Care Guide

Every Hollis House piece is made to be lived with. A little regular care keeps materials looking their best and helps your pieces age beautifully. Always check the care notes on your product page too, as they may include advice for that particular piece.

Everyday care

• Keep furniture out of strong direct sunlight, which can fade fabrics and dry out wood over time.
• Keep pieces away from radiators, heaters and air-conditioning vents.
• Use coasters, mats and trivets under drinks, hot dishes and plant pots.
• Lift furniture when moving it rather than dragging it.
• Test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

Velvet

• Vacuum gently every week or two with a soft brush attachment, following the direction of the pile.
• Blot spills straight away with a clean, dry, white cloth. Don't rub, as this can push the stain in and crush the pile.
• For marks, dab lightly with a cloth dampened with water and a drop of mild soap, then blot dry.
• Velvet naturally shows light and dark patches as the pile moves. To refresh it, brush gently with a soft clothes brush, or hold a steamer a few centimetres away and brush once dry.
• Plump and rotate cushions regularly so they wear evenly.

Chenille, bouclé & other fabrics

• Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment to lift dust and crumbs.
• Blot spills immediately; never rub.
• Snip any pulled loops with sharp scissors instead of pulling them.
• Unless the product page says covers are removable and washable, don't machine wash. For deep cleaning, use a professional upholstery cleaner.

Wood, veneer & painted finishes

• Dust regularly with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
• Wipe spills immediately and dry the surface straight away. Never leave water standing on wood.
• For marks, use a cloth very slightly dampened with water, then dry it.
• Avoid silicone polishes, harsh chemicals and abrasive pads, which can damage the finish.
• Solid wood is a natural material and may move slightly with changes in humidity. Keeping your room at a steady temperature helps.

Engineered wood & MDF

• Wipe with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth.
• Keep away from moisture and wipe up spills quickly, especially around edges and joins, as engineered board can swell if it gets wet.
• Check and gently tighten fittings every few months.

Marble & stone

• Wipe with a soft cloth and warm water, then dry.
• Marble is porous, so wipe up spills quickly, especially wine, coffee, oil and citrus, which can stain or etch the surface.
• Avoid vinegar, lemon, bleach and other acidic or abrasive cleaners.
• Always use coasters and mats.

Glass & crystal

• Clean with a soft, lint-free or microfibre cloth and a gentle glass cleaner, or warm water with a drop of mild soap.
• For crystal-effect beads and shades, dust gently with a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster.
• Avoid abrasive cloths, which can scratch.
• Always switch off and let lamps cool before cleaning glass shades.

Metal, brass & gold finishes

• Dust with a soft, dry cloth.
• For marks, wipe with a slightly damp cloth and dry straight away to prevent water spots.
• Avoid metal polishes and abrasive cleaners on plated or painted finishes, as they can remove the coating.

Paper & fabric lamps

• Switch off, unplug and let the lamp cool completely before cleaning.
• Dust paper shades very gently with a soft, dry brush, such as a clean make-up brush, or a hairdryer on a cool, low setting.
• Never use water or cleaning sprays on paper shades.
• Keep paper lamps away from damp rooms such as bathrooms.
• Use only the bulb type and wattage recommended for your lamp. LED bulbs stay cool and are best for paper and fabric shades.

Rattan, woven & outdoor furniture

• Brush off dust and leaves regularly, and wipe with a damp cloth.
• For outdoor pieces, store cushions indoors or cover them when not in use, and allow everything to dry fully after rain.
• Treat acacia and other outdoor woods with a suitable outdoor oil once or twice a year to keep them protected.
• Cover or store outdoor furniture during long periods of heavy rain or strong sun.

Lighting safety

• Always switch off and unplug lamps before cleaning or changing a bulb.
• Use each lamp only with the voltage it was designed for.
• Ceiling lights, pendants and chandeliers should be installed by a qualified electrician.

Need help?

If you're unsure how to care for a piece, email us at hollishouseco@gmail.com or visit our contact page. We're happy to help.