FURNITURE CARE GUIDE
Khaticraft's Complete Guide to Maintaining Your Furniture
Last Updated: 17 May 2026
Welcome to Khaticraft's Complete Furniture Care Guide — your trusted companion for keeping your handcrafted furniture looking beautiful and performing flawlessly for decades.
Furniture is more than just a product; it's a part of your home, your memories, and your legacy. With the right care, your Khaticraft furniture can last generations. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you protect your investment, prevent common issues, and maintain the timeless beauty of your pieces.
Whether you have a solid sheesham dining table, a luxurious leather sofa, a teak wood bed, or a custom-designed wardrobe, this guide covers everything you need to know — by material, by product type, by season, and by problem.
📖 What's Inside This Guide
• Section 1: Why Furniture Care Matters
• Section 2: Universal Care Principles (Read This First)
• Section 3: Care by Wood Type (Sheesham, Teak, Mango, Mahogany)
• Section 4: Care by Product Type (Sofas, Beds, Dining, Wardrobes)
• Section 5: Upholstery Care (Fabric & Leather)
• Section 6: Hardware & Mechanism Maintenance
• Section 7: Seasonal Care for Indian Climate
• Section 8: Common Problems & Quick Solutions
• Section 9: What NOT to Do (Critical Mistakes)
• Section 10: When to Call a Professional
• Section 11: Khaticraft Care Services & AMC Plans
1. Why Furniture Care Matters
Quality furniture is a long-term investment. Just as you maintain your car, your home, and your appliances, furniture also needs regular attention to retain its beauty, functionality, and value.
The Benefits of Regular Care
✓ Extended Lifespan: Properly maintained furniture can last 20-50 years, while neglected pieces may deteriorate within 5-10 years.
✓ Preserved Aesthetics: Regular care keeps wood grain visible, finishes lustrous, and upholstery vibrant.
✓ Maintained Resale Value: Well-cared furniture retains 40-60% of its original value, even after years of use.
✓ Warranty Protection: Following recommended care preserves your Khaticraft warranty validity.
✓ Healthier Indoor Environment: Dust-free, mold-free furniture contributes to better air quality.
✓ Cost Savings: Prevention costs far less than repair or replacement.
💡 Mentor's Wisdom: 10 minutes of weekly care saves hours of repair work and thousands of rupees in replacements. Treat furniture care as a small, regular habit — not an occasional emergency.
2. Universal Care Principles (Read This First)
These foundational principles apply to ALL Khaticraft furniture, regardless of material or type:
2.1 The Five Golden Rules
Rule #1: Keep It Dry
• Water is the #1 enemy of wood and many upholstery materials
• Never use wet or soaked cloths for cleaning — always use damp (wrung out) cloths and dry immediately
• Use coasters under all beverages, vases, and water-containing items
• Wipe spills immediately — don't wait, even for water
Rule #2: Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight
• Direct sun causes wood to fade, dry out, crack, and warp
• Fabrics fade and lose color richness within months
• Leather hardens, cracks, and loses suppleness
• Use curtains, blinds, or UV-filtering window films in sunny rooms
• Rotate furniture position every 6 months for even exposure
Rule #3: Maintain Stable Climate
• Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes
• Ideal indoor humidity: 40-60%
• Use a dehumidifier during monsoons and a humidifier in dry winters
• Keep furniture away from AC vents, heaters, and direct airflow
Rule #4: Handle With Care
• NEVER drag or push furniture — always lift from the structural base
• For heavy items, use proper movers, sliders, or get professional help
• Don't lift by edges, tops, or protruding parts — these can break
• Use felt pads under furniture legs to protect floors and absorb shock
Rule #5: Clean Regularly, Polish Periodically
• Daily: Light dusting with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth
• Weekly: Slightly damp cloth wipe, followed by dry buffing
• Monthly: Detailed cleaning of hardware, mechanisms, and hidden surfaces
• Every 6 months: Apply natural wood polish or beeswax
• Annually: Inspect joints, hardware, and finish for any issues
2.2 The Right Cleaning Tools (Build Your Care Kit)
Invest in these essentials for proper furniture care:
• Soft microfiber cloths (multiple — for different surfaces)
• Soft-bristled brush (for crevices and detailed work)
• Natural beeswax or recommended wood polish
• Lemon oil or specialized wood conditioner
• Mild, pH-neutral soap (for occasional deep cleaning)
• Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachments
• Felt pads or furniture glides
• Coasters, placemats, and table runners
• Silicone-based lubricant (for moving parts)
• Spray bottle for distilled water
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Always test any new cleaning product on a small, hidden area first before applying broadly. Wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reaction.
3. Care by Wood Type
Different woods have different characteristics and care requirements. Here's how to care for each.
3.1 Sheesham (Indian Rosewood) Care
Sheesham is a premium Indian hardwood known for its dark, rich grain and exceptional durability. It's one of the most popular choices for Khaticraft furniture.
Characteristics:
• Dense, hard, durable — rated 1660 on the Janka hardness scale
• Rich golden-brown to dark walnut tones
• Naturally termite-resistant
• Beautiful, prominent grain patterns
Care Routine:
• Dust weekly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth
• Wipe with a damp (not wet) cloth monthly, drying immediately
• Apply natural beeswax or sheesham-specific polish every 4-6 months
• Avoid placing in direct sunlight — sheesham can darken unevenly
What to Avoid:
• Harsh chemical cleaners (they strip natural oils)
• Silicone-based sprays (they build up over time)
• Soaking with water (causes swelling and grain raising)
• Extreme temperature fluctuations
💡 Sheesham develops a beautiful patina over years. Don't try to 'restore' minor darkening — it's part of the wood's natural aging beauty.
3.2 Teak Wood Care
Teak is one of the world's most prized hardwoods — naturally water-resistant, durable, and elegant.
Characteristics:
• Naturally weather-resistant and water-repellent
• Contains natural oils that protect against pests
• Golden honey to deep brown tones
• Extremely long-lasting (often 50+ years)
Care Routine:
• Dust weekly with a soft cloth or feather duster
• Clean monthly with mild soap solution and damp cloth
• Apply teak oil or specialized polish every 6-12 months
• For outdoor teak: Allow natural greying or use teak sealer to maintain golden color
What to Avoid:
• Petroleum-based polishes (interfere with teak's natural oils)
• Constant water exposure (despite water resistance)
• Steel wool or abrasive scrubbers
3.3 Mango Wood Care
Mango wood is a sustainable, eco-friendly choice with beautiful grain variations.
Characteristics:
• Medium-density hardwood
• Distinctive light to dark brown color with golden hues
• Eco-friendly (harvested from fruit-bearing trees post-production cycle)
• Susceptible to moisture damage if untreated
Care Routine:
• Dust regularly with soft cloth
• Clean with damp cloth only, drying immediately
• Apply natural wood polish every 3-4 months
• Keep in stable humidity environments
3.4 Mahogany Care
Mahogany is a luxurious hardwood with a deep, reddish-brown color that ages beautifully.
Characteristics:
• Dense, stable hardwood
• Rich reddish-brown to deep mahogany tones
• Excellent for fine furniture and antique-style pieces
• Becomes more beautiful with age
Care Routine:
• Dust weekly with soft, dry cloth
• Use mahogany-specific polish every 4-6 months
• Avoid silicone products — they cause build-up
• Keep away from sunlight to preserve color richness
3.5 Engineered Wood (MDF, Plywood, Particle Board) Care
Engineered woods are practical, affordable, and require slightly different care than solid wood.
Care Routine:
• Dust regularly with dry, soft cloth
• Clean with barely damp cloth — engineered wood is VERY susceptible to water
• Wipe spills IMMEDIATELY (within seconds)
• Do NOT use furniture polish — it can damage the laminate finish
• Use glass cleaner for laminate surfaces if needed
⚠️ Engineered wood is highly vulnerable to water damage. Even a small spill can cause swelling and bubbling if not wiped immediately.
4. Care by Product Type
4.1 Sofa Care
Daily / Weekly:
• Vacuum upholstery weekly using a soft brush attachment
• Rotate cushions weekly for even wear
• Fluff cushions daily to maintain shape
• Wipe wooden/metal frame with soft, dry cloth
Monthly:
• Deep vacuum all crevices, under cushions, and seams
• Check and tighten visible screws and bolts
• Spot-clean any stains promptly (refer to fabric/leather section)
Tips:
• Don't sit on the same spot daily — rotate seating positions
• Don't jump or stand on cushions — collapses foam quickly
• Keep pets off if possible, or use protective throws
4.2 Bed Care
Weekly:
• Vacuum or dust the headboard and frame
• Rotate and flip mattress (if not pillow-top) every 2-3 months
• Check that all joints and hardware are tight
Monthly:
• Vacuum under the bed thoroughly
• Inspect storage drawer mechanisms (if applicable)
• Wipe down wooden surfaces with damp cloth
Tips:
• Don't sit on the edges of the bed repeatedly — it weakens the frame
• Don't jump on the bed (yes, even adults!) — damages slats and supports
• Use a quality mattress protector to extend life
4.3 Dining Table Care
After Every Meal:
• Wipe surface with soft, damp cloth
• Dry immediately
• Use tablecloths or placemats during meals
Weekly:
• Polish with appropriate wood polish (dry cloth method)
• Check leg joints for stability
• Inspect for any heat marks or stains from hot items
Tips:
• ALWAYS use trivets under hot dishes — heat damages finish
• Use coasters under all beverages — water rings are notoriously hard to remove
• Place felt pads on the bottom of vases and decorative items
• Avoid writing on the table directly with pens — they leave indentations
4.4 Dining Chair Care
• Vacuum upholstered seats weekly
• Tighten chair legs and joints monthly (they loosen with use)
• Don't lean back on chairs (puts stress on rear legs)
• Don't drag chairs — lift to move
• Stack chairs only if designed for stacking
4.5 Wardrobe & Almirah Care
Monthly:
• Wipe interior shelves and surfaces with dry cloth
• Check door hinges and tighten if loose
• Inspect locks and keys for smooth operation
• Use moisture absorbers (silica gel) inside, especially during monsoons
Tips:
• Don't overload wardrobes — they're designed for clothing, not heavy storage
• Use cedar blocks or naphthalene balls to prevent moths
• Leave wardrobe doors open occasionally to ventilate
• Don't hang heavy items on doors — strains the hinges
4.6 TV Unit & Entertainment Center Care
• Dust electronics areas regularly (dust + heat = trouble)
• Ensure proper ventilation behind units
• Don't overload shelves beyond rated capacity
• Manage cables neatly — tangled cables can pull units off-balance
• Clean glass surfaces with glass cleaner (avoid spraying directly on wood)
4.7 Study Table & Office Furniture Care
• Use a desk mat to protect from pen pressure and spills
• Don't lean back excessively on office chairs
• Lubricate chair mechanisms (gas lift, wheels) twice yearly
• Tighten all screws monthly — office chairs are heavy-use items
• Keep food and drinks at a safe distance — laptops and spills don't mix
5. Upholstery Care
Note: Upholstery (fabric and leather) is not covered under Khaticraft's standard warranty. However, proper care can dramatically extend its life and beauty.
5.1 Fabric Upholstery Care
Daily / Weekly:
• Vacuum with soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris
• Rotate and plump cushions
• Address any spills immediately by blotting (never rubbing)
Monthly:
• Deep vacuum including under cushions and along seams
• Check for any stains or worn areas
Yearly:
• Consider professional upholstery cleaning
• Inspect for any structural issues with foam or springs
Stain Removal:
• Blot (don't rub) with a clean, dry cloth immediately
• For water-based stains (juice, coffee): Use mild soap solution
• For oil-based stains: Sprinkle baking soda, let sit, then vacuum
• For ink stains: Consult a professional cleaner
• Always test cleaning products on a hidden area first
5.2 Leather Upholstery Care
Weekly:
• Dust with soft, dry cloth
• Use a soft brush to remove debris from seams
Monthly:
• Wipe with damp (not wet) cloth using distilled water
• Inspect for any cracks or dry areas
Every 6 Months:
• Apply quality leather conditioner to keep leather supple
• Use leather-specific cleaner for deeper cleaning
Tips for Leather:
• Keep away from direct sunlight (causes fading and cracking)
• Maintain humidity levels (very dry air cracks leather)
• Don't use water excessively — leather is naturally water-resistant but not waterproof
• Wipe spills immediately
• Never use harsh chemicals or alcohol-based cleaners
6. Hardware & Mechanism Maintenance
6.1 Hinges, Locks & Latches
• Inspect monthly for smooth operation
• Apply silicone-based lubricant (NOT WD-40 long-term) on hinges every 6 months
• Tighten screws immediately when they loosen
• Clean dust and debris from lock mechanisms
6.2 Drawer Slides
• Clean tracks regularly with dry cloth
• Apply silicone lubricant on metal slides every 6 months
• Don't overload drawers beyond their rated capacity
• Open and close gently — slamming damages mechanisms
6.3 Recliner Mechanisms
• Operate gently — don't force reclining beyond natural range
• Check for unusual sounds or resistance monthly
• Lubricate moving joints every 6 months
• Don't sit on the footrest while extended
• Keep small objects away from the recliner mechanism area
6.4 Gas Lifts (Office Chairs)
• Don't sit down forcefully — wears out the gas lift quickly
• Check height adjustment monthly
• If gas lift fails, replace immediately (safety hazard)
• Keep within weight rating of chair
6.5 Castors & Wheels
• Vacuum or wipe wheels regularly (hair and debris accumulate)
• Apply silicone lubricant to wheel axles every 6 months
• Replace damaged castors immediately to prevent floor damage
7. Seasonal Care for Indian Climate
India's diverse climate poses unique challenges for furniture. Here's your season-by-season care guide.
7.1 Summer (April - June) — Heat & Dryness
Challenges: High temperatures, low humidity, intense sunlight
What to Do:
• Close curtains during peak sun hours (11 AM - 4 PM)
• Use humidifiers in air-conditioned rooms to prevent wood drying
• Apply moisturizing wood polish more frequently
• Keep furniture away from direct AC airflow
• Dust more frequently (more particulate in summer air)
What to Avoid:
• Sudden temperature changes (going from cool AC to hot terrace)
• Storing furniture in hot, unventilated rooms
7.2 Monsoon (July - September) — High Humidity
Challenges: Excessive humidity, mold growth, wood swelling, hardware rusting
What to Do:
• Use dehumidifiers in rooms with wooden furniture
• Place silica gel packets inside wardrobes and drawers
• Keep wardrobe doors slightly open for ventilation when possible
• Wipe furniture more frequently to prevent moisture build-up
• Inspect for any signs of mildew weekly
• Apply wood sealer or wax for extra protection
What to Avoid:
• Placing furniture against external walls (moisture penetration)
• Storing damp items in wardrobes or drawers
• Leaving wet items on wooden surfaces
• Running room coolers near wooden furniture (water mist damages wood)
⚠️ Monsoon Alert: Indian monsoons can raise indoor humidity to 80-90%. This is when most wood damage occurs. Be especially vigilant during these months.
7.3 Post-Monsoon (October - November) — Transition
Challenges: Residual moisture, sudden temperature drops
What to Do:
• Deep clean all furniture after monsoon ends
• Apply fresh polish or wax to wooden pieces
• Inspect for any monsoon damage (warping, mold, swelling)
• Lubricate hardware that may have started rusting
7.4 Winter (December - February) — Cold & Dry
Challenges: Very low humidity, dry indoor heating
What to Do:
• Use humidifiers to maintain 40-50% indoor humidity
• Apply moisturizing polish to prevent wood cracking
• Keep furniture away from heaters
• Apply leather conditioner more frequently
What to Avoid:
• Placing furniture next to room heaters or fireplaces
• Direct contact with electric blankets or heated surfaces
7.5 Spring (March) — Renewal
Perfect time for annual deep maintenance:
• Conduct full furniture inspection
• Apply seasonal polish or wax
• Lubricate all hardware and mechanisms
• Consider Khaticraft AMC visit for professional maintenance
8. Common Problems & Quick Solutions
8.1 Water Rings on Wood
Solution:
• Mix equal parts white vinegar and olive oil
• Apply on the ring with soft cloth
• Rub gently in the direction of the grain
• Polish with dry cloth
• If persistent, call Khaticraft for professional treatment
8.2 Minor Scratches
Solution:
• Walnut oil rubbed gently with soft cloth can hide minor scratches
• For darker woods, use a matching wood marker
• Apply wax to seal the scratch
• Deep scratches require professional repair
8.3 Dust in Crevices and Carvings
Solution:
• Use a soft-bristled paintbrush or makeup brush
• Vacuum with crevice attachment on low setting
• Compressed air can work for delicate carvings
8.4 Stuck Drawers
Solution:
• Remove items to reduce weight
• Apply candle wax or silicone lubricant to drawer slides
• If wooden drawer slides: rub with bar soap
• Check for humidity-related swelling (use dehumidifier)
8.5 Sagging Sofa Cushions
Solution:
• Plump and rotate cushions weekly
• If persistent, foam may need replacement (paid service)
• Check for any frame damage underneath
• Khaticraft offers re-cushioning services
8.6 Squeaky Joints
Solution:
• Tighten all screws and bolts in the joint area
• Apply candle wax or silicone lubricant
• If squeaks persist, it may indicate joint loosening (call for service)
8.7 Color Fading
Solution:
• Move furniture away from direct sunlight
• Rotate position so fading is even
• Some fading is irreversible (re-polish or re-stain required)
• Khaticraft offers re-polish services to its products
8.8 Stains on Upholstery
Quick Steps:
• Blot immediately (never rub)
• Identify stain type before treating
• Water-based: Mild soap solution
• Oil-based: Baking soda absorption
• Test on hidden area first
• Consult professional for set-in stains
9. What NOT to Do (Critical Mistakes to Avoid)
Avoiding these common mistakes will save you thousands of rupees in repairs:
9.1 The Big Don'ts
• ❌ Don't use furniture polish on every cleaning — once every 4-6 months is enough
• ❌ Don't use commercial sprays containing silicone — they build up and damage finish over time
• ❌ Don't place hot items directly on wood — always use trivets or heat-resistant mats
• ❌ Don't place beverages without coasters — water rings are nearly permanent
• ❌ Don't drag furniture — always lift to move
• ❌ Don't sit on dining table edges or armrests — they're not designed for body weight
• ❌ Don't overload drawers, shelves, or storage units
• ❌ Don't ignore minor scratches or stains — they get harder to fix over time
• ❌ Don't use ammonia or bleach-based cleaners on wood
• ❌ Don't try DIY repairs for major damage — consult professionals
• ❌ Don't place furniture against damp walls
• ❌ Don't expose to direct sunlight all day
9.2 The Big Do's
• ✓ Do clean spills immediately
• ✓ Do dust regularly
• ✓ Do use proper coasters and placemats
• ✓ Do tighten hardware periodically
• ✓ Do maintain stable indoor humidity
• ✓ Do rotate cushions and orientation
• ✓ Do test new products on hidden areas
• ✓ Do invest in proper care products
• ✓ Do follow manufacturer guidelines
• ✓ Do call professionals when in doubt
10. When to Call a Professional
While daily and weekly care is something you can handle, certain situations require expert intervention. Call Khaticraft's professional service team for:
10.1 Definitely Call a Professional For:
• Deep scratches that penetrate the wood
• Cracks or splits in solid wood
• Loose or broken joints
• Mechanism failures (recliners, drawer slides, hinges)
• Mold, mildew, or termite damage
• Major water damage or warping
• Full re-polish or refinishing needs
• Upholstery tears, rips, or re-cushioning
• Structural concerns (wobbly legs, unstable frames)
• Annual deep maintenance
10.2 Try DIY First For:
• Surface dust and minor cleaning
• Tightening loose screws
• Light scratches (using touch-up markers)
• Spot cleaning of small stains
• Cushion plumping and rotation
• Hardware lubrication
💡 Pro Tip: Document your DIY efforts with photos. If the issue persists or worsens, this helps our service team understand what's been tried.
11. Khaticraft Care Services & AMC Plans
Even with the best home care, professional maintenance ensures your furniture stays in peak condition for decades.
11.1 Available Care Services
🔧 Professional Inspection & Diagnosis: Comprehensive check by trained technicians
✨ Re-Polish & Refinishing: Restore the original luster of your furniture (Starting ₹1,500 to…Product based)
🪡 Re-Upholstery Services: Refresh your sofa with new fabric or leather (Quoted per item)
🛠️ Hardware Replacement: Fix or upgrade hinges, slides, locks, and mechanisms
🌱 Termite Treatment: Preventive and curative treatment under our 10-year warranty
🔄 Foam Replacement: Restore sagging sofa cushions to original comfort
🪵 Wood Restoration: Address cracks, water damage, and aging concerns
11.2 Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) — Your Best Value
Why opt for AMC? Because prevention is far cheaper than repair, and consistent care extends furniture life by 2-3x.
AMC Plans:
Basic AMC — ₹2,500/year: Annual inspection + 1 maintenance visit
Premium AMC — ₹5,000/year: Annual inspection + 2 visits + polish refresh + priority service
Commercial AMC — Custom Quote: Tailored for hotels, offices, and high-traffic environments
AMC Benefits:
• Professional inspection of all your Khaticraft furniture
• Preventive maintenance before problems arise
• Joint tightening, polish refresh, mechanism lubrication
• Priority service response (skip the queue)
• Discounted rates on out-of-warranty repairs
• Extended termite treatment renewals
• Complimentary furniture care kit
• Documented service history (great for resale value)
To enroll in AMC or request a service, contact us at care@khaticraft.com or +91-9999784595.
11.3 Service Visit Information
• Service visit charges: ₹500 - ₹2,500 (based on location and complexity)
• Free inspection if covered under warranty
• Service available across India (Delhi NCR + Tier 1/2 cities)
• Typical response time: 5-7 working days
• Priority service available for AMC customers
📝 Your Furniture Care Cheat Sheet
Save this quick reference for daily use:
Daily: Dust with soft cloth
Weekly: Damp cloth wipe + rotate cushions
Monthly: Tighten hardware + spot clean + ventilate wardrobes
Every 4-6 Months: Apply polish/wax to wood, condition leather
Annually: Professional AMC visit + deep inspection
Always: Coasters, trivets, no dragging, immediate spill cleanup
Need Help? We're Here for You
Khaticraft's relationship with you doesn't end at delivery — it begins there. Our after-sales team is just a call or email away whenever you need guidance, support, or service.
Email: care@khaticraft.com
Phone: +91-9999784595
Working Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM IST
Website: www.khaticraft.com
Address: Plot No. 9A & 31, Furniture Block, WHS Kirti Nagar, New Delhi – 110015, India
Beautiful furniture deserves beautiful care. Treat your Khaticraft pieces as the heirlooms they're meant to be — and they will reward you with lifetimes of beauty, function, and memories.
— The Khaticraft Family