Caring For Your Furniture Items

Keeping your office furniture clean not only preserves its appearance but also extends its lifespan. Different materials require different care approaches, so this guide walks you through the best practices for cleaning laminate, veneer, fabric, vinyl, leather, and metal furniture surfaces commonly found in professional office environments.

Laminate Surfaces

Laminate is durable and low-maintenance, making it common in desks, workstations, and tables.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Use a soft cloth with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap.

  • Alcohol-based disinfectant wipes or sprays are generally safe for daily use.

  • Multi-surface cleaners like 409® or Fantastik® also work well.

Avoid:

  • Abrasive cleaners or scrub pads.

  • Ammonia-based products (like undiluted Windex®).

  • Soaking edges or seams with too much water.

Tip: Wipe dry after cleaning to prevent moisture damage along seams or edges.

Fabric Upholstery

Found in office chairs, panels, and lounge furniture, fabric requires regular care to maintain appearance and hygiene.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Vacuum regularly using an upholstery attachment.

  • Spot clean with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or sponge.

  • Blot gently—do not rub, which can damage fibers.

Avoid:

  • Bleach, harsh chemicals, or over-wetting the fabric.

  • Solvents unless specified by the fabric manufacturer.

Tip: Always spot test in an inconspicuous area before applying any cleaner.

Leather Upholstery

Leather requires gentle care to preserve its rich appearance and feel.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Wipe with a dry or lightly damp cloth.

  • Use a leather-specific cleaner or mild soap (sparingly).

  • Condition with leather conditioner every 6–12 months.

Avoid:

  • Alcohol, ammonia, or bleach-based cleaners.

  • Saturating the leather with water.

  • Direct sunlight, which can fade and dry it out.

Tip: Treat leather like skin—clean it gently and keep it moisturized.

Wood Veneer Surfaces

Wood veneer offers the look of real wood with a more cost-effective core, but it’s more delicate than laminate.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.

  • For light cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap or a wood-safe cleaner like Guardsman®.

  • Silicone-free polish can be used sparingly for shine and protection.

Avoid:

  • Harsh chemicals, bleach, or acetone.

  • Spraying cleaner directly on the surface.

  • Excessive moisture, which can cause warping or finish damage.

Tip: Always wipe in the direction of the wood grain.

Vinyl Upholstery

Vinyl is durable, easy to clean, and great for high-use or healthcare settings.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap solution.

  • Disinfect with alcohol-based wipes or approved commercial cleaners.

  • Some vinyls can tolerate a 1:10 bleach solution—check manufacturer guidelines first.

Avoid:

  • Abrasive pads or scrub brushes.

  • Harsh solvents like acetone or lacquer thinner.

  • Long-term exposure to concentrated bleach or alcohol.

Tip: Regular cleaning prevents buildup of oils that can break down vinyl over time.

Metal Surfaces

Used in chair bases, table legs, and drawer handles, metal can typically be cleaned with minimal effort.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Use warm water with mild soap and a soft cloth.

  • Alcohol-based disinfectant sprays or wipes are safe for most finishes.

  • Microfiber cloths help avoid scratching polished or chrome finishes.

Avoid:

  • Steel wool, abrasive sponges, or acidic cleaners.

  • Letting water sit—this can cause spotting or corrosion over time.

Tip: Always dry metal after cleaning to maintain a clean, spot-free look.