Good care keeps a table looking new and helps it last. The advice below is general guidance. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions that arrive with your furniture, and test any cleaner on a small hidden area first.

Everyday Habits That Protect Any Table

• Wipe up spills straight away, especially tea, coffee, juice and red wine.
• Use coasters under mugs and glasses, and placemats or trivets under hot dishes.
• Keep furniture out of direct sunlight and away from radiators, which can fade finishes and warp wood.
• Lift items rather than dragging them across the surface.
• Use felt pads under lamps, vases and ornaments.

Wood and Veneer

Dust with a soft, dry cloth and wipe with a lightly damp one when needed, then dry at once. Avoid soaking wood or leaving standing water on it. Avoid abrasive pads and strong chemicals. Veneer is a thin layer of real wood over a core, so it is especially important not to let moisture sit near the edges. Oak and other wood finishes can change tone gently over time in strong light.

Wood-Effect and Melamine Surfaces

Many tables use melamine or laminate over a board core to give a wood-effect or white finish. These surfaces are generally wipe-clean: use a soft cloth with warm water and a drop of mild washing-up liquid, then dry. Avoid scourers and bleach, and keep hot pans off the surface, as heat can cause damage.

Marble-Effect and Ceramic Tops

A marble-effect top may be ceramic, MDF or laminate with a printed finish. Ceramic is hard-wearing and usually wipes clean with a soft damp cloth and mild cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads that could dull a gloss finish, and do not slide heavy or rough items across the surface. Even with a robust top, use trivets for very hot pans and cutting boards for knives. If you own real marble, which is porous, wipe spills at once and avoid acidic cleaners such as vinegar.

Glass

Clean with a glass cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a little washing-up liquid, then buff with a lint-free cloth. Use coasters and avoid placing very heavy or sharp objects on glass. Never use a cracked or chipped glass top.

Metal Frames and Legs

Wipe black, gold-tone or chrome frames with a dry or barely damp cloth and dry them thoroughly. Do not use abrasive cleaners, which can scratch the finish. Check screws and fixings every few months, because they can loosen with use, and tighten them gently.

Fabric and Velvet Chairs

Vacuum seats regularly using a soft brush attachment. Blot spills with a clean absorbent cloth rather than rubbing. Use a mild fabric cleaner only if the care label allows it, and test on a hidden spot first.

Faux Leather Seats

Wipe with a soft damp cloth and dry. Avoid solvents, harsh cleaners and hot surfaces. Keep seats away from heaters and strong sunlight to reduce cracking and fading.

Extendable Tables

Keep the sliding rails clean and free of crumbs. Open and close the table smoothly and with both hands, lifting rather than forcing it. Store removable leaves flat in the place the manufacturer recommends.

Weight Limits and Safety

Check the maximum load listed on the product page, and do not exceed it. Never stand on a table or chair. Re-tighten fixings if a table feels wobbly. For any serious damage, stop using the piece and contact us.

Need More Help?

For planning your space, see our table size guide. If your furniture arrived damaged or faulty, read our returns and refunds policy, then email us with your order number and photos.