Antiquing and thrift shopping are great ways to bring character into your home. You can find solid furniture with good bones and a deep sense of history. As you unload your new purchases, think about the importance of furniture cleaning in keeping your home fresh and well kept.
When You Make Your Purchase
There's nothing worse than bringing something home from your Atlanta area antique mall to find out that it requires restoration. Look for any parts of the furniture that seem to be falling apart, like rusted metal or deteriorating leather. Not only can unseen damage compromise the structural integrity of your purchases, but they can make a mess in your home. Consider placing new floor protector pads on the feet of your furniture (even if they already have a set ) because old pads can transmit dirt, grime, and dust. New protector pads ensure that your furniture will not damage flooring or drag in additional dirt. At the time of your purchase, always ask the antique dealer or thrift shop owner for specific cleaning recommendations for your purchased furniture.
The Nature of Dirt and Grime
Depending on the age, wear and prior treatment of your antiques, your furniture can carry a lot of grime from decades and centuries of use. A quick swipe of your finger can show you how much dust has collected on the surface. But don't be fooled—your furniture also carries deeper layers of oil from fingertips and particles from its former environment. Sometimes, what seems to be a very tarnished finish is actually layers of accumulated grime that needs to be removed. Upholstered furniture can also be a home to a bevy of germs, microbes, and dust that have made their way into the deep layers of fabric and layers of cushion.
Cleaning Surfaces
Different kinds of furniture require different cleaning methods. A good rule of thumb is to start with the mildest cleaners, especially on wood surfaces that can be easily damaged by liquid or harsh cleaners. Always start with a small test patch in an area that is not easily seen, and wait for it to dry to determine if it will leave behind any noticeable stain. Do not saturate your wood furniture with liquid. Make sure to apply wax to seal the wood from stains and scratches. If you purchase used upholstery furniture such as chairs and couches, consider calling ZEROREZ® for a thorough removal of buildup residue deep in the upholstery. Extricating dirt and grime from fabric fibers is very challenging without the help of a trained professional.
By putting your energy into furniture cleaning, you give your purchases the attention they need to add to your home. Your antiques and thrift store purchases can add style to your home without sacrificing cleanliness and safety.
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