Furniture Care Guide
At selapavia, we believe that proper furniture care helps maintain the appearance, functionality, and everyday comfort of your furniture. Regular cleaning, proper use, and appropriate maintenance can help reduce unnecessary wear and keep your furniture in good condition.
Because furniture varies in materials, finishes, and construction, its care requirements may also differ. Before cleaning, moving, storing, or maintaining any furniture, always review the product manual, care label, and manufacturer’s instructions.
This guide provides general care recommendations for outdoor furniture and living room furniture. Some methods may not be suitable for every product or material.
1. General Furniture Care
Consistent, gentle maintenance helps keep furniture clean and makes it easier to identify potential issues that may require attention.
Routine Cleaning
Remove dust regularly. Use a soft, clean cloth or another suitable cleaning tool to remove dust, crumbs, and loose debris from furniture surfaces.
Choose appropriate cleaning tools. Before selecting a cloth, brush, or cleaning product, confirm the furniture’s material and surface finish.
Use suitable cleaning products. Follow the product’s care instructions and the cleaner’s label. If you are unsure whether a product is suitable, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Clean up spills promptly. Use an appropriate absorbent cloth to remove spilled liquids as soon as possible. Avoid rubbing aggressively, as this may push stains deeper into fabric or spread them across a larger surface area.
Avoid excessive moisture. Do not allow water or cleaning solutions to accumulate on furniture surfaces, seams, joints, or other areas that may be sensitive to moisture.
Allow proper drying. Follow the care instructions for the specific material and ensure the furniture is sufficiently dry before using or covering it.
Preventing Surface Damage
Unless the product instructions specifically permit their use, avoid abrasive pads, rough brushes, and harsh chemical cleaners. Strong acids, strong alkalis, solvents, and other aggressive cleaning products may damage certain furniture finishes, fabrics, plastics, or other materials.
Do not assume that a cleaning product suitable for one piece of furniture will also be appropriate for another. Even surfaces that look similar may require different cleaning methods.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Periodically inspect visible screws, fasteners, joints, support components, and other accessible parts. Look for looseness, cracks, unusual movement, or other signs of wear.
Follow the product instructions when tightening or maintaining hardware. Do not overtighten fasteners or attempt repairs that could compromise the furniture’s stability or safety.
2. Outdoor Furniture Care
Outdoor furniture may be exposed to sunlight, rain, wind, airborne debris, temperature changes, and moisture. Appropriate maintenance depends on the furniture’s materials, surface finish, construction, and intended use.
Routine Cleaning
Regularly remove dust, leaves, dirt, and other debris from outdoor furniture. Pay particular attention to corners, joints, woven areas, and spaces where dirt may accumulate.
Use a cleaning cloth, soft-bristled brush, or another suitable tool according to the product’s care instructions. If water or a cleaning solution is permitted, use it as directed and avoid soaking materials that may absorb moisture or become damaged by excessive wetting.
After cleaning, allow the furniture to dry according to the instructions for its specific material and construction.
Weather Protection
Taking appropriate precautions can help reduce unnecessary damage caused by severe weather and prolonged environmental exposure.
Use a furniture cover only when it is suitable for the specific furniture and intended conditions.
Follow the cover manufacturer’s instructions regarding fit, ventilation, and proper use.
When conditions allow and the product instructions permit it, move portable furniture to a sheltered area during severe weather.
If strong winds are expected, secure or store lightweight furniture as appropriate.
Consider the effects of prolonged direct sunlight, rain, and temperature changes when choosing where to place furniture.
Follow any product-specific restrictions regarding outdoor exposure and seasonal use.
Not all outdoor furniture is waterproof, rust-resistant, UV-resistant, or corrosion-resistant, and not every product is designed to remain outdoors year-round. Do not assume that furniture can withstand all weather conditions simply because it is intended for outdoor use.
Moisture and Ventilation
Depending on the furniture’s materials and construction, standing water or prolonged dampness may cause staining, material deterioration, corrosion, or other damage.
Remove standing water when permitted by the product’s care instructions. Avoid storing damp furniture for extended periods in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces, especially when the materials may be sensitive to moisture.
If you use a protective cover, follow its instructions to help prevent moisture from becoming trapped underneath. Unless the furniture and cover instructions specifically permit it, do not cover furniture while it is still wet.
Seasonal Storage
Some outdoor furniture may require additional protection during severe weather or extended periods of non-use.
Before storing furniture, consider the following steps:
Remove loose dirt and debris.
Clean the furniture using an appropriate method.
Allow the furniture to dry thoroughly according to its care instructions.
Store removable cushions and accessories as directed.
Choose a storage area suitable for the furniture’s materials and environmental conditions.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidance regarding disassembly, stacking, and protective covers.
Do not stack or disassemble furniture unless the product instructions permit it. Arrange stored components carefully to reduce the risk of scratches, crushing, moisture damage, or instability.
3. Living Room Furniture Care
Living room furniture may be exposed to dust, food and beverage spills, body oils, sunlight, and indoor temperature changes during everyday use. Establishing a regular care routine can help maintain its appearance and functionality.
Dusting and Surface Cleaning
Regularly remove dust using a soft, clean cloth or a cleaning tool suitable for the furniture’s surface.
For finished surfaces, avoid excessive pressure and unnecessary moisture. Before using cleaning sprays, polishes, or multipurpose cleaners, review the product instructions. Some products may leave residue or affect certain finishes.
For upholstered furniture, remove loose dust and debris using a method suitable for the fabric and construction. Use a vacuum cleaner and appropriate attachment only when permitted by the care instructions. Take care around seams, piping, buttons, and other delicate details.
Sunlight and Heat
Prolonged exposure to strong direct sunlight may cause fading, discoloration, drying, or other changes in certain furniture materials.
When practical, adjust furniture placement to reduce unnecessary direct sunlight. Consider using curtains or other window coverings in particularly sunny rooms.
Keep furniture at an appropriate distance from heaters, fireplaces, and other heat sources, following the relevant furniture and appliance safety instructions. Excessive heat may affect certain finishes, adhesives, upholstery materials, and structural components.
Unless the product instructions specifically permit it, do not place hot cookware, heating appliances, or other hot objects directly on furniture surfaces.
Spills and Stain Removal
Clean up food, beverages, and other spilled liquids promptly.
Gently absorb excess liquid with a clean, absorbent cloth.
Avoid aggressive rubbing, repeated scrubbing, or spreading the stain over a larger area.
Check the product’s care label or manual for an appropriate cleaning method.
Test any approved cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area before use.
Allow the cleaned area to dry thoroughly according to the product instructions.
Different types of stains may require different treatments. Ink, grease, dyes, and other stubborn stains may not respond to the same cleaning method. Do not use strong stain removers or solvents without confirming that they are suitable for the material.
If a stain is difficult to remove or the furniture’s material is uncertain, consult the product-specific care instructions before attempting further treatment.
Furniture Placement and Everyday Use
Place furniture on a stable, suitable surface and ensure that it remains balanced during normal use.
Avoid prolonged uneven loading, excessive pressure on individual sections, or activities beyond the furniture’s intended purpose. Minimize repeated impacts and unnecessary friction to help prevent surface damage.
When moving furniture, use an appropriate handling method. Ask for assistance when moving heavy or awkward pieces. Protect both the floor and furniture surfaces to prevent scratches, dents, and impact damage.
4. Material-Specific Furniture Care
The following recommendations apply only to furniture that actually contains the relevant materials. Furniture may combine several materials, and different finishes or construction methods may require different care routines.
Always consult the specific product instructions before using any cleaning method.
Wood and Wood-Based Surfaces
Depending on the finish and construction, wood and wood-based surfaces may be sensitive to excessive moisture, heat, scratches, and prolonged direct sunlight.
Remove dust with a soft, clean cloth.
Clean up spills promptly using a method appropriate for the surface finish.
Avoid leaving wet items or standing water on the surface for extended periods.
Use coasters or suitable protective pads when appropriate.
Reduce prolonged exposure to strong direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Avoid abrasive cleaners, rough cleaning pads, and unapproved polishes or conditioning oils.
Do not assume that every wood surface requires the same polish, care product, or cleaning solution. Painted, sealed, laminated, veneered, and unfinished wood surfaces may have different maintenance requirements.
Metal Surfaces
Metal furniture components may have different finishes and varying levels of resistance to environmental exposure.
Regularly remove dust and surface debris.
Use a cleaning method suitable for the specific metal and its finish.
Dry surfaces when required by the product instructions.
Inspect visible areas for scratches, chipped finishes, discoloration, or signs of corrosion.
Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive tools that could damage protective coatings.
If surface damage or corrosion appears, consult the product instructions before deciding whether sanding, repainting, sealing, or another repair method is appropriate. Do not attempt unapproved treatments.
Plastic and Resin Surfaces
Plastic and resin surfaces may be affected by abrasive cleaning, certain solvents, excessive heat, or prolonged sunlight.
Use a soft cloth or an appropriate nonabrasive cleaning tool.
Use a mild cleaning solution only when permitted by the product instructions.
Remove cleaning residue as directed.
Avoid rough scouring pads, sharp tools, and unapproved solvents.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidance regarding outdoor exposure and storage.
Do not assume that all plastic or resin materials have the same resistance to fading, cracking, or temperature changes.
Fabric and Upholstery
Upholstered furniture may vary in fiber type, weave, backing, dye, and finish. A cleaning method suitable for one fabric may damage another.
Regularly remove dust and loose debris using an appropriate method.
Check the care label before spot-cleaning or applying a cleaning solution.
When appropriate, gently blot spills with a clean, absorbent cloth.
Avoid excessive moisture, aggressive rubbing, and unapproved stain removers.
If the product has removable covers, clean them according to the applicable instructions.
Allow cleaned areas to dry thoroughly as directed before returning the furniture to normal use.
Do not assume that all upholstery fabrics are machine-washable, suitable for steam cleaning, or compatible with the same upholstery cleaner.
Leather and Similar Upholstery Materials
If a product uses leather or a similar upholstery material, follow the care instructions specifically provided for that material.
Remove surface dust with an appropriate soft cloth.
Address spills promptly using the recommended method.
Avoid unapproved household cleaners, solvents, oils, and conditioning products.
Minimize unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any permitted conditioning products or specialized care methods.
Leather, coated leather, synthetic leather, and other similar-looking materials may have different cleaning requirements. Do not use a leather-care product unless it has been confirmed as suitable for the specific upholstery material.
Glass Surfaces
Glass components require careful handling and regular inspection.
Remove dust with a soft, clean cloth.
Use a glass cleaner only when it is confirmed to be suitable for the glass surface and surrounding materials.
Avoid allowing cleaning liquid to accumulate around seams, edges, or other components that may be sensitive to moisture.
Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the glass.
Regularly inspect visible glass areas for cracks, chips, or other damage.
If glass has visible cracks or chips that could compromise safety, stop using the affected furniture. Seek an appropriate professional assessment or consult the product-specific guidance before further use or attempting repairs.
Wicker and Woven Materials
Wicker and other woven furniture may be made from natural fibers, synthetic materials, or combinations of different components. Care requirements vary accordingly.
Remove dust and loose debris with an appropriate soft-bristled brush or cloth.
Clean gently, paying particular attention to areas where dirt may accumulate.
Avoid pulling, overstretching, or snagging woven strands.
Use water or cleaning solutions only when permitted by the product instructions.
Follow the product’s guidance regarding drying, outdoor exposure, and storage.
Do not assume that all woven furniture is suitable for prolonged outdoor exposure or can be cleaned using the same methods.
5. Cleaning Products and Methods to Avoid
Using unsuitable cleaning products or techniques may damage furniture surfaces, weaken materials, or create unnecessary safety risks.
Unless specifically permitted by the product instructions, avoid the following:
Harsh chemical cleaners: Strong acids, strong alkalis, aggressive solvents, and other unsuitable cleaning products may damage finishes, upholstery, or structural components.
Abrasive tools: Steel wool, rough scouring pads, and hard-bristled brushes may scratch or wear down surfaces.
Excessive water: Large amounts of water may damage moisture-sensitive materials, finishes, seams, or joints.
Pressure washing: Pressure washers may damage surfaces, force water into joints, or loosen components. Use them only when the product instructions explicitly permit it.
Steam cleaning: Heat and moisture may damage certain finishes, fabrics, adhesives, and other components. Confirm suitability before use.
Mixing cleaning chemicals: Never mix different cleaning products unless their labels explicitly state that doing so is safe. Certain combinations may produce hazardous fumes or dangerous chemical reactions.
Unapproved polishes or conditioning products: Oils, waxes, polishes, and conditioners may be unsuitable for certain finishes or upholstery materials.
Unsafe repair methods: Do not attempt unreliable structural repairs, force damaged components back into place, or use replacement hardware that has not been confirmed as suitable.
Always follow the safety instructions on cleaning product labels. When directed, use products in a well-ventilated area and keep cleaning supplies and other maintenance products out of reach of children and pets.
If you are unsure whether a cleaning product or method is suitable, review the product instructions before proceeding.
6. Furniture Safety and Regular Inspection
Furniture care involves more than cleaning. It also includes checking that furniture remains stable and suitable for normal use. Regular inspections can help identify visible problems that require attention.
Assembly and Fasteners
Follow the assembly instructions provided with the furniture. Periodically inspect accessible screws, bolts, connectors, and other fasteners, especially when recommended by the product instructions.
Only tighten hardware as directed. Avoid overtightening fasteners or making adjustments that could damage materials or compromise the furniture’s stability.
Structural Condition
Inspect visible support components, joints, frames, and other load-bearing areas for cracks, unusual movement, bending, or other signs of damage.
If you discover a structural problem, severe looseness, a broken component, or another condition that could make the furniture unsafe, stop using it. Do not resume use until the issue has been appropriately assessed and resolved.
Proper Furniture Use
Use furniture only for its intended purpose.
Do not exceed the weight limits or other usage restrictions specified for the product.
Do not stand on, climb on, or jump on furniture unless it is specifically designed for those activities.
Avoid placing excessive pressure on armrests, edges, or other components that are not designed to support such loads.
Ensure that furniture is positioned on a stable surface.
Follow all product-specific safety warnings and assembly instructions.
Do not assume that furniture products with similar appearances have identical weight limits or safety characteristics.
Moving Furniture Safely
Before moving furniture, remove loose items and accessories when appropriate. Check the product instructions to determine whether disassembly or special handling procedures are recommended.
Use appropriate lifting techniques and ask for assistance when moving heavy or awkward pieces. Avoid dragging furniture directly across the floor, as this may damage flooring, furniture legs, glides, or frames.
Do not lift furniture by components that are not designed to support its weight. If the recommended lifting points are unclear, consult the product instructions before moving it.
7. Long-Term Furniture Care Tips
Simple, consistent maintenance habits can help reduce unnecessary wear and support the continued everyday use of furniture.
Establish a Cleaning Schedule
Adjust cleaning frequency according to how often the furniture is used, where it is located, and how much dust, food, moisture, or other debris it encounters. Frequently used furniture may require more regular cleaning than furniture used occasionally.
Choose gentle cleaning methods suited to the material and avoid unnecessary intensive cleaning.
Adjust Care to the Environment
For outdoor furniture, consider seasonal changes, local weather conditions, and the product’s intended environment. For indoor furniture, pay attention to sunlight, heat sources, humidity, and everyday use.
Adjust furniture placement, protective measures, and storage practices only when appropriate for the specific product.
Keep Product Documentation
Keep assembly instructions, care labels, and other product documentation in a safe place. These materials can help you identify suitable cleaning methods, understand usage restrictions, and determine whether a particular maintenance procedure is appropriate.
If documentation is missing or unclear, seek guidance before using an unfamiliar cleaning product or attempting repairs.
Monitor Changes Over Time
Regularly observe changes in furniture surfaces, stability, fasteners, upholstery, and other visible components. Minor surface wear may occur through normal use, but significant damage or structural changes may require professional assessment.
Address concerns promptly and avoid attempting repairs that could compromise safety.
A regular care routine cannot completely prevent wear, fading, or damage over time. Results depend on the furniture’s materials, construction, environment, and maintenance practices.
8. Product-Specific Care Instructions
Furniture care requirements may vary according to the product’s materials, surface finishes, construction, accessories, and intended use.
This guide provides general recommendations and may not apply to every product. Always prioritize the instructions supplied with the specific item, including its assembly manual, care label, and manufacturer’s guidance.
If a general recommendation in this guide differs from the formal instructions for a particular product, follow the product-specific instructions.
Before removing stains, treating surface damage, storing furniture for an extended period, or attempting repairs, confirm that the proposed method is suitable for the product.
If you have questions about the appropriate cleaning method, routine maintenance, or specific care requirements for a particular item, our Customer Service Team can help you find relevant product information.
9. Contact Us
If you need assistance with furniture cleaning, routine maintenance, or product-specific care instructions, please contact our Customer Service Team using the information below.
Email: care@selapavia.com
Phone: +1 (925) 271-6843
Address: 5476 Roundtree Pl #E, Concord, CA 94521, United States
Customer Service Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM Pacific Time (America/Los_Angeles)