Care and Maintenance

General Timber Care:

At Fomu, we pride ourselves on sourcing the highest quality timber to ensure the utmost consistency in our products. Please note that timber components may vary slightly in colour and grain direction due to their natural characteristics.

  • Use a soft dry cloth to remove dust from the timber surface.

  • For spills, use a soft damp cloth to wipe the surface immediately.

General Steel Care :

  • Finished with a durable powder coat, ideal for indoor use only.

  • Dust with a soft dry cloth.

  • For spills, use a soft damp cloth to wipe the surface.

Care and Maintenance Detailed

Fabric Upholstery:

Velvet:

  • Act promptly on spills by blotting with a clean, dry absorbent cloth.

  • Never bleach, tumble dry, machine wash, or iron.

  • Professionally clean according to the supplier's recommendations.

  • To remove dust, vacuum regularly with low suction and a soft brush attachment or use a soft lint brush.

Leather:

  • Protect from direct sunlight, heat, and weather.

  • Dust with a clean dry cloth or vacuum using a soft brush attachment.

  • Immediately address liquid and food spills; wipe with a clean, damp cloth using a suitable leather cleaner.

  • Avoid shoe, saddle, or floor polishes, as well as laundry cleaning products.

Cotton & Polyester:

  • Protect from direct sunlight.

  • Vacuum regularly with low suction and a soft brush attachment.

  • Professionally clean following fabric supplier's instructions.

  • Treat spills and stains promptly with a clean, damp cloth.

  • Dry in the shade thoroughly before use.

Sheepskin:

  • Store away from direct sunlight and high heat sources.

  • Never rub or brush wet sheepskin.

  • For small spills, wipe with a damp cloth and gently pluck debris with tweezers.

  • Avoid hot water, as it can strip natural oils (lanolin) and cause permanent damage.

  • For professional cleaning, choose a cleaner specializing in leather/suede/fur.

Canvas & Vinyl Upholstery:

  • Regularly vacuum to remove dust and dirt.

  • Do not remove cushion covers for machine washing; spot clean immediately after spills.

  • Clean rope on sun loungers with a damp cloth and mild soap.

  • Air dry cushions; do not store away wet/damp cushions.

  • For outdoor use, store indoors during winter or invest in marine-grade custom vinyl covers for added protection.

  • Avoid harsh substances like suntan lotions and sprays; clean spills promptly with mild soap and water.

  • Refer to individual suppliers for care of designer-specified fabrics.

Wool Upholstery:

  • Protect wool upholstery from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

  • Vacuum regularly using low suction and a soft brush attachment to remove dust.

  • Attend to spills promptly by blotting the area with a clean, dry absorbent cloth.

  • For stubborn stains, use a clean damp cloth with mild wool detergent.

  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the fibers.

  • Never tumble dry, machine wash, or iron wool upholstery.

  • Professional cleaning is recommended according to the wool suppliers' instructions.

  • Allow wool upholstery to air dry thoroughly in the shade.

Hard Finishes

Mild Steel:

  • Clean as needed with warm soapy water using a soft clean cloth.

  • Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.

  • Apply a light coat of wax or oil regularly to protect against moisture and prevent rust.

Aluminum:

  • Wipe down with a damp cloth.

  • For stubborn marks, use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth.

  • Apply a protective coating of aluminum wax or polish to maintain shine.

  • Note: Aluminum is a raw material that may oxidize over time, leading to a natural weathered appearance. This oxidation does not compromise the structural integrity but contributes to the material's unique character.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads to prevent scratching.

Stainless Steel:

  • Regularly clean with a mild detergent and warm water.

  • Dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.

  • For tougher stains, use a stainless steel cleaner.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads to prevent scratching.

Powder Coated:

  • Wash items with warm soapy water using a soft clean cloth.

  • Recommend regular cleaning, especially in marine or commercial environments.

  • Avoid pressure washing or steaming.

  • Purchase touch-up paint for scratches and chips (availability dependent).

  • Repair chips promptly; chips due to rough treatment are not covered by warranty.

Glass, Perspex, Resin, and Ceramic:

  • Clean or dust with a soft cloth.

  • For stubborn marks, use a non-abrasive mild soap and damp cloth.

  • Avoid wool metallic scourers to prevent scratching.

  • Chipping and scratching are considered wear and tear and are not warranted.

Marble, Granite, and Tile:

  • Clean with warm soapy water.

  • Avoid leaving food residue or liquid for extended periods to prevent staining.

  • Staining and chipping are considered general wear and tear and are not covered under the warranty.

Timber:

  • Each piece of timber is unique, and natural color or grain variations are inherent. Here are guidelines for different finishes:

  • Solid Timber and Veneer with Acrylic 2 Pak Finish:

  • Finished with a clear satin lacquer inclusive of an ultraviolet light protector.

  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

  • Use coasters, clothes, and mats to protect against hot objects.

  • Avoid excessive liquids or moisture to prevent movement, cracking, or mold.

Solid Timber and Veneer with Oil/Wax Finish:

  • Correctly coated with an oil finish for water and dirt resistance.

  • Use Osmo Spray Cleaner (8026) for frequent cleaning; avoid harsh chemical detergents.

  • Rejuvenate with Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner (3029) if furniture becomes faded or dull.

  • For stubborn stains, follow specific guidelines based on timber type.

  • Avoid using regular household or harsh chemical detergents.

Additional Tips:

  • Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading and discolouration.

  • Protect against heat and electrical appliances.

  • Use pads or coasters between objects and timber surfaces.

  • Watch humidity levels; use a humidifier in winter and an air conditioner in summer.

  • Store furniture away from heat sources and sudden changes in relative humidity.

For any further inquiries, please contact us directly at hello@fomudesign.com or refer to our full Care & Maintenance guide for comprehensive details.