Fine Upholstery Care

There are seemingly endless choices of fabrics and leathers available for your fine furniture. All fabrics will wear better and retain their beauty longer with proper care. Furniture manufacturers receive no guarantee on durability from the fabric mills, and as a result, do not offer guarantees to the retailer or consumer. “Satisfactory wear” is variable, so it is important for you to consider how and where your furniture will be used. Colorfastness is variable depending on environmental factors such as exposure to light, (avoid too much sunlight), heat, any substance that comes in contact, and household fumes. As is consistent with industry standards, there is no warranty against fading or wear.

Every upholstery fabric and leather is assigned a specific “grade” which reflects its inherent cost. This grade has nothing to do with durability and serviceability. In fact, some of the most expensive fabrics are also the most delicate, such as a fine silk. In general, the construction of the fabric will be the most telling of its performance. In general the tighter the weave, the longer the wear.

Materials

Velvets

Velvets one of the most luxurious fabrics which has a softness and luster created by the thick pile of short, erect threads. Crush marks, create a mottled shading of the fabric, resulting from normal use and changes in humidity. If preferred, these marks may be partially subdued by brushing or steaming. However, such shading is generally considered a desirable expression of the fabric’s comfort and elegance & charm.

Silks and Satins

Silks and Satins have a tendency to crush and openly admit the existence of seam lines or pressure wrinkles. Sleeked or lumed with an irregular slub weave, they remain a symbol of prestige and quality when used on any piece of fine furniture.

Texture and Tweeds

Texture and Tweeds possess a more casual look, and tend to “give” more than tightly woven materials. Continued use emphasizes the comfortable, cozy effect they give to furniture.

Haitian Cotton

Haitian Cotton has a natural tendency to shed fibers when new. Throughout normal use, however, this shedding will conclude, and create a comfortable appearance. Due to the nature of the fabric we do not recommend Haitian cotton for furniture that will receive extreme use, or where excessive soiling may occur, (i.e., family rooms, dens, heavy smokers). Because of the methods that are required to clean Haitian cotton, we suggest it be done by a qualified professional, and tested in inconspicuous areas before a complete cleaning is attempted. Please be aware that the cost of cleaning this material can have a higher pricing level to service.

Olefin

Olefin is generally a very durable man-made fiber, but overall satisfaction depends upon the tightness of the weave. The more loosely woven variety has a tendency to stretch and pucker with use. Caution must be exercised when using certain cleaning agents on these fabrics as the latex backing can be damaged or may deteriorate.

Viscose/Rayon

Viscose/Rayon is made from wood chip fibers and is one of the leading fabrics for upholstered furniture, especially when it is blended with other fabrics. Rayon was originally developed to serve as an alternative to silk, because it offers a similar look and feel. Rayon fabrics are delicate yet durable and ideal for accent chairs, but may prove too delicate for a sofa that would get heavy use.

Polyester

Polyester is a strong synthetic fiber that stands alone, often times as an outdoor fabric due to its mildew resistance and waterproof capabilities. Indoors, you often see polyester blended with other fabrics, such as cotton, resulting in a fabric that retains dyes for a vibrant appearance.

Nylon

Nylon is often blended with other fabrics to increase durability, is easy to clean, making it a great choice for frequently used upholstery.The downside of nylon is that it does pill, and has a tendency to fade.

Chenille

Chenille fabrics, originally from France, have been produced since the 18th century. Short lengths of fabric are wrapped around a core of yarn, which gives the fabric its characteristic pile or tufted look. Chenille is often very loose and can have a tendency to shift on upholstered furniture.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a material made from petrochemicals which include plasticizers that make the product soft and pliable, much like leather. Unfortunately, these plasticizers tend to react with body oils, hair tonics, etc. This chemical reaction may cause hardening and splitting in vinyl, making it essential that the material be properly cared for and cleaned regularly. Spills on vinyl should be removed immediately with a damp cloth. If allowed to set, they are often not removable. Solvent cleaners should never be used.

Leather

Leather comes to your home naturally. The markings on each hide, (everything from battle scars to bramble nicks), represent the life history of the animal. They are unmistakable signs of real leather that no other material can imitate. We like to call the markings, the “Signs of Life”. They give leather character and personality, and distinguish it from all other upholstered materials. Leather, like fine silver, improves with age as it develops a lovely patina. Avoid direct sunlight as any fine leather can fade.

Pure Aniline Leather

Pure Aniline Leather has been dyed all the way through with aniline dyes with no additional coloring. The unique surface characteristics will be visible and is less resistant to soiling. This is also referred to as naked aniline, naked leather or full aniline.

Semi-Aniline Leather

Semi-Aniline Leather has been aniline dyed, then slightly pigmented. This type of leather ensures color consistency while being more stain and spill resistant than a Pure Aniline Leather.

Pull-up Leather

Pull-up Leather has been treated with oils, waxes and dyes and will show a natural appearance which lightens in color when stretched and has been used over time.

Protected Leather

Protected Leather has a polymer surface coating containing pigments, making this the most durable type of leather. You often see this type of leather in car upholstery in addition to fine upholstery.

Embossed Leather

Embossed Leather is where a pattern is applied by extreme pressure in a press to provide a unique design.

Suede Leather

Suede Leather is finished by buffing the flesh side to produce a nap.

Suggested Care of Upholstered Fabrics

General Upholstery

Vacuum or brush dust and loose dirt from upholstered furniture regularly, paying special attention to cushions, crevices, and other dry “soil traps”. Dust and gritty particles can become embedded in upholstery fabrics causing abrasive action on thread and fibers. Fluff and turn loose cushions regularly for even wear and exposure, and to control seam slippage. Zippers on cushions are for manufacturing convenience only. Do not remove covers for cleaning.

Vinyl

This material requires proper care for maximum longevity. It is recommended that the areas which come in contact with body and hair oils be washed at least once monthly with soap and warm water. Wash textured vinyl with a damp, soapy brush, and smooth vinyl with a damp, soapy cloth. Avoid harsh soaps and abrasive cleaners. Saddle soap may be used to help soften and restore an area which has been badly affected.

Leather

An occasional dusting and the removal of debris on soiled areas with simple mild soap and water is all that is necessary for leather housekeeping problems. No special treatment such as oils, wax, saddle soap or other expensive products are necessary. Do not use detergents, chemicals, or polishes. Scuff marks, should they occur, can be touched up readily with a felt-tip marker. Some of the newer leathers do not have a protective coating and may not be washable with soap and water. While these have the advantages of natural appearances and softness, they will show more change in appearance over the years. These untreated leathers are most frequently used in light-use situations. If you are unsure, ask your designer so that the leather you have selected matches the intended use of the piece. Leather conditioner may be used if need to revitalize the leather.

Fabric Cleaning Codes

These fabric cleaning codes are standard in the home furnishing industry. Most fabrics are labeled with cleaning instructions for quick reference. If not, check with your designer who can obtain this information. Please select a cleaner carefully as we cannot control damage caused by another firm. When spills occur on upholstered furniture, blotting immediately with a clean absorbent white towel, never rubbing the spot.

Code “S” Cleaning Instructions

“Professional Cleaning” is recommended. Instruct them to clean this fabric with pure solvents, and caution them that using water-based or detergent-based cleaners may cause water stains or excessive shrinking. The water stains may become permanent and impervious to solvent cleaning agents. However, to prevent surface soil, it is recommended that you vacuum or brush lightly to remove dust and grime.

Code “W” Cleaning Instructions

“Professional Cleaning” is recommended. Instruct them to clean this fabric with water-based agents or foam to remove overall soil, and caution them that many cleaning agents are harmful to the color and life of a fabric. To prevent surface soil, it is recommended that you brush lighting or vacuum frequently to remove dirt and grime.

Code “SW” Cleaning Instructions

“Professional Cleaning” is recommended. Instruct them to clean this fabric with water-based cleaning agents, foam, or pure solvents. To prevent over-all soil, it is recommend that you vacuum frequently and brush lightly.

Code “X” Cleaning Instructions

It is recommended that you clean this fabric “only” by light brushing or vacuuming to prevent accumulation of dust or grime. CAUTION: Water-based foam or solvent-based cleaning agents of any kind may cause fading, excessive shrinking, or in the case of velvets, pile disturbance.

UFAC Fire Retardant

Upholstered furniture that is made in accordance with UFAC (Upholstered Furniture Action Council) certifies that the cover fabric and filling material are engineered to reduce, but not necessarily eliminate, ignition by a burning cigarette. Keep your family and furniture safe from fires caused by careless smoking, and other heat or fire sources. Even with modern UFAC-recommended materials and methods, smoldering cigarettes and other forms of heat or fire sources can cause upholstery fires.

Fabric Pilling

Fabric pilling is a normal sign of use and is not considered a defect in the fabric. Pilling is caused by extra fibers coming to the surface similar to what you see in sweaters and carpet. Simply remove the pills with a furniture or sweater shaver. Over time, the pilling will diminish and ultimately stop.

Cushions

It is not uncommon for new cushions to feel slightly firmer than our floor samples. It takes time for cushions to break in which will only happen with use. Toss pillows and back cushions also relax with use and may need occasional hand fluffing to return them to their original shape. Depending on the vendor, there may be options of cushion choices based on personal preference. Based on the cushion that you choose, maintenance of the cushions including rotating (when applicable) and periodic fluffing may be required. Many cushion constructions today produce plush seating characteristics, incorporating “high loft” polyester fiber wrapped around a foam core material. Textured, casual fabrics are often combined with these cushions to produce a loosely tailored “unstructured” look with uneven seams, wrinkles, and a “lived in” appearance.

Down-Filled Cushions

Do not vacuum down-filled cushions. Fluff by hand, outside if possible, to remove normal accumulation of dust. We recommend that you do not completely remove the cover from the cushions. Instead, expose one-half of the cushion placing it where it will get fresh air and is out of the direct sunlight.

Comfort Folds and Wrinkles

On rounded backs and arms, comfort folds are built in to provide the desired “give” so that the springs and fillings may respond appropriately. This suppleness is intentional and lengthens the life of the fabric.

Cushions generally do not retain an even welt and require occasional smoothing and straightening. Slight indentations or “comfort wrinkles” may be noticed at button stress points. A few light pats will diminish them.

Sofa Sleepers

CAUTION: Sleeper mechanisms are spring-loaded. Pull mattress out with a firm grip on the mechanism handle. Push all the way back in when closing the sleeper to prevent mechanism from binding. A short break-in period is usually needed before the sleeper operates effortlessly. Do not store heavy bed dressings on the mattress when the sleeper is closed. This may result in damage to the mechanism and cause uncomfortable seating. Many sleeper mechanisms feature built-in, elevated TV-viewing stop-points at the head. Do not sit on the mattress at this point. When opening or closing the sleeper, keep hands away from sides where scissors-shaped bracing may have sharp edges. Do not lubricate the mechanism - nylon bushings at hinge points prevent this need & oil may stain carpet or flooring.

Recliners

Never sit on an extended foot-rest. This may bend or break the mechanism and void the warranty. Do not allow children or pets under an opened recliner. They may risk injury caused by sharp metal parts. Lubrication of the mechanism is not required & oil may stain carpet or flooring.