CARE & MAINTENANCE

Wood Veneer

Wooden veneer is a natural product. Every sheet of veneer will look different; the sign of its heritage, quality of soil, amount of rain and Sun will have an influence on the color and structure of the wood. When exposed to sunlight, veneer will change color. Covered parts will retain their shade. Certain types of veneer are harder, while others are soft and can easily be scratched. Normally veneer surfaces are protected by lacquer; however a little care will help to maintain its natural beauty.

 

Dust: Dust with a soft cloth by following the grain pattern of the wood. Dust often to remove everyday abrasive particles from wood surfaces. Before dusting, moisten cloth lightly with a spray product. A dry cloth can leave hairline scratches on the finish.

 

Stains: Liquids left on the surface will be absorbed and leave marks on it. It is recommended to immediately remove spills from any wooden surface. There are do-it-yourself first aid kits for stubborn stains; however applying the wrong remedy might worsen the damage. If unsure it is best to consult the manufacturer of the furniture.

 

Upholstery: Leather

Leather is synonymous with luxury, class and culture, yet leather is a durable and practical covering. It will not readily burn or melt, and unlike most fabric or vinyl, it’s extremely difficult to puncture. Unlike imitation leathers, genuine leather will not become hot or sticky in summer, nor cold and clammy in winter. Because it is a natural product, hides may have different patterns and over the years leather will take patina, giving it a distinct look, making each piece of furniture a unique item.

 

Being a natural product, it needs little or no care during normal use. However, in the event that you have a spot or spill, the following cleaning hints should help. Spots and Spills: Blot liquid immediately with a clean absorbent cloth or sponge. Dry with a clean towel and allow to air dry. Avoid rubbing during the cleaning process.

 

Stubborn Spots and Stains: Use a mild solution of ivory soap and clear, lukewarm water. Apply the soap to a clean, wet sponge, then rinse well and let air dry naturally. Always try the cleaning method in a hidden area first to be sure its color will not run or fade with washing or wear.

 

Butter, Oil, or Grease: Wipe spilt butter, oil, or grease off the leather with a clean, dry cloth, then leave it alone as the spot should dissipate into the leather in a short period of time. Do not apply water to try to wash butter, oil, or grease stain.

 

Never use saddle soap, abrasive cleanser, soap, furniture polish oil, varnish or ammonia water to clean your leather products. Most liquids will be initially repelled by the leather, but if left to stand over an extended period of time, they will be absorbed.

 

Upholstery: Fabric

The term fabric describes a number of different materials. There are natural and synthetic fibers which, according to the base material use, require different treatments. In most cases stains and spills can be removed easily; however we recommend using caution and the use of proper cleaning methods.

 

Vacuuming: Weekly vacuuming or light brushing helps to remove soil and prevent the embedding of dirt or grime between fibers which can increase abrasion and wear.

 

Stain removal: Stains on wool or cotton can be removed by using a warm cloth and if required an approved fabric shampoo. When removing stains please use caution, i.e. do not rub too hard on the fabric.

 

Machine washing: Certain covers may be removable and machine washable. Please check beforehand as some fabrics may shrink during the process. Never use undiluted cleaning agents, ammonia or detergent not intended for the use on fabric.

 

Upholstery: Vinyl

Vinyl, also known as PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is widely used in many different industries. Because of its durability it is also common place to be used for furniture, especially in the hospitality sector. Vinyl comes in infinite colors and only little care is needed to keep them fresh and lively on you furniture.

 

Regular cleaning: You may use a mild detergent and water. Stubborn soil can be removed by using a bristle brush. Soil may also be loosened by letting a detergent solution stand on the surface and soak for a few minutes. Act immediately when removing spills or stains from vinyl. You may use paper towels or a white cloth. Solvents should only be applied to the vinyl and be kept away from other materials such as wood or metal.

 

Special Cleaning: Special vinyl cleaners may help removing stubborn soil. As stains are absorbed by the vinyl, a vinyl protective finish may help protecting the upholstery. Never use abrasive cleaners as they may scratch the surface. Certain cleaners, intended for other purposes may remove plasticizers, making them brittle.

 

Metal Finishes: Powder coating

• In order to protect metal surfaces we can draw on a number of different processes. Powder coating is widely used for partitions, system furniture and loose furniture alike. The coating comes in different thicknesses, according to the use and can be supplied in any color thinkable. Cleaning methods depend on the chemical composition and the fastness of the coat cleaning however the following will apply in general.
• Regular cleaning: In order to remove dirt or stains, clear water can be used to clean powder coated surfaces. Soft, non-abrasive cloth may support the cleaning process. In general most products recommended for automotive can be used as well. Never use abrasive cleaning agents or detergents containing a large percentage of acid or alkaline. Hart bristles of brushes may also damage the surface. Steam jet cleaners are not suitable for cleaning of powder coated surfaces. It is important that both, surface and cleaning detergent are not warmer than 35 Degrees Celsius and that the powder coat is not exposed to direct sunlight during cleaning.

 

Metal Finishes: Chromium plating

The name chromium derives from the Greek word chromos, meaning color. Chrome is a blue white metal which can be used to protect metal surfaces. The coating will be very durable and hard, however it will have a brilliant lustre. In certain cases satin matt plating is used which looks similar to anodized surfaces.

 

Regular cleaning: In most cases a damp cloth will be sufficient to clean chromium plated surfaces. In case of gummy soil, rubbing with baking soda can help in most cases. In case sudsy water is used, please wipe the surface dry after cleaning to ensure a shiny surface.

 

Special Cleaning: Should there be difficult spots a special metal polish may be required. Please only use those, especially made to clean chromium plated surfaces. Never use abrasive cleaners or rough sponges as they may scratch the surface.

 

Metal Finishes: Anodizing

To protect Aluminum it can be anodized, which is a process whereby aluminum oxide is grown out of the surface. An electric current is passed through an acid electrolyte bath while the aluminum is immersed in it. Dying the aluminum is possible because of the porous nature of the anodized layer. Anodizing does not rub off and is therefore suitable for

 

Regular cleaning: Cleaning anodized aluminum is easy. Because anodizing is so hard, you want to use an abrasive cleaning technique with a gentle soap. Do not use harsh acidic or alkaline cleaners because they may destroy the finish. Use solvents with care as they may stain the finish. It is best to try a test area first. Special abrasive cleaning sponges can be obtained from certain vendors and these can be used in connection with mild dish washing liquid.

 

Laminate

Laminate is a very durable surface but can be stained or damaged by improper handling.

 

Protection: Avoid mishandling of knives or other sharp tools for they may slice or scratch the surface. Although laminate can withstand high temperatures it is not recommended to place hot objects on the surface over a prolonged period of time.

 

Cleaning: Little care is needed. Regular cleaning can prolong its life span and beautiful appearance. In most cases all that is required is a damp cloth to remove stains. A mild non abrasive cleaner may be used. For high gloss laminate, a mild glass cleaner can be used to remove streaks. Never use cleaning agents containing acid, alkali, or sodium hypochlorite. These cleaners will mar, etch, corrode, and permanently discolor the laminate surface. Also, make sure that bottles, rags, and other materials contaminated with these cleaners never contact the laminate surface. Never use abrasive cleaners, powders or sandpaper to clean laminate surfaces. Acid based cleaners will permanently damage and stain laminate. Even some commercial self cleaning waxes may contain abrasives and are therefore not recommended.