Caring for your Vintage Furniture
With the right care, your Mid Century furniture should continue to be useful and beautiful for many years to come. Below are some of our top tips to help you maintain your vintage items. If you have any other questions, please get in touch via our Contact page
Spills
Clean up any spills as soon as they occur by carefully removing any solid matter and blotting liquid with a clean, absorbent towel. Use a moistened, clean cloth to remove any marks and do not over-rub in one area to avoid colour changes. Do not put cups or plant pots directly onto furniture to avoid water marks.
Sun
Avoid keeping furniture in direct sunlight where possible. If you keep ornaments, table cloths or other items on the top of furniture, move them regularly to avoid patchy sun fading.
Maintenance
Keep furniture dust free and clean by wiping gently with a moistened, clean cloth. Hydrate wood such as teak by applying a quality teak oil now and again, before buffing with a clean, lint free cloth. Protect wooden furniture by using a quality furniture wax occasionally, letting it dry for a few moments before buffing to a shine. Avoid using furniture polish with silicone as this can create a residue over time.
Restoring
If you have furniture with marks, stains or scratches you may be able to improve it through restoration. However be careful! Much Mid Century vintage furniture may look like solid wood but is actually a thin veneer of teak, rosewood or other decorative finish over another material. This could be another solid wood such as afromosia, or a composite material such as chipboard. It's very easy to accidentally go through the veneer, especially with power tools such as electric sanders. If you are using chemicals such as paint strippers, follow the manufacturer's safety guidance and use appropriate protective equipment, such as a mask and gloves.