When you buy furniture, you want it to last, but it can become damaged and worn out from daily use, as well as other factors that you may not have considered. Follow these tips to prevent damage.
Tips for Buying Furniture
Before you purchase new furniture, think about your family’s lifestyle so you can choose pieces made from appropriate materials. If you have young kids and pets that like to sleep on furniture, look for durable materials that are easy to care for. Ask a salesperson for specific information on how to protect, maintain and clean furniture before you buy it.
How to Keep Furniture Clean
If possible, don’t let anyone eat in the living room. If you have young kids who like to eat snacks while watching TV, or if you frequently have guests over, use coasters, doilies, placemats or a tablecloth on the living room table and a machine-washable slipcover on the couch. Never put dishes with hot food or any glasses containing beverages directly on a wood table.
You can also limit the types of foods and beverages you permit in the living room. For example, don’t allow people to eat or drink things that can leave tough stains, such as pasta with tomato sauce or red wine.
Dusting often can remove particles from wood furniture and prevent scratches. If you need to remove a stain from any type of furniture, check the label to make sure that the cleaner is appropriate for the type of material the furniture is made of. Use a small amount of cleaner in an inconspicuous place to make sure it doesn’t damage the furniture or cause discoloration before you use it in a larger, more noticeable area.
If a stain won’t come out, don’t scrub too much because that can damage the furniture’s finish. You may need to try a different type of cleaner. If you polish wood furniture, don’t use too much product because it can leave a buildup.
How to Protect Furniture From the Environment
Regular exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause furniture to fade and change colors. Window coverings may help, but they won’t block out all of the sun’s UV rays. Window film may be a better solution. You can also change the positions of furniture from time to time so that it gets exposed to sunlight evenly on all sides. If you have expensive wood furniture, don’t put it near a window or fireplace because sunlight and heat can cause damage.
The temperature and amount of humidity in the house can affect wood furniture and may cause it to become warped and cracked. Keep the interior temperature and humidity levels as consistent as possible.
Protect Your Investment
New furniture can be expensive. If you have antique furniture, it may have both financial and sentimental value. Taking precautions on a regular basis can prevent damage and extend the life of your furniture.
