Ercol

Wood care and maintenance

Wood is a natural material making every piece of ercol furniture different, within individual pieces of furniture there can be different grain patterns, colour and shading depending on how the original tree grew. Grain patterns also depend on how the wood is cut, e.g. medullary rays occur when oak is cut across the grain allowing growth rings and flecks to show, this is a sign of quality.

All wood will change colour and mellow over time. To ensure the colour of your furniture remains consistent, do not leave items on the surface for long periods, open extending tables from time to time. Use protective mats for items placed on the surfaces. New furniture will initially vary from older pieces.

Furniture should not be placed directly next to a heat source and preferably not in direct sunlight. Wood will expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, this can cause gaps around cupboards and drawers to appear, and can also cause tiny cracks in wood and along joins in painted furniture, this is unavoidable.

General care of Ercol furniture

Dust furniture regularly with a dry cloth and mop up spillages immediately. Matt or painted furniture - wipe occasionally with a soft cloth, very slightly damp with a dilute mild detergent and dry with a lint cloth.

Satin finish furniture - polish twice a year using natural bees wax. Spray polishes containing silicone should not be used as it will build up on the surface, nor should abrasive cleaning materials be used as these will damage the surface of the protective lacquer.

Furniture with glass

Clean glass panels with a damp cloth or propriety window cleaner; do not use washing powders or products containing abrasive substances as these will scratch the glass.

Do not place very hot or cold items on the glass without using adequately thick table mats. Temperature extremes may lead to cracking. Do not stand or sit on glass surfaces. Do not use glass as a chopping surface, or strike it with a sharp or pointed item.

Fabric care

Every effort is made to keep colours consistent between batches, but fabric manufacturers cannot guarantee exact matching. All fabrics will fade in sunlight, to prolong the life of the fabric do not place it close to a heat source or in direct sunlight. Plump up cushions after use, especially fibre or feather cushions. If the cushions are reversible turn them at least once a week to minimise wear and maintain their appearance.

Cleaning

To prevent dust and dirt accelerating wear, gently vacuum upholstery once a week or use a soft brush, Accidental spills and stains should be treated as soon as possible, except mud which should be left to dry and then brushed off. Remove any solids, then blot up as much liquid as possible with white paper towel or a clean cloth. Upholstery should be cleaned in situ by a specialist dry cleaner.

Chenilles and velvets

Slubs, seeds and pilling

Fine natural yarns such as cotton and linen can contain seeds or slubs a random thickening of the yarn. Small bobbles or fluff are a natural characteristic of some fabrics, it does not indicate wear or an inferior fabric. The bobbles may disappear in time or can be removed with a pilling comb.

Leather

Leather is a natural product and each hide will have its own characteristics. Grain, pattern and colour will vary from hide to hide and within a hide. Growth marks, bites and scars are all part of real leather it is impossible to remove these without destroying the natural softness of the hides.

Care of Leather

Leather furniture in a domestic setting should require limited cleaning and should only be done when necessary. Dust regularly and at least twice a year wipe the surface with a damp cloth and wipe dry, pay special attention to crevices where dust and dirt could cause wear. Spillages should be mopped up immediately, dab off any excess liquid or solids and contact a specialist cleaning company.

Safety Instructions

Wood furniture is very heavy, take care when moving it to avoid damage or injury, never drag furniture always lift it. Some cabinets require fixing to the wall for stability; this will be indicated in the instruction leaflet provided. Take care when opening doors or drawers of these pieces prior to them being secured to the wall. Three legged tables, when using these tables do not overload any one side and keep items central to the tabletop to avoid tipping.

Ercol cannot be held responsible for any damage caused during attempts to clean furniture. We strongly recommend that professional cleaners be consulted.

Ercol will not accept liability for damage or injury caused by incorrectly installed furniture.

PLEASE KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

Ercol Furniture Ltd., Summerleys Road, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire HP27 9PX 01844 271800 ercol.com