Care & Maintenance
At SOBU, we believe that caring for your furniture should be simple and intuitive—just like the pieces themselves. As a small, family-run company, we (Laleh and Alessandro) personally oversee every design and production detail, ensuring that each piece we offer is something we would proudly have in our own home. We design with longevity in mind, using natural materials like solid wood (never veneers), reclaimed wood, FSC-certified timber, and natural fabrics. Our finishes are carefully chosen to enhance and preserve the beauty of each material, allowing your pieces to age gracefully and develop a rich patina over time.
We care deeply about our customers and the homes our pieces become part of. Below, you’ll find easy care instructions to help your furniture stay beautiful for years to come. These are not pieces designed for the landfill—like so many from the big-box brands—but for real life, real use, and for passing along when your story moves on. Each piece we offer is a reflection of our values, our attention to detail, and our commitment to sustainable, well-crafted design.
Discover our recommended care essentials—simple ways to protect and preserve your pieces for years to come.
Wood
To clean varnished wood surfaces, regularly dust with a dry cloth to prevent buildup. For spills or deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with natural soap—never harsh chemicals or detergents—and always wipe in the direction of the wood grain. Be sure to dry thoroughly with a soft, clean cloth to avoid water spots.
To protect the finish and preserve your furniture for years to come, lift rather than drag pieces when moving them. Use coasters, placemats, or mousepads to shield surfaces from heat, moisture, and friction, and never place hot pots, pans, or cold glasses directly on the wood. Items like vases and flowerpots should be moved occasionally and any moisture wiped away promptly to prevent marks. Finally, try to keep furniture away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, and extreme temperature changes, all of which can damage the finish over time.
Metal
To clean the metal parts of your furniture, start by dusting with a soft, dry cloth. For more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water, then rinse and dry the surface completely to prevent moisture damage. Avoid using abrasive tools or harsh cleaners like steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acids, bleach, or chlorine, as these can scratch or corrode the finish. If your furniture is located in a high-humidity environment—especially near saltwater—it’s important to clean and dry metal surfaces regularly to prevent rust or deterioration over time.
Leather
Cleaning Leather Upholstery
Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth. Use a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water and mild detergent (3–5%) to clean, then follow with a clean, moist cloth to remove residue. Never rub—always blot gently.
Fabric
Everyday Upholstery Care
Lightly vacuum weekly using a brush attachment. For feather-filled cushions, shake and fluff regularly to keep their shape. Avoid sitting on upholstery in wet or sweaty clothing, as it can cause discoloration.
Can I use Upholstery Outdoors?
Upholstered furniture is for indoor use only unless otherwise noted. Keep it away from damp, humid conditions and direct sunlight.
Treating Stains on Fixed Upholstery
Address stains immediately by dabbing gently with a clean, white cloth. If needed, consult a professional cleaner. You may also apply a fabric protection spray—always test first on a hidden area.
Caring for Loose Covers
Blot stains promptly—don’t rub. Loose covers should be dry cleaned only (using hydrocarbon solvents). Expect minor shrinkage after cleaning; gently stretch the covers back into place. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Stone
Cleaning and Care
Wipe stone surfaces daily with a soft, slightly damp cloth. For stubborn spots, use a mild detergent diluted with water and clean gently—never scrub with abrasive tools. Always dry with a clean cloth to prevent streaks or water spots. To avoid stains, especially from acidic substances like wine, juice, or coffee, clean spills immediately.
Protection and Placement
Use coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect the surface from heat and moisture. Avoid placing stone furniture near direct heat sources or strong air conditioning. Keeping your piece in a stable environment helps prevent cracking, warping, or discoloration over time.