How to Care For and Maintain Your Furniture

From early-morning coffee to late-night movies, every moment adds a little more life to the furniture pieces around you. But just like any long-term relationship, furniture needs care to keep it looking and feeling its best.

Here’s how to clean, protect, and maintain your favourite pieces so they stay beautiful, sturdy, and comfortable for years to come.

Routine Cleaning and Dusting

Consistent upkeep keeps your furniture looking sharp and extends its lifespan. Different materials need different attention:

• Leather: Wipe down with a damp cloth, then condition a few times a year to keep it soft and prevent cracking (a must in Calgary’s dry winters).

• Upholstery: Vacuum weekly using a brush attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair. If you spill something, spot-clean right away with a fabric-safe cleaner before it sets.

• Wood: Dust with a soft, lint-free cloth. Skip the harsh sprays; warm water and mild soap are usually enough to lift grime without damaging the finish.

Pro tip: Always test cleaners on a hidden spot first, as every fabric or finish reacts differently.

Scratch and Minor Damage Repair

Scratches and scuffs happen, but they don’t have to stay. Small repairs can restore your furniture’s finish and keep it looking fresh:

• Wood: Hide light marks with wax sticks or touch-up markers. For deeper damage, gently sand and refinish the area or call in a professional refinisher to handle it safely.

• Leather: Rub a dab of conditioner over light scratches, or use a repair kit for a more seamless fix.

• Fabric: For stains, blot (don’t rub) immediately. A gentle cleaner that matches your fabric type often does the trick.

If the damage goes beyond surface level, don’t DIY it. A quick professional touch-up can preserve your furniture’s character without risking more harm.

Seasonal Furniture Care

Calgary’s climate can be tough on furniture with its dry air, UV exposure, and humidity changes all taking their toll. But with a few seasonal adjustments, you can keep your furniture protected all year long:

• Winter: Run a humidifier to keep wood from cracking or shrinking

• Summer: Use a dehumidifier to prevent swelling or stickiness

• Sunlight: Block direct rays with curtains or UV window film to protect colours and finishes from fading

• Outdoor furniture: Clean and cover patio pieces before storing them for the season to prevent moisture buildup and extend their life

• Cushions: Rotate or flip them every few months to keep padding even and prevent one-sided wear

Upholstery Upkeep

Upholstery adds comfort and personality to a space, but it also collects dust, oils, and wear faster than you might expect. Keep it fresh with consistent care:

• Pillows and cushions: Fluff regularly to maintain shape and comfort

• Fabric: Blot spills fast, then spot-clean gently. For a full refresh, have it professionally cleaned once a year to restore texture and lift deep dirt

• Leather: Condition twice a year to protect against Calgary’s dry air and keep that soft, rich feel intact

• Slipcovers: Follow label instructions for washing or dry cleaning. Rotate occasionally to even out sun exposure and fading

Protecting Your Furniture Investment

Here are more tips on how to protect your investment and avoid costly replacements later:

• Avoid overloading: Keep drawers and shelves light to prevent loosening or warping

• Use furniture pads: Protect hardwood floors and make cleaning days easier

• Add coasters and mats: Stop rings, heat marks, and water stains before they start

• Inspect regularly: Tighten screws and joints to stop wobbles from turning into cracks

• Watch for humidity shifts: Extreme dry air or moisture can cause wood to swell, shrink, or split. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to keep conditions stable year-round

• Rearrange occasionally: Shifting your layout even slightly reduces uneven sun exposure, wear, and floor dents from heavy pieces

• Handle with care: When moving furniture, lift, don’t drag, to protect your flooring and the frame from unnecessary strain

Bring Long-Lasting Style Home with FD Furniture

Your furniture should tell a story that lasts. With consistent care, each piece keeps its beauty, comfort, and charm year after year.

At FD Furniture, we design with real life in mind. Durable, stylish, and made for Calgary homes, our pieces easily handle the seasons and the moments that come with them.

Visit our Calgary showroom or shop online to explore furniture that stands the test of time in quality, comfort, and style.

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