How To Care For Your Furniture So It Lasts

Posted On August 19, 2024

For more than 70 years, Fairfield Galleries has been a trusted resource for all things furniture in Fort Wayne. The knowledge we’ve accrued over that time is something we like to share with our customers, and here we’ll address one of the more popular topics in our industry: how to care for your furniture so it lasts.

Basic Cleaning

This one’s a no-brainer. If you want your furniture to last a long time, consistent basic cleaning is essential. Along with dusting and tending to minor spots and spills, you should also apply a deeper clean to items like your couch and loveseat to maintain the integrity of the fabric and the vibrancy of its color. Different materials require different cleaning methods, and there are some general do’s and don’ts that apply to furniture cleaning, so don’t hesitate to contact us with questions along the way.

Surface Protection

Coasters and placemats are must-haves if you want your furniture to look great year after year. It only takes a few seconds for a hot mug to make an indelible mark in an unprotected tabletop, and the same is true for cold beverages that leave a ringed stain when not placed on a coaster. Some materials and finishes are more durable than others, so it pays to know what your furniture can and can’t handle regarding heat and moisture. If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Avoid Store-Bought Waxes and Polishes

Our furniture pros in Fort Wayne recommend that you avoid using store-bought waxes or polishes to spruce up your furniture. There are too many uncertainties involved, and often it’s impossible to know how the chemicals in these products will react to the finish of your desk or armchair. If you want to bring some shine back to your furnishings, the best option is to contact a professional like Fairfield Galleries. The recommendations we provide are risk-free.

No Pets

Many homeowners won’t want to hear this, but it’s true: pets and furniture don’t mix. From the puppy who wants to use the legs of a kitchen table as a chew toy, to the cat whose claws do a number on a leather couch, pets often have an adverse effect on furniture. Wood furniture and upholstered items are equally at risk of tears, stains, and chewing damage, and it’s important to take preventive measures quickly. If your pet is targeting a few specific areas/furnishings in your home, we recommend installing some protective edging. This can be changed out as needed, and there are clear ones available that are barely noticeable. You could also invest in a furniture cover, but this may not be practical depending on the piece of furniture and its location in your home.

Talk With Our Furniture Pros Today

Fairfield Galleries is a trusted furniture store in Fort Wayne, providing top quality furnishings and design expertise to homeowners throughout the Tri-State area. Contact us today and tap into our 70+ years of home furnishings experience, including veteran insights into furniture care and restoration.