Prolonging the Life of Your Teak Tales Furniture
Protection Against the Elements:
Wood is a living material, full of character and stories. As such, it interacts with its environment. To preserve its beauty, rotate your ornaments and lamps to ensure even exposure to light, avoiding noticeable color differences. Keep dining tables extended for the first few months to prevent uneven shading. Shield your furniture from direct heat, air conditioning, and humidity changes, especially steam, to maintain its integrity.
Sunlight can be both a friend and foe to wood—while it enhances its rich hues, prolonged exposure can cause fading. Protect your furniture from strong sunlight to keep it looking vibrant. Always use insulated mats for hot dishes, cups, or plates to avoid damage.
Handling Your Furniture:
Treat your furniture with the same care as a cherished heirloom. Lift it carefully instead of dragging it to avoid stressing the joints. Ensure proper air circulation by leaving a gap behind wardrobes, chests, and units. Be mindful of not overloading glass shelves or straining hinges.
Dining chairs are designed for comfort, not rocking. Rocking can strain their joints. Always follow fitting instructions meticulously and keep them for future reference. Small tables are perfect for displaying items but not for sitting or standing on. Uneven floors can make doors appear misaligned—compensate for this by adjusting hinges or leveling the item as needed.
Protection from Daily Use:
Cherish your furniture by protecting it from sharp objects, which can leave marks. Always use a protective mat when writing to safeguard the surface. In case of stains, scratches, or other damage, seek professional help for restoration. We’re here to assist and advise you.
Use felt under-cloths and place mats to protect wood surfaces from heavy items and drag marks. Avoid sharp objects and zips on upholstered furniture to prevent snags. Mats are recommended for items with rubber feet to prevent marking.
General Cleaning and Maintenance Tips:
To keep your furniture looking its best, regular dusting with a soft cloth following the grain is key. Occasionally, use a slightly damp cloth and dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid products containing bleach. For plain wood pieces, regular waxing (every 2-3 months for tables and every 6 months for other items) maintains their luster.
Avoid silicone-based polishes, as they can create a film altering the furniture’s appearance. Steer clear of polishes with alcohol, ammonia, or acids. Metal polish isn’t necessary as handles have a protective lacquer.
For glass or mirrored panels, use non-solvent-based cleaners and soft cloths, avoiding wooden or painted sections. Blot spills immediately—do not rub. Remove finger marks with a clean, slightly damp cloth. If your furniture has an oiled finish, a coat of generic Danish Oil can revitalize it.
Caring for Upholstery:
Maintaining the beauty of your fabrics and soft furnishings ensures longevity. Regular vacuuming on a low setting with a soft brush significantly extends their life. Treat stains and spills immediately—blot, don’t rub, working from the edge inward.
Linen fabrics, whether pure or blended, are prone to shrinkage. We recommend specialist dry cleaning for these. Velvet fabrics naturally show movement and pile displacement, especially in high-use areas. Regularly turn cushions and vacuum with appropriate attachments. Avoid liquid spills on velvet to prevent staining.
For any uncertainties, consult a specialist dry cleaner or reach out to us for advice. Thank you for choosing Teak Tales Furniture—we wish you many joyful years with your bespoke pieces.