Product Care
PRODUCT CARE & CHARACTERISTICS
Fabric
We use top quality fabrics available to us, and each fabric has its own unique characteristics, which are explained below.
Velvet has a short and dense pile with a very uniform distribution, resembling suede. Velveteen is usually 100% cotton and has more body and less drape than regular velvet. Because of the shorter pile, they are also more matte. The patterns in the piles may present with slightly different colours upon touching.
Cotton is a very short pile of velveteen and is less likely to be flattened. Avoid meeting moisture since this could leave marks. Instead, apply steam for cleaning and cover with a white cloth and steam only over the cover.
Leather-aire is a woven fabric made to look and feel like leather but have the breathability of fabric for a more comfortable feel. Its synthetic micro-perforated, polyurethane material layer makes it not only durable, but also water and stain resistant. Zero or minimum pilling can normally occur with leather-aire.
In the process of upholstery, sometimes there may be some loose threads left on the product, which can be removed by simply snipping the excess/loose thread without pulling. This may cause unravelling within the loose loom fabrics.
- Dirt and body moisture can produce discolouration to your fabric. Regular vacuuming will remove grit that, in time, can wear the fabric and reduce the longevity of your product.
- Where possible, try rotating the back and seating cushions to avoid uneven wear and dent.
- Only attempt professional dry cleaning to make sure you stop shrinkage and the use right heat and products.
- Temporary pilling can happen to any fabric, and this should not be considered a fault. It can easily be removed using a de-pilling machine.
Please ensure that you use your furniture for the intended purpose. The location of your furniture can affect its longevity, so prolonged exposure of furniture to direct sunlight will damage it. Placing furniture too close to radiators, heaters, stoves or wood fires can increase the risk of damage or discolouration. As high humidity can cause mold growth on wooden furniture over time, we recommend ventilating your space to avoid this. Remember sharp objects such as shoe fastenings, accessories, and even your pets' claws can tear, scratch, or even break the furniture. Refrain from sitting on arms, back or the headrest of lounges. For cleaning or room remodelling, always lift your sofa, avoid dragging as it may break or scratch the legs. Do not sit or stand on tabletops, and do not pivot on the back legs of chairs.
If your couch has removable seatings and backrest, please make sure you straighten them after every use; it is perfectly normal for removable seatings to push forward after usage. To extend the life of your couch, fluff the loose and back cushions, rotate them and avoid the accumulation of dust and food in the crevices
Pilling can occur due to natural wear and should not be considered as a fault. Many factors can trigger pilling, including climatic conditions, atmospheric purity and user environment. Pilling occurs when loose micro fibres begin to push out from the fabric's surface, which is a natural feature and does not affect the fabric's durability.
Leather
Leather is a noble and resistant material that gets better with age. It becomes softer and more comfortable with time. Each hide has its own story that can be read by the natural signs impressed on the surface, such as scars, lines, stretch marks, veining and differences in grains and colours. Leather is a natural material that will last a long time if maintained correctly. Periodically dusting using a clean, non-abrasive cloth and regularly vacuuming your furniture will assist in maintaining the product. Leather should further be conditioned and protected using manufacturer approved care products following the instructions carefully.
To minimise fading, avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat. Dye transfer between materials can occur and should be cleaned immediately. It is natural for leather to stretch with use and for seat foams to soften over time. Where possible, try rotating the back and seating cushions to avoid uneven wear and obvious indentation. Use of general household cleaning products, chemicals and abrasives are not recommended as they can break down the protective surface and cause damage to the leather. Please use leather friendly products for general or spot cleaning. For optimum results, use leather balm every few months or after deep cleaning. (Available at all supermarkets and hardware stores).
PU Leather is an artificial leather made of thermoplastic polymer; making it easy to clean, sustainable and has the ability to be made in a variety of colours and styles.
Timber
While most of our timber pieces have lacquered surfaces and are fairly water-resistant, they cannot tolerate excessive amounts of liquid. Therefore, dry any spills immediately by wiping with a non-abrasive damp cloth and polish the surface; otherwise, liquid may seep through the lacquer and cause irreparable damage.
It is always recommended to use protective head coverings on timber pieces, as it cannot tolerate greater temperatures from dishes heated on the stovetop or ovens. In addition, always use coasters when placing cups, bottles or glass on the surface of a timber product.
Natural timber will show distinctive markings, uneven edges, splits, patches, patterns, and colour variations produced from genuine timber materials and are natural to its characteristics. Direct exposure to sunlight will cause timber products, particularly doors, tops and side panels, to warp.
At Koala Living, we offer a range of rustic, solid timber furniture pieces to suit your individual style. Due to the nature of the timber pieces we source, you will find that each piece has its own natural characteristics and patterns. As a result, no two pieces are ever the same, making your selection a unique purchase and beautiful addition to your home.
Marble
Marble is a natural material. Each piece is unique in markings, veins, patterns and colour variations. No two pieces will ever be the same. When selecting we rang, we focus on pieces that showcase and enhance the look and feel of our design aesthetic and how this can be translated into your home. The long lines and swirls that are visible on marble pieces are unique and classified as veins. Veins are a key feature in the appearance and beauty of each marble piece and are considered to differ from colour, thickness, shape to pattern. Be mindful that this is a characteristic of this material.
Marble Care
Always use protective heat coverings to protect against hot objects as the surface can be very delicate. Always use coasters when placing cups, bottles or glass on the surface. Any liquid spills should be wiped clean immediately using a clean cloth to avoid staining. Remove dirt and dust by wiping with a warm, damp cloth and avoid using cleaning products unless specified it is suitable. Never drag marble pieces as it can stress the frame or cause the piece to chip.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an easy material to maintain.
To achieve maximum corrosion resistance the surface of the stainless steel must be kept clean. Do not use abrasive chemicals such as Ethanol (alcohol) or Silicone based cleaners. Dust the surface regularly with a microfibre cloth to avoid build-up of pollutants. Avoid contact with sharp or hard objects, as this will cause scratching. Whilst stainless steel does ‘stain less’, it is not stain or rust resistant so it is recommended to avoid excessive exposure to chemicals. Light scratches or buff marks present on stainless steel furniture are natural to the finish of each piece.
Glass & Mirrored Finishes
To maintain glass or mirrored furniture pieces, always use appropriate glass/mirror cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove dust. Spray or apply only as required as excessive amounts may result in streaky residue being left behind on the item.
It is always recommended to use protective heat coverings, as it cannot tolerate greater temperatures from heated dishes, if possible, eliminate altogether. Always use coasters when placing anything on the surface of a glass product. Refrain from placing sharp or hard objects on glass as this will cause scratching; however, to protect the surface, apply felt to the underside of the item. Use great care when lifting glass or heavy mirrored furniture pieces as they can be fragile. Glue and unwanted residue can be removed by applying some Eucalyptus oil with a soft cloth.
Resin & Acrylic Finishes
Resin and Acrylic pieces are both synthetic materials, so they can scratch and mark easily. Avoid placing sharp objects on their surfaces. Certain solvents can damage Resin and Acrylic, so it is best to keep your furniture away from harsh chemicals. Use lukewarm water with a clean, soft cloth to wipe the surface down to clean your furniture. Once the surface has been appropriately cleaned, dry the surface by blotting with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid placing resin and acrylic pieces too close to a heat source.