Furniture Care & Maintenance Guide
Quality furniture is an investment. With proper care, a well-made sofa, bed, or dining set can last 15+ years. Here's how to maintain every type of furniture in your home.
Wood Furniture Care
- Dust weekly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth — never use wet cloths on untreated wood
- Avoid direct sunlight — UV rays fade and crack timber over time
- Use coasters and placemats to prevent water rings and heat damage
- Polish every 3-6 months with a quality beeswax or furniture polish
- Control humidity — NZ homes can get damp. A dehumidifier protects wood furniture from swelling.
Fabric Upholstery Care
- Vacuum weekly with an upholstery attachment to remove dust and crumbs
- Blot spills immediately — never rub, as this pushes the stain deeper
- Rotate cushions monthly to ensure even wear
- Professional cleaning every 12-18 months for high-use sofas
- Keep pets off where possible — pet claws can snag fabric and pet dander embeds odour
Leather Care
- Wipe with a damp cloth weekly — then dry immediately
- Apply leather conditioner every 6 months to prevent cracking
- Keep at least 30cm from heat sources (heaters, radiators, fireplaces)
- Avoid harsh chemicals — use only leather-specific cleaners
Mattress Care
- Rotate head-to-toe every 3 months (don't flip if it's a pillow-top)
- Use a washable mattress protector — the best $30 investment you'll make
- Vacuum the surface monthly to remove dust mites
- Air it out — leave the bed unmade for 30 minutes each morning to reduce moisture
When to Repair vs Replace
Before replacing furniture, consider repair. Furniture World offers professional upholstery repair services. A sagging sofa can often be restored with new cushion foam and tightened webbing — at a fraction of the cost of replacement.
Need specific advice? Call our team at 09 873 6364 or visit our Henderson showroom at 406 Great North Road. We're happy to help you protect your furniture investment.