Contents 1. Indoor Wood 2. Chinese Hardwood 3. PU & PVC 4. Polypropylene and other plastics 5. Leather 6. Mattresses 7. Metal 8. Mirrored 9. Upholstered 10. Outdoor Cane Furniture with/ without
Upholstery and Simulated Rattan 11. Outdoor Timber -Saligna -Acacia -Teak -Keuring
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1. Indoor Wood Furniture • Wood furniture represents a significant investment in many homes. To maintain its beauty and help it last, wood furniture needs regular & proper care. • Most wood furniture is finished with a fine varnish which is either in sheen, matt or gloss. • No finish is totally indestructible, but with regular care and the proper use of the furniture, it will last longer.
How do we avoid damaging wood furniture?
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When caring for your wooden furniture, first and foremost, think of where you are placing it in the room. Make sure to avoid putting it into the direct path of sunlight. The heat and light will wear the wood, fading it over time and making it harder to maintain. Use sheer curtains on windows to shield furniture from sunlight.
• Lift & place objects, don’t drag them across the surface. • Dust frequently to remove everyday abrasive particles. • Use a clean, soft cloth such as an old T-shirt to dust the furniture. • Polish the wood surfaces on a regular basis. • Clean up spills immediately (use a blotting action rather than wiping). • Avoid using wet cloths, as this will stain and damage the wood. • Make sure to place the wood away from heating and air conditioning units. • Always use coasters, place mats or other protective materials when placing anything on top of your wood furniture. • Never place hot objects directly onto the wood of your furniture as this can discolour the finish and leave a permanent mark in the wood. • Rubber, plastic, or vinyl products can stain furniture.
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Avoid leaving plastic table cloths or placemats on a wood surface.
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Handling spills and stains. Accidents do happen! Some spills may blot up quickly and easily while others may penetrate the wood. For most spills, quick action can reduce the possibility of damage. Never rub or scrub a spill.
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Blot up the spill immediately and polish with a soft, clean cloth.
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Candle wax or gum must be left to harden and then gently popped up with a non-stick spatula or credit card. Remove any residue with furniture cleaner and allow the surface to dry before you apply polish.
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Paint: Water based paints should be wiped up immediately with a damp, clean cloth. Oil-based paint: should be allowed to dry and then pushed away gently with a non-stick spatula or credit card.
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Nail polish and polish remover are dangerous solvents. If a spill occurs, do not rub or wipe it but blot immediately and let the surface dry. If damage has occurred, seek the expertise of a furniture repair specialist.
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Felt tipped pens can be used to hide small scratches on furniture.
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Bottled shoe polish can be used to cover up stains on furniture.
Water Stains
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The most common stains are the white spots and rings made by water.
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If it is a fresh stain then just remove the source of moisture on the wood surface.
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The white ring is water vapor trapped on the surface of the finish. It can disappear sometimes as it is re-absorbed by dry air. Humidity can delay the process and using a hair dryer can accelerate the process.
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2. Chinese hardwood Chinese hardwood is composed of different woods such as Meranti, Durian, Mersawa and Meng Kulang and is for indoor use only. Unpacking: • Hardwood must be oiled to avoid the wood absorbing water and widening. • The wood must be treated with oil before it is used. Apply plenty of oil and let it absorb for about 10 minutes. • Then wipe away the excess oil with a cloth. • If you leave the oil on for too long, it can leave dark stains. • If the wood is still absorbing oil, treatment should be repeated.
How do we care for this product? • • •
Surfaces must be cleaned regularly. Ensure surfaces are clean before oiling them, to avoid the absortion of dirt or mould into the wood. Use a plastic cover to avoid dirt and dust.
Treatment: • The easiest way to oil the wood, is to put the oil in a spray bottle and spray it onto the furniture. Remember to also apply to the bottom of the product. • Hardwood is a living material and will adjust to the environment in which it is placed. • Hardwood must be tightened regularly at the joints, especially when being used for the first time.
Storage: • It is recommended that all outdoor furniture made of wood be kept in unheated spaces, like garages or store rooms.
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3. PU & PVC furniture PVC is one of the most widely used plastics in the world. PVC is water resistant, making it a great choice for outdoor furniture items. PU, or also known as Bicast leather, is split leather with a layer of polyurethane applied to the surface and then embossed. The benefit of PU is it’s easy to clean and care for, and is more affordable than genuine leather.
How do we care for this product? • • •
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Keep away from direct sunlight & direct heat. For common dirt and stains use a soft cloth with mild soap and water Rinse the surface with clear water after cleaning.
Polypropylene and other Plastic Products
Polypropylene is a durable plastic used in a wide variety of furniture and can be molded into many shapes and forms. It is dirt resistant making it a useful furniture option.
How do we care for this product? • • • •
Use a soft rag, either wet or dry. When needed, use soap that is diluted in water. Do not use abrasive sponges as they may leave scratches. Avoid using acidic products, solvents and products containing ammonia.
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5. Leather Furniture How do we care for this product? • • • • • • • •
For indoor use only. Plump cushions regularly to distribute wear. Do not use ordinary general purpose cleaning agents as this will result in permanent staining and damage the leather. Use of wax leads to grime build-up on the surface of the leather. A vacuum cleaner can be used to remove surface dust. Genuine top grain leather: treat every 3 months with leather hide food. Do not treat Bi-Cast Leather. Conditioning could cause the plastic coating to part from the base leather. Due to the nature of the product, colour variation, marking and scaring should not be seen as defects.
Ordinary perspiration, grime and body oils will damage leather if not removed frequently, which is why areas of direct contact (armrests, headrests, seat cushions) should be given extra attention when cleaning. • • • •
Avoid over wetting of the leather. Avoid over rubbing. Leather is very sensitive to ultra violet light, and if placed in direct sun light, will fade. Avoid direct heat from fires and radiators which can dry out and distort the leather.
How do we handle spills and stains? • • • •
Blot excessive liquid immediately with a clean absobent cloth or sponge. Gently wipe the spill with clear, lukewarm water, cleaning the entire area where the spillage occurred. Dry with a clean cloth and allow to dry naturally. Don’t use a hairdryer or apply direct heat. For solids, remove the matter with a spoon, then clean the area with warm water. This should be repeated until removed.
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6. Mattresses Ensuring that you get the most life out of your bed is an important aspect of enjoying your sleep for years to come. These helpful mattress care tips should help prolong the life of your mattress. •
Invest in a Mattress Protector: A quality mattress protector serves several functions in prolonging the life of your mattress. A good mattress protector will bear the brunt of your weight and use of the mattress, which will help reduce the wear and tear on your mattress. Mattress protectors will also catch stains before they reach your mattress. Replacing a stained mattress pad is much less expensive and much more convenient than replacing a quality bed. Mattress protectors are available at Mr Price Home stores.
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Turn Your Mattress Regularly: To help prevent sagging springs and unsightly sags, turn on a regular basis. Be sure to flip both vertically and horizontally.
• Provide Support: Old, damaged, base sets may not be firm enough to provide adequate support for a high-quality bed. When you replace your bedding, also consider replacing your base. •
Carry Your Bed On Its Side: Instead of using the handles on the side when you are carrying it, be sure to always carry the bed upright on its side. The handles should only be used for positioning the mattress on the base and can create sags in the mattress if carried by the handles.
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Avoiding Smoking, Eating, & Drinking on the Mattresses/Beds: Although it sounds comfortable, avoid eating & drinking on your mattress. If it does get wet, be sure to quickly dry it using a hair dryer or by air drying. Keeping the mattress away from smoke can also help to prolong the life!
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Keep Jumping to the Trampoline: Although it’s tempting, avoid jumping on the bed and avoid letting others jump on the bed. Mattresses are not designed to withstand the weight of a person jumping on the bed.
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7. Metal Furniture How do we care for this product? • • • • • • • •
Should product get wet, wipe dry immediately with clean non-abrasive cloth. Do not leave outdoors for long periods of time as product could rust. Leaving items in rain could result in rusting. Direct sunlight could cause fading over time. Cleanliness is essential for maximum resistance to corrosion. Abrasive brushes & sponges should be avoided as they may leave particles embedded in the surface, which can lead to rusting. Minimum recommendation for routine cleaning is at least once a month. If metal bed frames are squeaking then just apply oil to the rivets and this will stop the squeaking.
How do we handle spills and stains? • • • •
Wipe over with a clean cloth & mild, soapy, warm water. Rinse immediately with clean, hot water. Dry off immediately after washing, using a dry cloth or chamois. Never leave water to sit on metal parts.
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8. Mirrored Furniture How do we care for this product? • • • • •
For indoor use only. Mirrored furniture is more fragile than normal furniture & not recommended for homes with small children or dogs running around! Mirrored furniture does require a bit more maintenance than other furniture. Clean with a soft non-abrasive cloth with warm, soapy water. The screws for the furniture must not be too tight- or else the mirror might crack.
How do we handle spills and stains? • • • •
Should product get wet, wipe dry immediately with clean non-abrasive cloth. Any dampness will leave ugly streak marks. If dirt proves difficult to remove, add a cup of vinegar to some warm water. Leave the vinegar solution on the areas of dirt for a few seconds & then wipe off. Dry in small circular motions with a dry, non-abrasive cloth.
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9. Upholstered Furniture How do we care for this product? • • • • • •
For indoor use only. Plump cushions regularly to distribute wear. A vacuum cleaner can be used to remove dust from furniture. Wipe furniture with a damp, non-abrasive cloth. Avoid direct contact with sunlight as it will cause fading over time. Darker colours may fade dramatically in direct sunlight.
How do we handle spills and stains? Never rub or scrub a spill. • When cleaning a spill, blot immediately to remove spilled material. Use a clean cloth. • Use warm, mild, soapy water with a soft, clean and non-abrasive cloth. • Wipe by starting at the end of the spill, working towards the centre. • Professional help should be taken if the upholstery is damaged or stained to a great extent. • To attend to mud or soiling on upholstery – these spills must be allowed to dry and then can be vacuumed away.
Annual Cleaning • • •
Call in professional cleaners or if you are planning to clean the chair yourselves, it is recommended that you only use high quality brands of upholstery shampoo. Customers should be reminded to follow the instruction on the container carefully. Soap, ammonia, bleach or any other cleaners intended for hard surfaces must never be used in an attempt to remove a stain.
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Outdoor Cane Furniture upholstered, non-upholstered and simulated rattan
How do we care for this product? • • • • •
For under cover use only. Vacuum cleaner with bristle attachment can be used to remove surface dust. Direct sunlight could cause product to fade or become brittle. NATURAL PRODUCT: colour variations and irregularities are common. Wipe stains with a damp cloth.
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Outdoor Timber Furniture eg. saligna, acacia, teak, keuring
For Indoor Use: • • • • •
Keep outdoor timber furniture out of the rain. Should timber get wet, wipe dry immediately with a clean, non- abrasive cloth. Do not leave this product outdoors for a long period of time. Treat the timber with furniture oil every 3 months. Direct sunlight could cause timber to crack.
If Leaving Outside: Your furniture has already been factory treated with an oil preservative, however we do recommend after unpacking and assembling your furniture, you thoroughly clean your furniture to remove any dust particles, then lightly oil the furniture and let dry. Step • • •
1: Important. After oiling wipe off the excess oil, then allow the oil to dry for (4) hours in the sunlight. Wipe off again with a clean rag removing any excess oil that may not have All timber furniture goes through a settling in period, where fasteners must be tightened regularly. do not leave fasteners untightened, this could cause furniture damage.
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If Leaving Outside: Step • • • •
2: Repeat the above procedure in 48 hours. Sanding is not required between these initial coats. Your furniture is now protected however repeat applications of the hardwood timber oil may be required every 3 months. Before re-oiling check your furniture for any residue build up, if this occurs a light sanding may be required. Note: The frequency of oiling will vary according to the climatic conditions in your area and direct exposure to the elements to which your furniture is subjected.
HELPFUL HINTS
If Acacia is neglected, with prolonged unprotected exposure to the elements, this will cause : • The timber to discolour to a silvery grey, and/or hairline cracks may appear. • If in the event your setting does discolour, to restore the timber sanding and oiling will be required. • We recommend the furniture be stored undercover during winter time and the wet season. • Wet timber must be dried for 3-5 days before oiling. Do not oil the furniture late in the day when dew or condensation is likely to form or when rain is threatening. • All timber furniture goes through a settling in period, where fasteners must be tightened regularly. do not leave fasteners untightened, this could cause furniture damage. Upon purchasing your furniture , even with kiln dried wood, small hairline cracks may appear. This is part of the drying process of this particular timber species. These cracks will not compromise the durability of the furniture. 3% shrinkage may occur in this species of timber.
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