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Care and Maintenance of furniture

23 May 2022

Furniture is one of the most important elements in our homes. The perfect symbiosis between form and function provides us with comfort and consequently a better quality of life. By preserving your favourite pieces correctly, you will maintain their natural aesthetics and extend the time you can use them.

 

Jota Barbosa products are carefully designed using first quality materials, finishes and construction methods to meet your daily requirements. On our website you have at your disposal all the necessary care to keep your luxury furniture intact.

 

With the cleaning and care recommendations to follow, you can guarantee the durability of your products for many years.

 

 

 

Wood

 

Wood and veneers are natural raw materials and as such are susceptible to changes in grain and colour.

 

To clean, start by removing dust using a soft, damp cloth. If necessary, use specific wood cleaning products. Be very careful when cleaning to avoid scratching the surface. If there are any grease stains, you should proceed with the removal using a soft cloth, moistened with neutral soap and finally repeat the procedure with a dry cloth so as not to leave the wood damp.

 

Avoid heat sources, not exposing the furniture directly to the sun. Exposure can change the colour of the wood and varnish. All decorative elements, such as candles without candlesticks, for example, should be protected or moved very carefully.

 

In addition, it is important to wax the wood or apply other similar products to keep the piece cared for and spotless.  Never use solvents, products containing solvents or aerosols, as they may damage the wood.

 

 

 

 

Mirrors

 

Good maintenance and cleaning of your mirrors is essential to prolong the quality of your mirror’s materials. Incorrect techniques can compromise the wear of the material and cause oxidation stains to appear, leading to deterioration of the mirror.

 

Start by removing dust with a duster, then use a damp cloth with glass cleaner or alcohol diluted in water and dry with a soft cloth. The use of abrasive cleaners and steel wool pads should be avoided on this type of material as they are likely to scratch the surface.

 

Never spray any cleaning product directly on the mirror, giving preference to neutral ones as they do not contain ammonia. Make sure the edges of the mirror are completely dry.

 

 

 

Glass

 

To preserve the good appearance of your windows you will need to maintain regular cleaning.

 

Start by removing dust with a duster, then use a damp cloth with glass detergent or alcohol diluted in water and dry with a soft cloth.

 

When the glass has two sides you should clean one side with horizontal movements and the other side with vertical movements, so that you can see which side still has stains. Avoid using alcohol when cleaning the glass as it can cause unpleasant stains.

 

 

 

 

Metal

 

Metal materials should be cleaned thoroughly as they are very perishable to be damaged. Clean the surface with a clean cloth slightly dampened in neutral detergent and warm water.

 

Do not use chemicals or abrasives as they can permanently damage the finish. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, clean cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive kitchen cleaners.

 

To remove fingerprints, use a soft cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Wipe regularly with a soft, dry cloth. To polish chrome-plated or polished surfaces regularly, use metal polishing products to ensure durability.

 

 

 

 

Upholstery

 

Turn removable cushions frequently to promote even wear and increase the longevity of the piece. If the product feature doesn’t allow it, remove the cushions and flatten them so they don’t take shape where they sit most regularly.

 

Vacuum the upholstery weekly using a specific hoover attachment for upholstery to ensure greater comfort, resistance and durability.

 

An annual cleaning by a professional service specialising in upholstery cleaning is recommended. Take special care when spraying chemical products near the upholstered material.

 

To minimise wear and tear and help keep upholstery in good condition, avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near radiators and fireplaces.

 

 

 

Fabric

 

Use a clean, dry hand towel or cloth to brush the entire piece. Avoid using coloured towels or sponges, as the paint can change the colour of the upholstery. Use cold water to help clean tough spills.

 

Never use hot water, as it tends to fix stains, but if you want to remove a nasty stain, use warm water and gently remove it. For a more thorough cleaning you can opt to use a soft bristle brush.

 

 

 

Leather

 

As with fabrics, exposure of the leather to sunlight, heat sources and the use of unsuitable detergents can irreparably damage the leather covering.

 

Wipe regularly with a dry cloth and vacuum using appropriate accessories to remove residual dust and prevent the accumulation of dirt. Leather furniture should be protected from exposure to sun and heat, as these can cause the leather to dry out and eventually crack.

 

Do not use products intended for wooden furniture. They can stain and damage leather permanently.

 

Don’t leave splashes lying around for a long period of time as they can be absorbed. Prevent them from becoming stains by wiping them off immediately with a clean, dry, white cloth.

 

 

 

 

Velvet

 

Use a clean, soft cloth or brush to remove residue and dirt from the upholstery surface. Vacuum the upholstered furniture with a hoover attachment designated for use on furniture.

 

To remove stains from velvet upholstered furniture, you should apply a soft, clean cloth to absorb the liquid and dry the stain. Then apply a clean cloth dampened with dry cleaning product to remove the stain. Do not apply too much pressure as this can damage the fabric.

 

Use a steamer to restore the shine to the velvet. For the best possible result, move the steamer in the orientation of the furniture.

 

To minimise fading and help keep upholstery in good condition, avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near radiators and fireplaces.