Haus Maids Petersfield: How to Clean Antique Furniture Safely
Antique furniture is often as sentimentally valuable as it is beautiful, whether it’s been passed down through generations or you’ve picked it up at a flea market.
However, these items are often made from delicate materials like wood, which require some specialist TLC to maintain. So, how do you look after your antique furniture without damaging it?
Follow these top tips from our house cleaners in Petersfield to ensure your beloved pieces stand the test of time.
Test a small area before cleaning
The last thing you want to do is try a new cleaning product on the entire piece of furniture only to discover it harms the finish or wood. So, test out your chosen products and cleaning methods on a small, discrete area to ensure you won’t do more damage than good.
Dust frequently (but gently)
Did you know that dust can cause scratches and abrasions on wood, glass and polishes over time? With that in mind, make sure you regularly dust your antique furniture using a soft, dry microfibre cloth.
Choose a suitable cleaning method
The cleaning method you choose will depend on the type of material your antique furniture is made from.
For wood, lightly dampen a clean cloth in a mild soap solution and use it to gently but thoroughly wipe down surfaces. For upholstery, we’d recommend using a soft-bristled brush attachment on your vacuum to remove loose dirt, then spot-treat stains using the same mild soap solution. And for any metal components, mix vinegar and water to achieve an even polish.
Make sure surfaces are completely dry
Moisture can be very damaging to your antique furniture, especially if it’s made out of wood. So, ensure you use a clean, dry cloth to immediately remove surface moisture and let them completely dry in a well-ventilated space to avoid warping and mould.
Avoid over-polishing
Too much polishing can just strip away the finish on your furniture, making it look increasingly dull over time. Instead, find a high-quality wood wax and use it sparingly to create a high-shine finish.
Take preventative action
There are plenty of things you can do to maintain your antique furniture. To start with, you should try to keep it out of direct sunlight, which can bleach away the natural colour in your pieces.
It’s also worth placing delicate items in rooms with stable humidity levels to prevent wood damage, and you should always use protective covers and mats on anything that might be at risk from spillages.
Not sure you can keep up with all of the above? Don’t worry — Haus Maids Petersfield has your back.
Our award-winning team covers Petersfield, Liphook, Liss, Bordon, Midhurst and all surrounding areas, including Steep Marsh, Oakshott, West Liss, Rake, Langley, Empshott, Greatham, Blackmoor, Whitehill, Oakhanger, Hollywater, Lindford, Headley, Standford, Headley Down, Hearn, Sleaford, Kingsley, Wheatley, Frith End, Coombe, East Meon, Ramsdean, Stroud, Bordean, High Cross, Stoner Hill, Steep, Steep Marsh, Priors Dean, Weston, West Meon, Buriton, Ditcham, Nursted, Hurst, Harting, Dumpford, Trotton, Rogate, Conford, Bramshott, Linch, Milland and Heyshott
If you live in the area and are interested in our local house cleaning services, please contact us today!
Call 01730 605105 to speak to someone from our Haus Maids Petersfield office about your requirements.