a treasured heirloom, and with proper care, it can be passed down through generations. Chosen because of functionality and sturdiness, they are well-used and it is thus inevitable that they are prone to scratches during their lifetime. These can be minimized with some simple steps.

Cleaning Instructions:
● Dust regularly to avoid airborne particles from building up into a layer that can scratch the surface.
● If cleaning a particularly dirty spot, use warm water or mild detergent and wipe gently with a damp, soft cloth. Make sure to also wipe the piece dry afterwards to prevent staining.
● Keep older furniture smelling fresh by airing them outdoors or placing a pan of charcoal inside drawers to absorb smells.

Image via Rocabu Designs Home Décor Collections

Purchase the Wood Decorative Tray

Care and maintenance:
● Avoid rings and heat marks on wooden tables by using coasters, trivets, placemats and decorative trays. Consider using a table runner or tablecloth especially if having company or entertaining.
● Do not place valuable furniture in front of uncovered windows as the light and heat can damage and fade the wood.
● Avoid smoking around wood furniture as the material traps the smell and can be hard to air out.

31" Wood Bead Garland by Rocabu Designs

Purchase the 31" Wood Bead Garland

Glass

Glass, with its sleek and clean appearance, is a favorite for minimalist interior design. A well placed mirror automatically opens up a space. A glass table top is one way to add a modern finishing touch to an accent table or bar. While undeniably flexible and sustainable, a glass furniture piece is only beautiful if it is clean, so it goes without saying regular maintenance is needed to keep it free of fingerprints, dust and streaks.

Gray George Vase by Rocabu Designs

 

Cleaning Instructions:
● Clean the glass surface regularly. Use over the counter glass cleaners, or opt for a homemade mix of vinegar and water.
● Wipe with paper towels or microfiber cloths to pick up dirt and keep the glass clear and mark free.
● Do not use strong detergents or abrasive materials as they may leave a scratch on the piece.

Care and maintenance:
● Glass is susceptible to breakage. For practical and safety purposes, avoid putting heavy items on glass table tops, and that includes not sitting on the furniture.
● Refrain from putting very hot or cold plates of food directly on to a glass surface. Always use a placemat or trivet.
● As much as possible, place glass furniture away from the high traffic area of the house, especially if you have small children.

Cotton Fabrics

Next to wood, fabrics are perhaps the most commonly used pieces for home furnishings. There are various types for home interior, but the most popular would be cotton because it is inexpensive, comfortable and easy to maintain. Its use is extensive and can be seen in virtually almost every nook of the house - the list includes curtains, rugs, throws, upholstery and beddings. It comes in a number of variations but the most commonly used in home furnishings are sateen, flannel and twill.

Image showing Home Décor Products by Rocabu Designs

Cleaning Instructions:
● Most cotton items come with the care label. Always follow the manufacturer’s
recommendations to see if machine washing, hand washing or dry cleaning is best.

Decorative Throws via Rocabu Designs Home Décor Collections

● It is best to air dry cotton pieces as heat can cause shrinking. If you must use the machine for drying, use low or moderate heat.
● Clean pieces like cushion covers, upholstery and rugs by vacuuming regularly.
● Spot clean immediately. Use a mild soapy solution made from a small amount of bleach-free detergent and warm water. Gently dab the spot with a clean cloth until the stain is lifted.

Image via Rocabu Designs Instagram

Purchase Grey Decorative Throw

Care and maintenance
● Keep the pieces away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the fabric.
● Take the time to fix any loose bits such as threads, sequins or other decorative details on your piece.

Ceramics

Ceramic is a broad term that includes a variety of materials like porcelain and terracotta. Most commonly, these materials are found in bathrooms and kitchens, more specifically in the form of tiles that decorate the floor, walls and countertops, and of course tableware and cookware in various forms - stoneware, earthenware and porcelain. They also provide accents to the living rooms and bedrooms in the form of vases and collectible items.

Cleaning Instructions:
● Sweep or vacuum your tile floors a couple of times a week. Mop with a mild dish detergent and warm water at least once a week.
● Take extra care to clean the grout or filler between tiles to keep it from looking dingy.
● Remove stains from backsplashes and countertops using a multipurpose cleaner or wash with club soda and water.

Image via Rocabu Designs Interior Design Collections

● To clean porcelain and ceramic cookware / tableware, start with a gentle dish soap and water. Take off your rings and avoid using harsh scrubbers like sponges or toothbrushes to prevent scratches.
● Dust vases and decors as needed. If any part appears damaged, do not attempt to clean it until it has been repaired by a professional.

Image via Rocabu Designs Vases and Accent Pieces Home Décor Collections

Purchase Decorative Vase

Care and maintenance:
● Do not slide or roll heavy furniture across your ceramic tiled floor.
● Ensure that decorative pieces are placed on stable surfaces.
● Cups and mugs should not be stacked as these are prone to chipping, and should be stored rim side up.

Conclusion

Home furnishings are meant to be used and enjoyed but they do not necessarily have to look the part. With proper care and maintenance, you can be assured that your pieces are well enjoyed and still looking new and fresh for a long time. It is all about keeping your items clean and keeping in mind that prevention of possible damage is always easier than fixing it. This will help extend the life of your favorite pieces, ensuring you make the most of your hard earned money.