Fast Fixes for Cleaning

A pure bristle clothing brush lightly covered with dry-cleaning fluid will remove lint, dust and animal hair from upholstered surfaces.
Sponge napped fabrics with a textured washcloth dipped in a mixture of vinegar and water (stir 1 tbs. vinegar into 2 cups of cold water) and then rung dry as possible to freshen their appearance.
Vacuum plush fabrics at least once a week; brushing merely distributes the dust. Hold a steam iron about 1” above the surface of crushed velvets to raise the nap.
Spots and stains need to be cleaned as soon as possible. For greasy marks, such as lipstick, oils, or chocolate, use a dry cleaning solvent. For non-greasy stains, mix 1/2 tsp. liquid detergent with 1 qt. water, shake it up, and apply just the suds in small amounts, blotting between applications. For combination stains, use the detergent mixture first and the solvent next. Always follow label directions for dry cleaning solvent. Test the product first on a hidden part of the fabric.
Keep on hand an all-purpose stain-removal guide so you can properly treat any of the myriad substances that can stain your upholstery.

Pilling of certain fabrics:

Certain fabrics will pill off when new. Pilling is a characteristic of upholstery fabrics and results from excess fibre coming off the surface of the material. This is similar to the "fuzzing" experienced with a new carpet or a new sweater. The best treatment is simply to shave lightly with a fabric shaver to remove the little balls and restore the original look. This may be repeated 3 to 4 times before the pilling stops.

Glass and Metal Care Tips

• Cleaning. Most commercial window products will clean and shine furniture glass. Avoid using abrasive household cleaners or coarse cloths. Most glass tops and shelves can be removed for a thorough cleaning.
• Heavy Objects. Exercise caution when loading items on a glass shelf. Bending or deflection in the glass signals a possible break. A sudden shock, caused by dropping a small item, can result in a shattered shelf.
• Scratches. Avoid sliding objects across glass tabletops or shelves. Accessories should be lined on the bottom with felt to avoid grinding edges into the glass.
• Cleaning Metal. Should metal surfaces become dirty, wash with a mild soap and water solution. Buff surfaces with a paste wax or furniture polish for more shine.

Wood Furniture Care and Maintenance

• Furniture Polish. It is essential to dust and clean furniture regularly. Furniture polish removes soil, eliminates dust and provides protection to guard against accidental spills. Most commercial polishes will protect and preserve the finish on furniture.
• Oils. Furniture oils gently clean and condition wood while providing a rich, natural luster. They also penetrate and condition drying and cracking wood.
• Direct Sunlight. Protect furniture by arranging pieces out of direct sunlight. Steady, prolonged exposure can result in fading, hairline cracks or in some cases darkening.
• Temperature Changes. Avoid exposing furniture to temperature extremes. Do not place furniture near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, humidifiers or open windows. Localized heat damage can occur when hot dishes, pots or irons are placed directly on finished surfaces. Utilize pads, trivets and coasters to protect the surface.