How to Take Care of Your High Gloss Furniture?
High gloss furniture is a sleek, modern option that can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any home.
Its smooth, reflective surface can brighten a room and create a contemporary feel. However, due to the process used to create this finish, high gloss furniture can be susceptible to dents, chips, and scratches, and requires regular and careful maintenance to retain its shine and beauty.
Here are comprehensive tips and guidelines to help you care for your high gloss furniture, ensuring it remains in pristine condition for years to come.
Understanding High Gloss Furniture
High gloss furniture is characterised by its shiny, reflective surface. This finish is achieved through multiple layers of lacquer or varnish, which are polished to a high sheen. The result is a mirror-like surface that enhances the overall aesthetic of the furniture. While this finish is beautiful, it also makes the furniture more vulnerable to visible scratches, dents, and other imperfections.
Benefits of High Gloss Furniture
Before diving into the care tips, it’s essential to understand why high gloss furniture is so popular:
- Aesthetic Appeal: The shiny surface reflects light, making spaces appear larger and brighter.
- Modern Look: High gloss finishes are synonymous with contemporary design, adding a sleek and sophisticated touch to any room.
- Versatility: Available in various colours and styles, high gloss furniture can easily match different interior design themes.
- Ease of Cleaning: The smooth surface is relatively easy to wipe clean, provided the correct techniques are used.
Essential Care Tips for High Gloss Furniture
Avoid Corrosive Chemicals
When cleaning high-gloss furniture, it is crucial to use the right cleaning products. Speciality cream polishes specifically designed for high gloss finishes are the best choice. These products are formulated to clean without damaging the surface. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use Mild Solutions: If you prefer a homemade solution, opt for a mixture of water and mild dishwashing liquid. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can damage the finish.
- Test First: Before applying any cleaner, test it on a hidden area to ensure it does not damage the surface.
- Avoid Excess Water: Using too much water can warp the high gloss finish. Use a damp cloth rather than a soaking wet one, and always dry the surface immediately after cleaning.
Use a Damp Cloth
The key to cleaning high-gloss furniture is to use a damp cloth with minimal pressure. Here’s how to do it correctly:
- Dampen the Cloth: Wet a soft cloth with water and wring it out until it is just damp.
- Wipe Surfaces: Gently wipe the surfaces of the furniture using straight, even strokes. Avoid circular motions as they can leave streaks.
- Dry Thoroughly: After wiping, immediately dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots.
Avoid Dry Dusting: Never use a dry dusting cloth on high gloss furniture, as this can scratch the surface. Microfibre cloths, in particular, can contain abrasive fibres that create fine scratches, dulling the shine over time.
Dealing with Spots and Dirt
Spots and dirt can be challenging to remove from high-gloss furniture without causing damage. Here are steps to handle different types of spots:
- Sticky Spots: For sticky spots, use a soapy solution made by diluting a teaspoon of dish soap in a half gallon of water. Wipe the spot with the solution, then rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry immediately.
- Dirty Marks: For dirty marks, start with a light cleaner. Apply it gently to avoid applying pressure that could embed dirt particles into the finish.
- Buffing: After cleaning, buff the area with a dry, soft cloth to restore the shine.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Never use abrasive cleaners, alcohol, or solvents, as these can strip the finish and leave the surface looking dull.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping high gloss furniture looking its best. Here are some ongoing care tips:
- Dust Regularly: Dust your furniture regularly using a damp cloth to prevent the build-up of dust and dirt, which can scratch the surface.
- Polish Occasionally: Use a high-quality furniture polish designed for high gloss surfaces to maintain the shine. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Protect the Surface: Use coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect the surface from spills, heat, and scratches.
Preventive Measures
Taking preventive measures can significantly extend the life of your high-gloss furniture:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the finish to fade and become discoloured. Place your furniture away from windows or use curtains to block direct sunlight.
- Handle with Care: Be gentle when moving items on or near your high gloss furniture. Lift objects rather than sliding them to avoid scratches.
- Protect from Sharp Objects: Keep sharp objects away from the surface to prevent accidental scratches and dents.
Choosing High Gloss Furniture
If you’re considering purchasing high-gloss furniture, here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Quality of Finish: Look for furniture with a high-quality finish that will be more durable and less prone to damage.
- Construction: Ensure the furniture is well-constructed with sturdy materials to support the high gloss finish.
- Style and Design: Choose pieces that complement your home’s decor and suit your style.
High gloss furniture can add a modern and elegant touch to your home, but it requires proper care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your high gloss furniture remains in pristine condition, maintaining its shine and beauty for years to come. Whether you are dusting, cleaning, or dealing with spots, using the right techniques and products is essential.
For those looking to add high gloss furniture to their home, Relaxhouse offers a wide selection of high-quality pieces that combine style and durability. Visit our showroom or contact us at 1300-307-164 to explore our full range of designer furniture and find the perfect additions to your home decor.
With regular care and the right cleaning methods, your high-gloss furniture will continue to be a stunning feature in your home, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
High gloss furniture offers several benefits: it has an aesthetic appeal with a shiny surface that reflects light, making spaces appear larger and brighter. It provides a modern look synonymous with contemporary design, adding sophistication to any room. It is versatile, available in various colors and styles to match different interior design themes. Additionally, it is relatively easy to clean, provided the correct techniques are used.
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Use a damp cloth with minimal pressure to clean high gloss furniture. Avoid dry dusting as it can scratch the surface. For spots and dirt, use a mild soapy solution and wipe with a damp cloth, then dry immediately. Regularly dust with a damp cloth, and occasionally use a high-quality furniture polish designed for high gloss surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, alcohol, or solvents. Protect the surface with coasters, placemats, and trivets, and keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
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The best cleaning products for high gloss furniture are specialty cream polishes specifically designed for high gloss finishes. Mild solutions, such as a mixture of water and mild dishwashing liquid, are also effective. Always test any cleaner on a hidden area first to ensure it does not damage the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, and use a damp cloth rather than a soaking wet one to clean the furniture, drying the surface immediately after cleaning to prevent water spots.
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To protect high gloss furniture, avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause fading and discoloration. Handle the furniture with care, lifting objects rather than sliding them to avoid scratches. Keep sharp objects away from the surface to prevent accidental scratches and dents. Use coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect the surface from spills, heat, and scratches. Regularly dust and clean the furniture using appropriate methods to maintain its shine and appearance.
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When choosing high gloss furniture, consider the quality of the finish to ensure durability and resistance to damage. Look for well-constructed furniture with sturdy materials to support the high gloss finish. Choose pieces that complement your home’s decor and suit your style. Consider the maintenance requirements and be prepared to invest time in regular care to keep the furniture looking its best. High gloss furniture can add a modern and elegant touch to your home, but it requires proper care and maintenance to maintain its beauty and shine.
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The frame of a mirror is just as important as the mirror itself. A flashy or well-designed frame can call attention to the mirror and enhance your interior design. Choose frames that either freshen up or soften the room’s aesthetics as needed. Designer mirrors can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. Consider the overall style and décor of your space when selecting a designer mirror to ensure it complements and enhances the room.
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