CARE OF ITEMS
HC Group provides clients with high quality products selected not only for their innovative design but also for the high standard of their workmanship. Of course, even the best products require occasional maintenance in order to ensure that they are protected from the effects of frequent use. Please refer to the following instructions when caring for your HC Group furniture.
TIMBER
Timber is a natural product. As such, subtle marks or variations in the wood grain are to be expected and lend distinction and character to your unique piece of furniture. The correct way of caring for a timber piece will depend upon the product’s finish. In general, you are advised not store timber products under plastic or any other substance that will impede ventilation. Poor ventilation encourages the growth of mildew on the timber, which can lead to unattractive stains.
INDOOR TIMBER FURNITURE FINISHED WITH TWO PACK POLYURETHANE
Apply non-abrasive, solvent-free cleaning products with a soft cloth. Use of harsh cleaners or any solvent will damage the surface and void any warranty. Avoid the use of strong detergents, glass cleaners and silicone based products. We recommend the use of products with natural ingredients such as beeswax.
You can repair minor abrasions and scuffs using Mirotone Teak Wax, Scratch-fix pens, or similar products. Polyurethane is not suitable for outdoor use as exposure to the elements will cause the varnish to peel and/or flake.
INDOOR AND OUTDOOR TIMBER FURNITURE FINISHED WITH OIL AND/OR WAX
An oil or wax finish helps to protect the wood from the elements and prevents irregular stains from seeping into the timber.
It is necessary to re-oil timber twice a year. The frequency of the oil application depends on how harsh the climate is and on the owner’s personal preference as to the appearance of the wood. Please clean and dry your timber before carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the wood oil/wax.
OUTDOOR TIMBER FURNITURE FINE SANDED
If your furniture is fine sanded, it is untreated and raw, with only the natural light colour of the wood and its beautiful grain. To maintain the clean finish, lightly sand the timber in the direction of the grain with medium grade sandpaper.
METALS
CHROMED STEEL
Chrome plated items are for interior use only.
Use WD40, vinegar, rubbing alcohol or baby oil on a clean soft cloth to remove general grime. Products that contain an oil substance like baby oil or WD40 will protect the surface and help keep it clean.
Rust will usually appear on chromed items when deep scratching has led to the mild steel beneath the chrome surface being exposed to the elements. You can remove any rust by balling up some aluminium foil and rubbing it gently on the rusty areas to smooth and shine them up. Alternatively, for particularly dirty parts of the chair, you can use a soft sponge with some Easy Off BAM or a similar grime-removing product. Please always check the instructions on the cleaning product in order to ensure that it is appropriate.
STAINLESS STEEL
Frequent cleaning using warm water, with or without a gentle detergent, is sufficient to maintain the attractive look of stainless steel.
For stubborn marks, mild non-scratching abrasive powders such as typical household cleaners can be used with warm water and a clean cloth. Many cleaners contain corrosive ingredients which require thorough rinsing with clean water. For more aggressive cleaning, a small amount of vinegar can be added to the powder. When abrasives are needed on the stainless steel frame, first experiment on an inconspicuous area. Cleaning should always be followed by rinsing with clean hot water. Always dry the cleaned and rinsed product completely in order to avoid water stains.
Ordinary carbon steel brushes or steel wool balls must be avoided as they may leave iron particles embedded on the surface which will rust.
Fingerprints and mild stains are easy to remove with a variety of stainless steel cleaning products available from supermarkets and hardware stores.
Fine scratches in the stainless steel frame can be buffed out with a Scotch Brite pad. Be sure to buff the product in the same direction as the stainless steel grain.
POWDER COATED STEEL
Frequent cleaning using warm water and a soft cloth, with or without a gentle detergent, is sufficient to keep Epoxy Coated steel looking good. This is the only method we recommend to clean these products. Harsh chemicals can erode the surface, which exposes the steel underneath and leaves the product prone to unattractive rusting. A deep scratch on powdered coated surfaces will penetrate the coating and expose the steel underneath which will react with oxygen to form iron-oxide which is rust.
UPHOLSTERY
In the event that an upholstery product is soiled, it is recommended that you clean it as quickly as possible. For the best results, please carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
FABRIC
Fabric care depends on the colour, material and grade of the fabric. Always carefully follow manufacturers instructions on how to care for and maintain the particular fabric and if unsure, call for advice. In general, we recommend natural products and testing them carefully on an inconspicuous part of the product before applying them to more noticeable areas.
LEATHER
The most appropriate way to maintain your leather product will depend upon the grades and type of the leather. As such, we recommend that you contact the leather supplier for instructions. Generally, leather should be wiped regularly with a colourfast, damp white cloth. Do not use detergents, solvents and abrasives. Be sure to protect the product from harsh sunlight, heat sources and humidity.
VINYL
Ordinary dirt and stains can usually be removed with mild soapy water: Spot clean affected area with the soap and water mixture. Dab with a lint free cloth until semi dry. Do not rub the product – this can lead to discoloration. Leave the affected area to air-dry, or dry carefully with the low setting of a hair dryer. Do not use any concentrated household ammonia/chlorine or bleach-based cleaners.
OTHER
POLYPROPYLENE
Polypropylene is a durable thermoplastic polymer which is resistant to many chemicals and solvents. Most marks on polypropylene furniture can be removed with warm soapy water. Stubborn marks can be treated with common household cleaners and solvent products such as methylated spirits. Avoid harsh scouring powders and abrasive cloths or brushes. The best way to ensure that you can enjoy the products for years to come is to clean them regularly to prevent the build-up of excessive grime.
ETHYL VINYL ACETATE (EVA)
Regular cleaning with a soft cloth, slightly damp with water and a mild detergent, is an important factor in ensuring the longevity of EVA. Use only neutral detergents completely free of alcohol, ammonia or solvents. Avoid abrasive cleaners and materials which will cause damage.
EVA has a “closed cell” type structure which generally prevents the build-up of bacteria and fungi. Consequently, regular household detergents usually suffice for cleaning.
WERZALIT
During the manufacturing process the melamine surface is treated to be mildew and bacteria resistant, and the product as a whole is heat and impact resistant.
For best results wipe with a damp soft cloth. For stubborn marks, use a non-abrasive cleaner. Do not scrub the surface with an abrasive cleaner (such as Jiff) as this often leads to surface damage and discoloration.