Wood
HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR SOLID WOOD FURNITURE
When properly cleaned and maintained, solid wood furniture develops an elegant and unique patina over time. Wood is a living material and is influenced by sunlight, air temperature and humidity. Solid wood furniture should not be placed too close to heat sources, such as wood stoves and radiators. In addition, exposing the furniture to direct sunlight over a longer period of time should be avoided. Both scenarios can dry out the wood and cause cracks. Lastly, it should be avoided to place solid wood furniture in rooms where humidity is fluctuating.
The surface of the wood is kept clean with a dry, soft cloth for regular cleaning. In case of light stains, use a damp, soft cloth which prior has been tightly wrung in clean boiled water and cooled down to lukewarm temperature. If the surface is particularly dirty, soap flakes can be added to the water. If liquid is spilled, it should be wiped off immediately as it can leave marks on the surface and cause damage or discolouration. Never use harsh or chemical cleaning agents. Do not use sharp or rough tools for cleaning as they can cause damage to the wood.
We recommend only applying a thin layer of oil to the furniture when necessary, depending on the use and the environment in which they are placed, for instance if the surface looks dry or dull or is visibly stained. We recommend reapplying a thin layer of oil no more than 1-2 times a year. Always use the same type of oil that the furniture was treated with originally.
WARNING: Note that sponges or cloths which have been used for applying oil can self-ignite and should be carefully disposed. The sponges or cloths can even self-ignite outside. Store them in an airtight metal, glass or plastic container with a small amount of water.
REAPPLYING OIL TO YOUR SOLID WOOD FURNITURE
Wipe the wooden surface clean with a damp, soft cloth which prior has been tightly wrung in clean boiled water and cooled down to lukewarm temperature. Soap flakes can be added to the water to remove stains. Leave the surface to dry off completely before applying the oil. If rough stains or dirt is still visible after the cleaning, gently sand the wooden surface with extra fine sandpaper with a minimum of 240 grits. Be sure to only work in the wood grain’s longitudinal direction. Remember to wipe the surface clean with a dry, soft cloth to remove dust from sanding. Pour a small amount of oil onto a clean, soft sponge or cloth and apply the oil to all wooden surfaces. Be careful that when working with the oil it should be only in the wood grain’s longitudinal direction. Let the wood absorb the oil for approximately 15 minutes. Afterwards, remove any excess oil by wiping the surface with a clean, soft cloth. Leave the furniture to dry for at least 24 hours. Be sure to let the oil dry completely before using the furniture again. If you are treating an upholstered piece of furniture, be very careful not to get oil on the upholstered areas.
WARNING: Note that sponges or cloths which have been used for applying oil can self-ignite and should be carefully disposed. The sponges or cloths can even self-ignite outside. Store them in an airtight metal, glass or plastic container with a small amount of water.
HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR PAINTED WOOD FURNITURE
Wipe the surface of the wood with a dry, soft cloth for regular cleaning. In case of light stains, use a damp cloth which prior has been tightly wrung in clean boiled water and cooled down to lukewarm temperature. If the surface is particularly dirty, you can add soap flakes to the clean water. Never use harsh or chemical cleaning agents as they can damage the painted surface. Do not use sharp or rough tools for cleaning as they can cause scratches and damage to the paint.
HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR VENEERED WOOD FURNITURE
The surface is kept clean with a dry, soft cloth. In case of light stains, use a damp, soft cloth which prior has been tightly wrung in clean boiled water and cooled down to lukewarm temperature. If the surface is particularly dirty, you can add soap flakes to the clean water. Never use harsh or chemical cleaning agents. Do not use sharp or rough tools for cleaning as they can cause damage to the wood.
Be careful not to place vases or other decoration in the same place for a longer period of time, as this may cause a difference in colour that will be difficult to correct afterwards.
We recommend only applying a thin layer of oil to the furniture when necessary, depending on the use and the environment in which they are placed, for instance if the surface looks dry or dull or is visibly stained. We recommend reapplying oil no more than 1-2 times a year. Always use the same type of oil that the furniture was treated with originally. Oil can be reapplied on veneered wood furniture in the same way as with solid wood furniture. The only difference is that we do not recommend sanding the veneered furniture.
WARNING: Note that sponges or cloths which have been used for applying oil can self-ignite and should be carefully disposed. The sponges or cloths can even self-ignite outside. Store them in an airtight metal, glass or plastic container with a small amount of water.
Leather
VEGETAL LEATHER - UNTREATED
On the daily basis the leather can be kept clean by wiping off the surface with a soft, dry cloth. Try to avoid stains. However, stains on this leather will appear and should be accepted. The stains will even out over time as a part of the natural patina.
If a severe damage stains the leather heavily by accident as for example a spilled glass of red wine it is necessary to act immediately by moderately soaking the leather with mineral water or clean boiled water that has been cooled down to lukewarm temperature – not only the stain but the entire leather surface. Leave it to dry up completely. The stain will not go away but over time stains will even out.
For extraordinary cleaning special soap flakes “Cavo-Ox” can be used for gentle washing. Always follow the instruction on the bag and always treat the whole leather body. If not, there will be a clear marking on the leather.
For maintenance use a pure natural uncoloured leather grease or wax based on bees wax specially made for treatment of uncoloured natural leather. Always be aware of following the instructions on the product carefully. The leather grease or wax can be used as a preventative measure before you start using the furniture. This will apply important moisture, enhance the tanning process and leave the leather in a warmer colour tone.
The furniture should not be placed too close to heat sources such as wooden stoves and radiators. Avoid placing the furniture in direct sunlight for a longer period of time, as the leather is sensitive to sunlight. Both scenarios can dry out the leather and cause the colour to fade. Avoid contact with sharp objects and never use harsh or chemical cleaning agents as they can damage the leather. Be aware that colour from non-colourfast clothing, like new jeans, can colour the pure, natural leather and cause permanent discolouration.
ANILINE LEATHER – NO COATING
Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe off the surface of the leather for regular cleaning. In case of light stains, use a soft cloth, tightly wrung in clean, boiled water that has been cooled down to lukewarm temperature. If liquid is spilled, it should be wiped off immediately as it can leave marks on the surface and cause damage or discoloration. If further maintenance is necessary, leather cleanser, cream or bees wax based grease can be used. Always use products that are specifically made for aniline leather and be aware of following the instructions on the product carefully.
Leather furniture should not be placed in direct sunlight for a longer period of time, as the leather is sensitive to sunlight. Avoid placing furniture too close to heat sources such as wooden stoves and radiators. Both scenarios can dry out the leather and cause the colour to fade. Avoid contact with sharp objects and never use harsh or chemical cleaning agents on the leather as they can damage the material. Be aware that colour from non-colourfast clothing can leave stains on the leather and cause permanent discolouration.
ANILINE LEATHER - LIGHTLY COATED
The surface can be kept clean by using a vacuum cleaner with a soft mouthpiece or by wiping off the surface with a soft, dry cloth. In case of light stains, use a soft cloth, tightly wrung in clean, boiled water that has been cooled down to lukewarm temperature. If liquid is spilled, it should be wiped off immediately as it can leave marks on the surface and cause damage or discolouration. If further maintenance is necessary, leather cleanser or cream can be used. Always use products that are specifically made for coated aniline leather and be aware of following the instructions on the product carefully.
The leather furniture should not be placed close to heat sources such as wooden stoves and radiators. Avoid placing the furniture in direct sunlight for a longer period of time. Both scenarios can dry out the leather and cause the colour to fade. Avoid contact with sharp objects and never use harsh or chemical cleaning agents as they can damage the leather. Be aware that colour from non-colourfast clothing can leave stains on the leather and cause permanent discolouration.
NUBUCK
The soft, velvety surface of nubuck will change its appearance over time due to common use. Nubuck must be cared for with the utmost caution in order to preserve it. For regular cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft and clean mouthpiece at low suction level on the surface. This will remove dirt and dust. Use a dry, soft brush especially made for Nubuck to help the fibres to rise and preserve the soft surface. As rubbing on stains and applying water can damage the surface of the Nubuck leather, it will often be preferred to leave light stains to be absorbed and become a part of the patina instead of trying to remove them.
The nubuck furniture should not be placed close to heat sources such as wooden stoves and radiators. Avoid placing the furniture in direct sunlight for a longer period of time. Both can cause the colour to fade and the leather to dry out. Avoid contact with sharp objects and never use cleaning agents, water or leather cream on Nubuck as they will damage the leather. Be aware that colour from non-colourfast clothing can dye the leather and cause permanent discolouration.
PROTECTED LEATHER
The protected leather has been coated which makes it extremely durable, resistant to water and stains and easy to maintain. The surface can be kept clean by using a vacuum cleaner with a soft mouthpiece or by wiping off the surface with a soft, dry cloth tightly wrung in clean, boiled water that has been cooled down to lukewarm temperature. Use a damp, soft cloth to wipe off the surface of the leather for regular cleaning and light stains. If the surface is particularly dirty, soap flakes can be added to the water. Be sure to wipe the entire surface and dry it off with a dry, soft cloth.
Leather furniture should not be placed too close to heating sources such as wooden stoves or radiators. Avoid placing the furniture in direct sunlight for a longer period of time. Both can dry out the leather and cause the colour to fade. Avoid contact with sharp objects and never use harsh or chemical cleaning agents as they may damage the leather.
Textiles
General information
Regular cleaning will help maintain the appearance of the textile and extend its life. Upholstered furniture collects dust, which will wear out the textile and contribute to a bad indoor climate.
We recommend vacuuming your upholstered furniture frequently with a clean mouthpiece, ideally every week. If the textile is delicate, we suggest that you use a soft mouthpiece on low suction level. To remove light stains, use a cloth which prior has been tightly wrung, in clean boiled water that has been cooled down to lukewarm temperature.
Do not use harsh or chemical cleaning agents on the textiles as they may damage the material. Avoid rubbing firmly on stains as this can potentially damage the fabric and the colour of the textiles. Remember to let the textile dry completely before using the furniture again after cleaning with water. In case of difficult stains or blotches, we always recommend contacting a professional furniture dry-cleaning service.
Upholstered furniture should not be placed close to heat sources like wooden stoves and radiators. Avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight over a longer period of time.
WOOL
Wool is natural hair fibres from sheep and is therefore a biodegradable product. Wool ages with grace and is a versatile material with a large range of benefits. Wool fibres contain lanolin which is a natural grease that repels water and dirt. Wool is flame retardant and extremely durable. It consists of compact, soft and breathable fibres, which makes it a comfortable material as the fibres adapt to the room temperature. Wool can be used for both hard and soft upholstery but is especially suitable for furniture with organic shapes such as those of Finn Juhl, as the elastic fibres ensure good stretching properties.
Please note that many of the textiles are combined from wool, cotton, polyester and nylon. The specific amount of each material is stated underneath each type of textile.
COTTON
Cotton is a natural fibre. The seed wool is picked from plants and then spun into cotton yarn. As it is a plant fibre, the material is biodegradable. Cotton is characterized by being a soft, comfortable and breathable material – and at the same time extremely durable.
Please note that many of the textiles are combined from wool, cotton, polyester and nylon. The specific amount of each material is stated underneath each type of textile.
POLYESTER
Polyester is a synthetic fibre, and the term covers a variety of polymeric materials. The fibres are smooth and fine and have an extremely high abrasion resistance. It is a hypoallergenic material that is not affected by moisture and can withstand washing at high temperatures. Polyester is ideal for increasing the strength and flexibility in natural materials. In addition, it is flame retardant and requires no chemical treatment.
Please note that many of the textiles are combined from wool, cotton, polyester and nylon. The specific amount of each material is stated underneath each type of textile.
NYLON
Nylon is a synthetic fibre and is the most widely used of the synthetic polymers. Nylon has an impressive high strength compared to its weight and is very resistant to wear and tear. It is comfortable against the skin and at the same time soft and insulating. In addition, Nylon is ideal for increasing the strength and flexibility in natural materials.
Please note that many of the textiles are combined from wool, cotton, polyester and nylon. The specific amount of each material is stated underneath each type of textile.
Linoleum
General information
Linoleum is naturally antistatic and resistant to dust and dirt. It is therefore extremely easy to clean. Regular cleaning can be done by using a damp, microfiber cloth which prior has been tightly wrung in clean boiled water and cooled down to lukewarm temperature. After cleaning the surface with water, dry it off with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid using excessive amounts of water as this can cause damage to the material. When necessary, the surface can be treated with Monel Linoleum Care dissolved in clean water in a ratio 1 : 20.
Linoleum has a fairly soft surface and can be scratched with sharp objects. Please do not try to sand or repair by any means. The scratches will to some extent heal themselves over time.
Sheepskin
General information
Sheepskin is a natural product of high quality. To preserve it, regular cleaning is necessary and will make the sheepskin last a long time. Vacuum and air regularly to prevent the texture of the wool from going flat. Stains should be soaked in water immediately as it can leave marks and be difficult to remove subsequently. Clean with a soft sponge, lukewarm water and mild soap especially made for wool. Do not use harsh or chemical cleaning agents on the sheepskin as they may damage the material. Avoid placing the furniture in direct sunlight as sheepskin is a natural material and colour changes in the wool may occur.
Metals
Generel Information
Exclusive metals, like Sterling silver and untreated brass, are not static; they embrace their surroundings, morphing, and adapting. This transformation, termed as patina, is an emblem of the material's journey, holding profound significance for design enthusiasts and collectors.
Learn to understand and appreciate nature’s imperfections and evolvement of patina here.
If you decide to maintain the metals, read about brass and sterling silver below.
Brass
Brass, in its untreated form, is a storyteller. The material, comprising primarily of copper and zinc, is receptive, echoing its interaction with the world. The brass used by us should be understood as a canvas – untreated and sensitive to marks
Though it is possible to polish the brass with the right products, the exclusivity of the brass isn't in its gleaming shine but in its evolving character.
If you decide to polish the brass after all, please only use products specially made for cleaning metallics, such as wipes from Dr. Beckmann or Sterling Polish Company. Be aware that it requires patience and caution, especially when working close to the wooden components.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is shiny and flexible, and it speaks of luxury and timelessness. As an exclusive and natural material, Sterling silver isn't immune to the effects of time and exposure. With time, it oxidizes, embracing stains and transitioning into a brown, dark hue.
Though it is possible to polish the silver inlays, we instead recommend to embrace the transformation, as the colour of oxidized silver will naturally match the warm colour of the walnut.
If you decide to polish the silver after all, please only use dry wipes from Sterling Polish Company that are specially made for silver. It is highly important to avoid all polishing agents as these will damage the wood. When in doubt please reach out to info@finnjuhl.com.