Furniture, much like home decor, is constantly evolving and improving. Today's market offers a wide range of furniture options, with functions that have shifted from purely practical to a blend of aesthetics and personal expression. While the general maintenance principles for different types of furniture may be similar, the specific methods can vary significantly. In today’s market, leather, solid wood, polyester, wicker, and metal furniture are popular among various consumer groups. But what is the best way to maintain each type during the summer?
Summer Maintenance Tips for Different Materials
1. Leather Furniture Care
Summer brings high humidity and frequent rain, which can cause leather to become stiff and develop mold. This can even lead to warping of the wooden frame and fading of the leather surface. To protect your leather furniture, focus on keeping it dry and well-ventilated. After dusting, use professional leather care products like oyster sauce or lanolin to condition the surface. For mildew, apply a mildew remover and then seal it with leather oil. If you have a leather sofa, consider placing desiccants inside to keep it dry and in good condition.
2. Solid Wood Furniture Care
Even high-quality solid wood furniture undergoes drying processes before leaving the factory. However, prolonged exposure to high humidity can still cause it to swell and warp. Since solid wood furniture can be expensive, proper summer maintenance is essential. Use a specialized wood cleaner to wipe the surface, which creates a protective layer that prevents moisture from penetrating. Additionally, furniture with water-resistant paper or plastic coatings can offer extra protection against humidity.
3. Polyester Furniture Care
Polyester furniture has gained popularity in China due to its affordability and smooth finish. It comes in two main types: coated and molded. High-quality polyester furniture has a thick paint layer that resists scratches, while lower quality ones may be more prone to damage. The key to maintaining polyester furniture is regular cleaning to prevent dust buildup, as dust particles can scratch the surface. Wipe the furniture with a dry cloth first, then use a damp cloth with furniture cleaner for a thorough clean.
4. Wicker Furniture Care
Wicker furniture is favored for its natural look, flexibility, and durability. However, excessive moisture can make it soft and lose its shape, leading to sagging and deformation. During the summer, it's important to keep wicker furniture dry. If it gets wet, try to maintain its original structure and avoid bending the weave. When purchasing, opt for high-quality wicker that has been treated for mold and moisture resistance. These pieces not only look better but also last longer in humid conditions.
5. Metal Furniture Care
Metal furniture is common, but it’s vulnerable to rust in humid environments. Summer often brings spots, discoloration, and rust on metal surfaces, especially on handles and frames. To maintain metal furniture, wipe it regularly with a dry cloth. If rust appears, use a sponge or toothbrush with a rust inhibitor to remove it. Always keep metal furniture away from moisture, and if rust spots appear on wrought iron, repaint them promptly to prevent further damage.
Laizhou Chenke trading Co., Ltd. , https://www.chenkegroup.com