Furniture Cleaning + Care
While we always recommend visiting the manufacturer's own website for the latest information, the following is a guide to assist you in maintaining and caring for your furniture.
Click to expand each section:
Ethnicraft | Varnished wood
Varnished wooden items are finished with a protective coating. This finish gives the item its desired colour and offers protection against stains, though even with this extensive treatment, spills should be removed immediately.
Regular care
For regular dusting, use a dry cloth. For cleaning or in case of a spill, use a damp cloth and natural soap. Wipe in the direction of the grain. Do not use soap containing detergent or other chemicals. Dry with a soft clean cloth to prevent spotting.
We always recommend protecting surfaces with coasters, mousepads or placemats, as extreme and repetitive daily use or heat can damage the finish.
Always move objects such as flowerpots, vases, etc. from time to time, and ensure any excess water or dampness is wiped dry immediately to prevent marking the surface.
Metal structure
Dust regularly using a soft dry cloth.
For a more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acid, bleach or chlorine cleaners on metal surfaces.
Do not drag the furniture along the floor, as it might damage the protective coating, cause rusting or leave permanent marks on the floor.
Always lift the furniture when moving it from place to place.
General care & maintenance tips
01. Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
02. To prevent colour differences, do not place furniture or accessories in direct sunlight, and move objects placed on the furniture from time to time. Open your extendable table the first three weeks after installing and afterwards on a regular basis.
03. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Do not place furniture or accessories near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
04. To prevent staining, remove any spills immediately.
05. When cleaning the surface, always work in the direction of the wood grain.
06. Use place mats and/or coasters to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
07. Do not drag the furniture along the floor; always lift the furniture when moving.
08. Always ensure water solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it may leave permanent marks. For items that feature rubber glides, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners on floors they are in direct contact with.
09. Indoor products are not intended for outdoor use. An outdoor product will always indicate so in its name.
10. Last but not least, we always recommend carefully reading the care instructions specific to your item.
Ethnicraft | Oiled oak furniture
Oiled oak furniture is finished with a pigmented hardwax oil. This finish gives the furniture its desired natural colour and has the advantage that stains do not penetrate the wood as easily. This is no foolproof guarantee against stains. In case of a spill, remove it immediately.
Click here to watch a video on caring for your oiled oak furniture
Preventive treatment
To refresh your furniture or to remove superficial stains we recommend Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner (3029). This product cleans and regenerates the character of the wood and slightly reinforces the original protective coating. Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner is no guarantee against stains.
Regular care
For regular dusting, use a dry cloth. For cleaning or in case of a spill, use a damp cloth and natural soap. Wipe in the direction of the grain. Do not use soap containing detergent or other chemicals. Dry with a soft, clean cloth to prevent spotting.
We always recommend protecting surfaces with coasters, mousepads, or placemats, as extreme and repetitive daily use or heat can damage the finish.
Always move objects such as flowerpots, vases, etc. from time to time, and ensure any excess water or dampness is wiped dry immediately to prevent marking the surface.
Thorough care
The original hardwax coating may need to be renewed. We recommend using Osmo Hardwax Oil Natural (3041).
In case of discolouration, stubborn stains or to remove a superficial scratch, we advise sanding the entire surface first. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying the Hardwax Oil. Spread the product evenly over the surface and remove any excess product to avoid spots after drying.
Metal structure
Dust regularly using a soft dry cloth.
For a more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acid, bleach or chlorine cleaners on metal surfaces.
Do not drag the furniture along the floor, as it might damage the protective coating, cause rusting or leave permanent marks on the floor.
Always lift the furniture when moving it from place to place.
Recommended product
Osmo hardwax oil
Retain the natural character of your indoor oak item, whilst increasing durability. Osmo Hardwax Oil naturally preserves and enhances the tone and appearance of oak surfaces, repelling moisture and dirt to make it harder-wearing. Choose between two colour finishes. In case of discolouration, stubborn stains or to remove a superficial scratch, we recommend lightly sanding the entire surface first. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain. Ensure the surface is thoroughly clean and dry before applying oil. Apply evenly, removing excess product to avoid spots after drying.
Osmo liquid wax cleaner
Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner is specially designed for the occasional refresh and general maintenance of indoor oak furniture. Derived from natural vegetable waxes, it cleans and regenerates the character of the wood, while reinforcing the original protective coating. Please note, Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner is no guarantee against stains. We always recommend spills be wiped away immediately.
General care & maintenance tips
01. Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
02. To prevent colour differences, do not place furniture or accessories in direct sunlight, and move objects placed on the furniture from time to time. Open your extendable table the first three weeks after installing and afterwards on a regular basis.
03. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Do not place furniture or accessories near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
04. To prevent staining,remove any spills immediately.
05. When cleaning the surface, always work in the direction of the wood grain.
06. Use place mats and/or coasters to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
07. Do not drag the furniture along the floor; always lift the furniture when moving.
08. Always ensure water solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it may leave permanent marks. For items that feature rubber glides, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners on floors they are in direct contact with.
09. Indoor products are not intended for outdoor use. An outdoor product will always indicate so in its name.
10. Last but not least, we always recommend carefully reading the care instructions specific to your item.
Ethnicraft | Natural teak furniture
Ethnicraft's teak range comes without any finish or protective treatment. The wood is merely polished, allowing the natural oils to rise to the surface. The high density of teak has the advantage that stains do not penetrate the wood as easily. Even with these characteristics, spills should be removed immediately.
Click here to watch a video on removing marks from your natural teak furniture
Preventive treatment
To protect the wood from the start, apply a protective coating. We recommend Occulto Oil (9911). This will seal the pores of the timber and create a natural protection. Stains and marks should still be removed immediately.
Regular care
For regular dusting, use a dry cloth. For cleaning or in case of a spill, use a damp cloth and natural soap. Wipe in the direction of the grain. Do not use soap containing detergent or other chemicals. Dry with a soft, clean cloth to prevent spotting.
We always recommend protecting surfaces with coasters, mousepads, or placemats, as extreme and repetitive daily use or heat can damage the finish.
Always move objects such as flowerpots, vases, etc. from time to time, and ensure any excess water or dampness is wiped dry immediately to prevent marking the surface.
Thorough care
To remove stubborn stains or superficial scratches, extrafine sandpaper can be used. Make sure you always rub in the direction of the wood grain.
Metal structure
Dust regularly using a soft dry cloth.
For a more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acid, bleach or chlorine cleaners on metal surfaces.
Do not drag the furniture along the floor, as it might damage the protective coating, cause rusting or leave permanent marks on the floor.
Always lift the furniture when moving it from place to place.
Recommended product
Occulto oil
To further preserve indoor teak items, apply a protective barrier before use. Oculto oil will seal the pores of the wood to enhance the natural protection. Please note that stains and marks should still be removed immediately.
General care & maintenance tips
01. Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
02. To prevent colour differences, do not place furniture or accessories in direct sunlight, and move objects placed on the furniture from time to time. Open your extendable table the first three weeks after installing and afterwards on a regular basis.
03. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Do not place furniture or accessories near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
04. To prevent staining, remove any spills immediately.
05. When cleaning the surface, always work in the direction of the wood grain.
06. Use place mats and/or coasters to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
07. Do not drag the furniture along the floor; always lift the furniture when moving.
08. Always ensure water solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it may leave permanent marks. For items that feature rubber glides, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners on floors they are in direct contact with.
09. Indoor products are not intended for outdoor use. An outdoor product will always indicate so in its name.
10. Last but not least, we always recommend carefully reading the care instructions specific to your item.
Ethnicraft | Varnished & waxed teak
The carved parts of the Tabwa collection are varnished and, to achieve its signature shine, a wax is applied. This finish gives the furniture its desired colour and offers a good protection against stains. Even though with this extensive treatment, spills should be removed immediately.
Preventive treatment
Dust the surface first. Apply dark brown liquid beeswax using a soft cloth or a furniture brush. Allow to dry. Buff with a clean soft cloth and/or furniture brush. Repeat until the desired level of shine is reached.
Regular care
For regular dusting, use a dry cloth. For cleaning or in case of a spill, use a damp cloth and natural soap. Wipe in the direction of the grain. Do not use soap containing detergent or other chemicals. Dry with a soft clean cloth to prevent spotting.
We always recommend protecting surfaces with coasters, mousepads or placemats, as extreme and repetitive daily use or heat can damage the finish.
Always move objects such as flowerpots, vases, etc. from time to time, and ensure any excess water or dampness is wiped dry immediately to prevent marking the surface.
Metal structure
Dust regularly using a soft dry cloth.
For a more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acid, bleach or chlorine cleaners on metal surfaces.
Do not drag the furniture along the floor, as it might damage the protective coating, cause rusting or leave permanent marks on the floor.
Always lift the furniture when moving it from place to place.
General care & maintenance tips
01. Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
02. To prevent colour differences, do not place furniture or accessories in direct sunlight, and move objects placed on the furniture from time to time. Open your extendable table the first three weeks after installing and afterwards on a regular basis.
03. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Do not place furniture or accessories near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
04. To prevent staining, remove any spills immediately.
05. When cleaning the surface, always work in the direction of the wood grain.
06. Use place mats and/or coasters to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
07. Do not drag the furniture along the floor; always lift the furniture when moving.
08. Always ensure water solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it may leave permanent marks. For items that feature rubber glides, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners on floors they are in direct contact with.
09. Indoor products are not intended for outdoor use. An outdoor product will always indicate so in its name.
10. Last but not least, we always recommend carefully reading the care instructions specific to your item.
Ethnicraft | Upholstered furniture fabrics
Discover how to maintain upholstered furniture, keeping the fabric in the best possible condition.
Click here to watch a video on how to use Textile Cleaner & Protector (Indoor - Outdoor)
Washing & dry cleaning
Do not wash upholstered items unless clearly indicated on the label attached. Removing the covers to machine or hand wash (even at a low temperature) may lighten the colour and shrink the fabric. Some items have an anti-stain treatment applied to the textile, if this is dry cleaned, the process will affect the anti-stain performance. Always pay close attention to the care symbols on the affixed label before dry cleaning.
Anti-stain treated fabrics
To repel liquids and dirt, some items have a stain resistant treatment applied to the textile. If the treated fabric is dry cleaned or washed, the process will affect the anti-stain performance. Always pay close attention to the care symbols on the affixed label before dry cleaning or washing.
Anti-stain protection naturally diminishes over time and may need to be refreshed occasionally. Depending on the surface wear, this could be required as frequently as once per year for interior items. To ensure the anti-stain treatment properties remain effective, or to add protection to non-treated textiles, we recommend using Ethnicraft Fabric Protector.
Any spills or stains should be treated immediately. We recommend using Ethnicraft Textile Cleaner followed by the Ethnicraft Fabric Protector. Always follow the instructions provided on the bottle.
Regular care
If pilling should occur, don’t be alarmed. It’s a result of excess fibre coming off the fabric or from external sources. This is not a defect but a characteristic of many upholstered fabrics and textiles. To remove pilling, use an antipilling machine.
Avoid placing the item in direct sunlight.
For dusting or removing crumbs take a clean cloth or soft brush and wipe down upholstery. Do not rub.
We do not recommend vacuuming. If you do so, use the lowest suction and a soft upholstery attachment.
Treat spills immediately. Blot up as much of the spill as possible with a clean, dry, white cloth. Do not rub.
In case of a stain, use a clean, slightly damp white cloth, blotting from the outer edge to the centre of the stain. Do not use any chemical products on your upholstery.
Base structure
Dust regularly using a soft dry cloth.
For a more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acid, bleach or chlorine cleaners on metal surfaces.
Do not drag the furniture along the floor, as it might damage the protective coating, cause rusting or leave permanent marks on the floor.
Always lift the furniture when moving them from place to place.
General care & maintenance tips
01. Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
02. To prevent colour differences: do not place your furniture in direct sunlight.
03. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Do not place furniture or accessories near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
04. To prevent staining, remove any spills immediately.
05. Use place mats and/or coasters to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
06. Do not drag the furniture along the floor; always lift the furniture when moving.
07. Always ensure water and solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it might leave permanent marks.
08. Always ensure water solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it may leave permanent marks. For items that feature rubber glides, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners on floors they are in direct contact with.
09. Last but not least, we always recommend carefully reading the care instructions specific to your item.
Ethnicraft | Upholstered furniture leather
Many of the hides used are left in their purest form. This means there is little or no surface treatment, allowing for the unique natural beauty of each hide to come through. It also means these pure leathers are incredibly soft to touch and will remain supple as it has not endured extra processing treatments which can make the hide stiff.
Our leather can be prone to marks and require delicate care to keep it in optimal condition. Over time, it will naturally take on a patina or soft sheen. This is the natural character brought out by regular and unique surface exposure.
Washing & cleaning
The upholstery of our leather chairs and sofas should not be washed or dry cleaned.
For cleaning and care, use the Ethnicraft Leather Care Kit. Follow the directions of use for the Natural Cleaner and Leather Care & Protect formulations.
We do not recommend using Ethnicraft Natural Cleaner or Care & Protect on sanded or brushed leathers such as Nubuck or suede.
Always test colour fastness and hide resistance on a small and inconspicuous area. Compare once dry.
Regular care
To avoid discolouration do not place the leather in direct sunlight.
Frequently wipe the leather down with a clean, dry cloth.
Treat spills immediately. Blot up as much of the spill as possible with a clean, dry, white cloth. Do not rub.
In case of a stain, use a clean, slightly damp white cloth, blotting from the outer edge to the centre of the stain. Do not use any chemicals or products not designed for leather.
Use a towel to evenly dry the leather. Do not use a hairdryer as it is likely to dehydrate the leather.
Metal structure
Dust regularly using a soft dry cloth.
For a more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acid, bleach or chlorine cleaners on metal surfaces.
Do not drag the furniture along the floor, as it might damage the protective coating, cause rusting or leave permanent marks on the floor.
Always lift the furniture when moving it from place to place.
General care & maintenance tips
01. Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
02. To prevent colour differences, do not place your furniture in direct sunlight.
03. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: Do not place furniture or accessories near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
04. To prevent staining, remove any spills immediately.
05. Use place mats and/or coasters to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
06. Do not drag the furniture along the floor; always lift the furniture when moving.
07. Always ensure water solutions used to clean the floor do not come into contact with the furniture’s base, as it may leave permanent marks. For items that feature rubber glides, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners on floors they are in direct contact with.
08. Indoor products are not intended for outdoor use. An outdoor product will always indicate so in its name.
09. Last but not least, we always recommend carefully reading the care instructions specific to your item.
Ethnicraft | Mirrors
The cleaning and maintenance of glass and mirror products is very simple and inexpensive. View our recommendations to take care of Ethnicraft glass and mirror items.
Frames
Depending on the material, our frames are finished with a protective topcoat to repel common substances. However, this protective coating is not a foolproof guarantee against stains and liquids, which should always be removed immediately. To maintain your mirror frame, we recommend the following:
Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth. For more thorough cleaning, use the appropriate recommended cleaning solution for your material:
Wood: use furniture polish with a soft cloth.
Metal: use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Minerals: use a damp cloth and natural detergents.
These frames should be handled carefully, as they may get scratched when using aggressive cleaning agents. Avoid direct contact with abrasive/high-acidity products.
Wall-mounted installation
We recommend:
Choosing a sturdy fixing suitable for the wall (drywall, plaster or brick). Test before hanging the product.
Before drilling into the wall, tape an open envelope below the spot to catch the dust.
General care & maintenance tips
01. The best and safest cleaner for a mirror is clear, warm water on a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensure all water is squeezed from the cloth before wiping. Dry the mirror immediately with a dry lint-free cloth.
02. Don’t use harsh cleaners for mirror clean up after installation. Both acid and alkali substances can damage the front surface, edges, or backing of the mirror. Abrasive cleaners should never be used on any mirror surface.
03. Don’t spray cleaners directly on the mirror. Instead, apply a small amount of cleaner directly onto a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the mirror. This will help prevent the cleaner from contacting the edges of the mirror and damaging them.
04. Don’t use commercial mirror cleaners that contain ammonia or vinegar.
05. Do use soft, lint and grit-free cloths to clean a mirror. This reduces the chances of scratching.
06. Care should always be taken to ensure all joints and edges are dry so that no liquid or cleaner comes into contact with the mirror’s edges and backing.
07. These products are intended for indoor use only.
Ethnicraft | Care & Maintenance videos
Click here to browse Ethnicraft's collection of helpful Care & Maintenance videos
Gus* Modern | Fabric furniture
For regular maintenance and to maintain the nap of the fabric, we recommend vacuuming your sofa regularly.
For stain removal guidelines, please contact us here or on 08 8274 1125 and one of our staff will be able to assist.
Always test in an inconspicuous area first before using any soap product.
For thorough cleaning, we recommend professional dry cleaning or a professional in-home upholstery cleaning service.
Protect your furniture from direct sunlight, as this may cause the fabric to fade unevenly over time.
NOTE: Certain clothing dyes, particularly those used in new denim, have a tendency to transfer onto fabrics, vinyls and leather. Gus* cannot predict how these dyes will behave, and as a result we cannot warranty against the resulting transfer.
Gus* Modern | Leather furniture
All Gus* leather is easily maintained without polishes, preservers or leather soaps, however, it is possible to use a non-toxic leather conditioner if you prefer.
For routine maintenance, simply dust or vacuum to keep furniture looking good.
Protect your furniture from direct sunlight, as this may cause the leather to fade unevenly.
Dab spills immediately with a soft cloth dampened in distilled water.
Most surface marks will fade over time if you rub them with your fingers. Natural oils are released to help the marks disappear. All leather will wear over time, giving your piece its own unique character.
NOTE: Certain clothing dyes, particularly those used in new denim, have a tendency to transfer onto fabrics, vinyls and leather. Gus* cannot predict how these dyes will behave, and as a result we cannot warranty against the resulting transfer.
Gus* Modern | Scotchguarding
Most fabrics in the Gus* Collection are inherently stain resistant and therefore do not require a protective coating (i.e. Scotchguarding). In some instances, applying such a coating can affect the appearance and/or "nap" of the fabric. Applying such a coating will void the fabric warranty. Should you decide to have a protective coating applied, there are third party companies that offer this service who then offer their own warranty on the fabric.
GlobeWest | Product care
Due to the extent of care and maintenance information available, please visit GlobeWest's own website