Furniture Care
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How to Care for Your Furniture from James Workshop?
At James Workshop, our furniture is crafted to last—combining the timeless appeal of mid-century modern design with industrial strength. Our pieces, made from durable materials like redwood pine, oak, and steel, bring character and charm to your home or office. To ensure your furniture remains as beautiful and functional as the day you received it, proper care is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for maintaining your James Workshop furniture, helping you protect your investment for years to come.
1. Caring for Wood Surfaces
Dust Regularly
Wood surfaces, whether they’re made from redwood pine or oak, benefit from regular dusting. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dust particles. This prevents buildup and keeps the wood looking vibrant.
Use a Mild Cleaner
For occasional cleaning, a mild soap and water solution works well. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently wipe the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the wood’s finish. After cleaning, make sure to dry the surface immediately with a clean cloth.
Protect Against Spills
Wood can absorb liquids quickly, leading to staining or warping. Always use coasters, placemats, or tablecloths to protect surfaces from spills, especially with drinks or hot items. If a spill occurs, wipe it up promptly with a soft cloth.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the wood to fade or discolour over time. If possible, position your furniture out of direct sunlight, or use curtains or blinds to shield it. Rotating your furniture or décor items like vases or books can also help prevent uneven fading.
Moisturize with Wood Polish or Oil
Depending on the finish of your furniture, applying a wood polish or oil can help maintain its luster. Be sure to check whether the product is safe for your type of wood. For example, furniture with a natural or oil finish can benefit from a specialised wood oil, like Osmo Oil, which nourishes and protects the wood from the inside out.
2. Maintaining Steel Legs and Frames
Wipe Down Regularly
Our steel frames and legs, like the black steel hairpin legs featured on many of our designs, are sturdy and built to withstand wear and tear. To keep them looking sharp, wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. For more stubborn marks, use a mild detergent diluted in water.
Prevent Rust
Though our steel is coated to prevent rust, it's important to avoid moisture build-up. If your furniture is placed in a humid area or near a window, ensure it stays dry. If rust appears, you can gently remove it with fine steel wool or a rust remover. Be sure to reapply a protective coating afterward.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Like wood, steel can be damaged by abrasive chemicals. Stick to mild cleaning solutions and avoid anything that contains harsh acids or solvents, which can erode the finish or cause discolouration.
3. General Care Tips
Use Protective Pads
For furniture that sits on hard flooring, such as desks or dining tables, add protective felt pads under the legs. This prevents scratches on both the furniture and the floor, especially when moving pieces.
Tighten Loose Hardware
Over time, screws and bolts in your furniture may loosen with daily use. Periodically check for loose hardware and tighten them as needed to maintain stability and prolong the life of your furniture.
Avoid Dragging Furniture
When moving furniture, always lift rather than drag it. Dragging can cause damage to both the legs and the surface underneath, especially if your piece has steel hairpin legs or A-frame legs. Ask for help if needed, or use furniture sliders to protect both your furniture and flooring.
4. Long-Term Protection and Care
To extend the life of your furniture, consider periodic deep cleaning and refinishing, especially for pieces that get heavy use, like dining tables or desks. Applying a protective finish like Osmo Oil to wooden surfaces can help restore shine and protect against future wear. For steel components, reapplying a protective coating can help prevent corrosion and maintain the material's sleek appearance.
At James Workshop, we take pride in the craftsmanship of every piece we create. With a little regular care, your wood and steel furniture will remain a centre piece in your home for many years. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your furniture looking as good as the day it arrived, ensuring it continues to bring style, function, and durability to your space.
Explore our range of handcrafted mid-century modern industrial furniture on James Workshop, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about caring for your pieces!