Furniture Care Guide

The short answer: most furniture care comes down to a few simple habits. Dust or vacuum regularly, deal with spills straight away, keep pieces out of strong direct sun and away from heaters, and avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives and detergents. This guide brings together our care advice for every material we sell, so your pieces keep looking their best for years.

Jump to a material:

Why care matters

Good furniture is made to be lived with, and every piece will change a little over time. Fabric softens, leather develops character, and timber can respond to sun and humidity. A little regular care slows down wear, keeps colours looking fresher and helps you avoid damage that cannot be undone, such as heat marks, sun fading or stains that have been rubbed in.

Care is especially important for upholstery. Our 12 month warranty does not cover fabric or leather, so looking after your sofa or chairs properly is the best way to protect them. Always check the Care tab on your product page first, as some pieces have their own specific instructions.

Fabric and bouclé upholstery

Fabric and bouclé sofas, armchairs and dining chairs are comfortable and inviting, and they respond best to gentle, regular care.

  • Vacuum lightly and often. Use a soft brush attachment, ideally once a week, to lift dust and crumbs before they settle into the weave.
  • Blot spills, never rub. Soak up a spill by blotting with a clean, damp cloth. Rubbing can push the stain deeper and damage the fibres.
  • Rotate and plump cushions so they wear evenly.
  • Expect some pilling. Light pilling can happen with normal use, particularly on textured fabrics like bouclé.
  • Get advice before treating. Before cleaning or treating any fabric, including applying fabric protection, we highly recommend getting professional advice.

For step-by-step advice on spills, pilling, pets, sun and professional cleaning, read our Fabric and Bouclé Upholstery Care guide.

Leather and vegan leather

Genuine leather and vegan (leather-look) upholstery both need gentle cleaning, but they age differently. Genuine leather is a natural material, so variations in grain, colour and texture are part of its character, and it will soften and develop a patina over time. Vegan leather is a manufactured surface that is generally more uniform in look.

  • Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Wipe spills straight away with a soft cloth, blotting rather than scrubbing.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives and detergents, which can strip, dry out or crack the surface.
  • Keep out of strong direct sun and away from heat sources such as heaters, fireplaces and air conditioning vents.
  • Ask before conditioning. If you are thinking about a leather conditioner, get professional advice first and test on a hidden spot.

Read our full Leather and Vegan Leather Care guide for more detail.

Timber and veneer

Timber dining tables, sideboards, bedsides and coffee tables bring warmth to a room. Natural timber varies in grain and colour from piece to piece, and this is not a defect. It is part of what makes each piece unique.

  • Dust with a soft, dry cloth, following the direction of the grain.
  • Wipe spills immediately with a soft, dry cloth so liquid does not soak in or leave rings.
  • Use coasters, placemats and trivets for drinks, hot dishes and anything that could scratch.
  • Keep away from direct sun, heat and damp. Strong sun can fade or change the colour of timber, and big swings in heat or humidity can cause it to move, crack or split.
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals, and keep alcohol, nail polish and perfume away from the surface.
  • Lift, do not drag objects across the top, and use felt pads under decor.

Marble, stone and concrete-look surfaces

Marble and natural stone are beautiful, but they are porous and can be marked by acidic or oily spills. Natural marble varies in veining and colour, and this is not a defect.

  • Wipe spills straight away, especially wine, coffee, citrus, vinegar and oils.
  • Always use coasters and placemats, and never place hot pans or dishes directly on the surface.
  • Clean with a soft cloth lightly dampened with water, then dry. Avoid acidic, abrasive or harsh cleaning products.
  • Seek advice before sealing or treating. If you are unsure what a surface needs, contact us or a stone care professional.

Metal frames and bases

Many of our chairs, tables and stools have metal frames or bases. These usually need very little maintenance.

  • Wipe with a soft cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
  • Do not use strong abrasives, detergents or chemicals, which can scratch or dull the finish.
  • Dry any moisture promptly and avoid damp conditions.
  • Check fixings occasionally and gently tighten any that have loosened with use.

Indoor use only, unless marked outdoor

Unless stated otherwise, our products are made for indoor use only. Pieces in our outdoor collection are marked as such on their product pages. Indoor products used outdoors or exposed to the elements, even undercover, are not covered by our warranty. If you are unsure, please ask us before you buy.

How care relates to your warranty

We offer a 12 month warranty against defects in materials and workmanship under normal recommended use. Please keep in mind:

  • Our 12 month warranty does not cover fabric or leather (upholstery).
  • To the extent permitted by law, we are not liable for damage caused by incorrect assembly, incorrect cleaning or the wrong cleaning products, misuse, lack of maintenance or normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear includes minor scratches, marks, fading, pilling of fabric and softening of cushioning.
  • Natural timber, marble and leather vary in grain and colour, and this is not a defect.
  • Your rights under the Australian Consumer Law still apply to all our products, including fabric and leather. Our 12 month warranty is in addition to those rights.

If something does not look right, please get in touch. Email info@futureclassicsfurniture.com.au with photos and your proof of purchase, and we will help.

More help

Our Help Centre has quick answers on:

See and feel it in person

Not sure which material suits your home? Visit one of our showrooms to see and feel our fabrics, leathers, timbers and stone up close. Our team is happy to talk you through how each one wears.

  • Sydney: Unit 3, 2 William Street, Beaconsfield NSW 2015
  • Melbourne: 437 High Street, Prahran VIC 3181

Not every product is on display, so call ahead if you would like to see a specific piece. You can also contact us any time.