Handcrafted furniture is so much more than just furniture. It’s about the story of the craftsman who made it, the natural materials used, and the generations of craftsmanship behind each piece. Taking care of it properly is crucial for protecting something for years to come. Whether it’s a teak dining table, a rattan accent chair, or a hand-thrown ceramic vase, here’s how to keep your handcrafted treasures looking their best.
Caring for Teak Furniture
Teak is one of the most durable and naturally resilient woods, but even this sturdy material deserves a little love to keep it looking its best.
Everyday Care
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent buildup.
- For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap (avoid anything too harsh).
- Every few months, apply a teak-specific oil if you want to maintain the warm, honey-toned colour—otherwise, let it naturally age to a silvery grey.
What to Avoid
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or sprays, as they can strip the natural oils from the wood.
- Don’t place your furniture directly next to radiators or heating vents as dry heat can cause cracking .
- Direct sunlight can speed up fading and drying, so position your pieces thoughtfully (especially for indoor furniture).
Personal Recommendations
- Use Osmo Top Oil (clear satin) for tables and sideboards as it protects without changing the natural colour.
- A microfibre cloth is best for dusting, as it won’t scratch or leave streaks.
Caring for Teak Bowls & Kitchenware
Teak bowls and serving pieces need slightly different care than furniture, since they come into contact with food and water.
Everyday Care
- Hand wash only. Never put teak bowls in the dishwasher.
- After washing, dry immediately with a clean towel.
- To maintain their natural beauty , apply a food-safe mineral oil every few months.
What to Avoid
- Don’t soak in water. Teak is naturally water-resistant but prolonged exposure can weaken it.
- Avoid using harsh dish soaps or abrasive sponges that can damage the finish.
- No direct sunlight for extended periods as this can cause the wood to warp or split.
Personal Recommendations
- Use Clapham’s Beeswax Salad Bowl Finish. It’s food-safe and helps repel moisture while keeping the wood hydrated.
Caring for Natural Rattan Furniture
Rattan brings warmth, texture, and a natural, laid-back vibe, but it’s a delicate material that needs gentle handling.
Everyday Care
- Dust regularly using a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to get into the natural grooves.
- For light cleaning, wipe with a damp cloth but make sure it’s wrung out well, as rattan doesn’t love excess moisture.
- If you notice the rattan becoming brittle , lightly mist it with water to restore flexibility (especially important in centrally heated homes).
What to Avoid
- Avoid placing rattan in constantly damp or humid areas (like bathrooms), which can encourage mould.
- Keep rattan furniture away from radiators or strong sunlight, which can dry it out and lead to cracking.
- Don’t overload rattan seating. Although it’s strong, it works best with gentle use.
Personal Recommendations
- For regular cleaning, a soft bristle paintbrush works well for getting dust out of the weave.
- For conditioning, a light spritz of water from a plant mister is enough—nothing too wet.
Caring for Natural Synthetic Rattan (Zara Collection)
Our Zara Collection, designed to work both indoors and out, uses natural synthetic rattan that’s built to withstand more wear and tear than natural rattan, making it ideal for busy spaces.
Everyday Care
- Wipe down with a damp cloth for regular cleaning.
- If used outdoors, rinse off dust and pollen every so often with a damp sponge.
What to Avoid
- Avoid leaving synthetic rattan outside all year, even though it’s weather-resistant. Cover it up or bring it inside during the harshest weather to help it last longer.
- Don’t use abrasive scrubbing brushes. A soft cloth or sponge works best.
- Don’t place hot items directly on the rattan. Try to use coasters or mats where possible.
Personal Recommendations
- Use a gentle outdoor furniture cleaner, especially if your Zara chair spends time on patios or decking.
Caring for Handcrafted Ceramics
Hand-thrown ceramics, like our vases and diningware, are designed to be used and loved, but they do need a bit of care to avoid chips or cracks.
Everyday Care
- Dust vases regularly with a soft cloth.
- For functional ceramics (like bowls or mugs), hand wash with mild soap and dry immediately. Ensure you check if your ceramics are dishwasher safe. Our handmade Ulu dining set is fully dishwasher safe, making it a great option for everyday use.
What to Avoid
- Avoid sudden temperature changes (like putting cold water in a vase that’s been sitting in direct sunlight).
- Don’t stack heavy items on delicate ceramics. Although they’re strong, they're not indestructible.
- Avoid leaving water sitting inside for the vase for long periods (especially in cooler rooms).
Personal Recommendations
- For extra shine on display pieces, use a clean microfibre cloth (nothing too abrasive).
- Use felt pads underneath ceramics displayed on wooden furniture to prevent scratches.
A Final Note on Sustainability
With the right care, your handmade furniture and homeware pieces can last a lifetime, becoming part of your home’s story and avoiding the fast furniture cycle.
When you invest in well-made furniture, caring for it properly is a way to live more sustainably, valuing the craftsmanship and materials that make each unique piece. Caring for your homeware should be easy and incorporated into your everyday routines.
