Furniture Care

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR FURNITURE

At Greenhaus, we use quality materials and handcrafted finishes designed to age beautifully over time. Many of our products are manufactured using solid timber and natural materials, which require appropriate care and maintenance to preserve their appearance and longevity.

Natural timber is a living material and will continue to respond to its environment throughout its lifespan. Changes in temperature, humidity, sunlight, and moisture levels may cause natural movement within the timber over time.

The following care guidelines are recommended to help protect and maintain your furniture.

Solid Timber Furniture

Each piece of timber contains unique natural characteristics including grain variation, knots, tonal differences, texture variation, and natural markings. These are part of the beauty and individuality of solid wood furniture.

Timber naturally expands and contracts in response to environmental conditions. As a result, solid timber furniture may develop:

  • fine hairline cracks;
  • slight movement at joins;
  • minor warping or bowing;
  • texture changes;
  • tonal variation;
  • surface checking.

These are natural characteristics of solid timber and do not constitute manufacturing defects.

To care for solid timber furniture:

  • Avoid direct and prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight.
  • Do not position timber furniture directly against fireplaces, heaters, or high-heat glass.
  • Avoid placing furniture directly beneath air-conditioning vents.
  • Maintain stable interior humidity and temperature conditions where possible.
  • Use curtains, blinds, shutters, or UV protection to reduce excessive heat and sunlight.
  • Clean spills immediately using a soft damp cloth.
  • Never allow liquids to remain on timber surfaces.
  • Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals, silicone sprays, ammonia-based cleaners, or abrasive products.
  • Use placemats, coasters, trivets, and protective pads where appropriate.
  • Do not place hot cookware or heated objects directly onto timber surfaces.
  • Ensure furniture is positioned on a level surface.

Relocation of solid timber furniture between coastal and inland regions may increase the likelihood of timber movement due to changes in humidity and climate conditions.

Upholstered Furniture

Upholstered furniture will naturally soften and relax with use over time.

Depending on the product and filling selected, customers may experience:

  • feather settlement;
  • foam softening;
  • fabric movement;
  • leather creasing;
  • natural stretching of upholstery materials.

These are considered normal characteristics and not defects.

To care for upholstered furniture:

  • Vacuum upholstery regularly using a soft brush attachment.
  • Rotate and fluff loose cushions frequently.
  • Avoid direct sunlight to minimise fading.
  • Clean spills immediately by blotting gently with a clean cloth.
  • Avoid rubbing stains aggressively.
  • Use approved fabric or leather cleaning products only.
  • Keep pets, sharp objects, and abrasive materials away from upholstery.

Professional cleaning is recommended where necessary.

Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture is designed to withstand exterior conditions, however ongoing exposure to the elements will naturally affect materials over time.

To maximise the lifespan of outdoor furniture:

  • Use suitable outdoor covers when furniture is not in use.
  • Avoid prolonged standing water on surfaces.
  • Clean furniture regularly to remove dirt, salt, and environmental residue.
  • Where possible, place outdoor furniture in partially sheltered areas.
  • Timber outdoor furniture may require periodic maintenance depending on exposure conditions.

Coastal environments may accelerate weathering and corrosion due to salt exposure.

General Care Recommendations

  • Furniture should always be used for its intended purpose.
  • Avoid dragging furniture across floors.
  • Lift furniture carefully when moving it.
  • Periodically check and tighten hardware where applicable.
  • Do not overload shelving, drawers, or furniture beyond intended use.
  • Keep furniture away from excessive moisture and dampness.

Natural ageing, environmental response, and gradual wear form part of the character and lifespan of handcrafted furniture.

With proper care and maintenance, quality furniture can be enjoyed for many years to come.

For additional care advice, please contact Greenhaus.