Care & Maintenence

Caring for your LIM furniture

Important Tips

  • Protecting it from heat, moisture, and UV exposure is crucial for its longevity.
  • Dry moisture or liquids immediately.
  • Direct contact with pens, rubber, candle wax, wine, food, or any perfumed product can stain and damage most furniture surfaces.
  • Wood may expand and contract with seasonal changes. Maintain consistent humidity levels to prevent warping or cracking.
  • Exposure to air, artificial light, and UV radiation will gradually change the natural colour of wood and sprayed surfaces.
  • Rotate items on surfaces for even aging and colour development.
  • Lighter woods tend to yellow, while darker woods may lighten with age.
  • Avoid dragging furniture with legs, as they may crack or break.
  • To help prevent scratches, use adhesive felt pads, coasters, and placemats, and avoid sliding objects across the surface.
  • To keep your outdoor furniture in good condition the use of protective covers is strongly recommended.

The Specifics

Sprayed MDF and Metal Surfaces

  1. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to dust the surface regularly.
  2. Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap solution as needed. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dampen a cloth with this solution and wipe the surface gently.
  3. Dry immediately after cleaning. Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove any excess moisture.
  4. Do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the sprayed finish.
  5. Avoid using furniture polish as over time it can accumulate and leave a residue.

Metal Surfaces - Outdoor

  1. Rinse the steel surface with fresh water to remove loose dirt, salt, and debris.
  2. Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap solution.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove soap residue.
  4. Use a soft cloth to dry the steel surface completely.
  5. Clean the steel regularly to prevent buildup of salt and other corrosive elements.
  6. If you are near the ocean or have direct exposure to it, you should clean your steel furniture at least once a week.
  7. A protective cover is strongly recommended for your outdoor furniture.

Timber - Raw and VOE

  1. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or a soft-bristle brush to dust the surface. This will remove loose dirt and dust without scratching the wood.
  2. Dampen a cloth with clean water. Ensure the cloth is only slightly damp, not wet, to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood. Gently wipe down the surface to remove any dirt or residue.
  3. If the wood is particularly dirty, you can use a mild soap solution. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dampen a cloth and gently wipe the wood.
  4. After cleaning with the soap solution, rinse the cloth with clean water, wring it out, and wipe the wood again to remove any soap residue. Immediately dry the surface with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to prevent moisture absorption.
  5. Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasives, or excessive water, as these can damage the wood.
  6. Regularly dust and clean the wood to prevent buildup and maintain its natural appearance.
  7. Do not use any product containing wax or oil to clean.

Timber - Oil Finish

  1. Follow steps 1 - 6 detailed under Timber - Raw and VOE above.
  2. If the wood appears dry or dull after cleaning, try applying a thin coat of oil using a soft white cloth.
  3. Please contact us on shop@lim.co.za to find out which oil is best for your wood.

Marble and stone surfaces

Daily cleaning

  1. Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust from the surface.
  2. For more thorough cleaning, mix a few drops of mild pH-neutral soap with warm water. Do not use bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals on marble and stone surfaces.
  3. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the soap.
  4. Immediately dry the surface with a soft towel or cloth to prevent water spots.

Light Stains

  1. Apply a paste made of baking soda and water to the spot.
  2. Cover it with plastic wrap, securing the edges with tape to keep it in place.
  3. Allow the mixture to sit for 24 hours to "pull out" the discoloration.
  4. Gently wipe away the paste with a warm, damp cloth.

Protecting your marble and stone surfaces

  1. Do not use abrasive pads or brushes as they can scratch the surface.
  2. Immediately wipe spills to protect your marble and stone surfaces from stains.
  3. Avoid letting acidic substances (like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine) sit on the surface as they can etch (eat at the surface) the stone.
  4. Do not use bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals.
  5. Place coasters under glasses and candles and mats under hot dishes to prevent direct contact with the stone.

Concrete surfaces

Regular cleaning

  1. Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust from the surface.
  2. For more thorough cleaning, mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water.
  3. Dampen the soft cloth with the soapy water solution and gently wipe down the concrete surface.
  4. Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Immediately dry the surface with a soft towel or cloth to prevent water spots.

Waxing

  1. A light waxing with Cobra Wax Clear is advisable as needed.
  2. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying wax.
  3. Apply a thin, even layer of Cobra Wax Clear to the concrete surface using a soft cloth.
  4. Apply wax as needed, typically every few months, or whenever the surface starts to look dull or shows signs of wear.

Protecting your concrete surfaces

  1. Avoid cleaning products or substances containing acids, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or commercial cleaners with acidic components.
  2. Clean up spills immediately to prevent staining. Substances like wine, coffee, oils, and acidic foods (such as citrus fruits and vinegar) can stain the concrete if left unattended.
  3. Place coasters under glasses and candles and mats under hot dishes to prevent direct contact with the stone.

Fabric and leather

  1. Professional cleaning is recommended.
  2. Prewashed loose covers may be washed at a maximum of 30 degrees with mild detergent. Do not tumble dry.

Mirrors and glass

  1. Use a soft cloth to clean with a commercial glass cleaner.
  2. Wipe dry with a clean, dry microfiber cloth in a circular motion.
  3. Backs of mirrors may be damaged when exposed to excessive moisture or humidity.