CLEANING UPHOLSTERY
Most of our Clients purchase Smithe Kote fabric protection made with Dupont Teflon.  If you did not purchase Smithe Kote and your furniture is in your home and has not yet been stained, inquire about in-home application.

Below are general guidelines for removing stains from upholstery.  Never RUB the stained area.  Gently BLOT out stains with a white absorbent cloth.

1. Gently blot the stained area with an absorbent white cloth.  If the stain has dried, scrape away excess before blotting.
2. If the stain remains, test a stain removal agent in an inconspicuous area first to insure it is colorfast.  If it is, apply a small amount of the stain removal agent to the stain with a soft towel.  Wait one minute for the stain removal agents to go to work.
3. Gently blot the area with a clean part of the cloth until no more of the stain transfers to the towel.
4. Allow area to dry.  Repeat the stain removal process if the stain persists.

If stain still persists, contact your warranty services representative for a professional cleaning reference.

See the Smithe Kote section of this guide for further information on Smithe Kote warranties.

INFORMATION ABOUT LEATHER
Smooth leathers are best for heavier use because they are easier to clean.  Nubuck and Suede leathers are more absorbent and harder to clean.

With normal use, leather will lighten in color and become softer.  Wrinkles, slight cracks, and a shine will naturally develop.

No two hides will be colored the same because each area of the hide absorbs varying amounts of dye.  This explains why the arm of a sofa may appear lighter than the back.  Leather bears the natural markings of the different hides from which it is made.  These markings, including brands, healed scars and patterns of original hair follicles are considered desirable because they define the piece as a natural original.

LEATHER UPHOLSTERY CARE
The guidelines below must be followed in order to be eligible for Warranty coverage.

Damage: Major stains, minor cuts and abrasions can often be removed for a fee.  Contact your warranty services representative for details.

Smooth Leathers: Remove dust and minor soiling from smooth leathers with a damp cloth once a month.  Saddle soap should never be used.  Contact your warranty services supervisor for cleaning instructions.

Suede and Nubuck Leathers: Gently vacuum once a month with the appropriate tool or brush.  Special stain eraser cloths are available from Walter E. Smithe to remove many, but not all, stains from suede.  Exposure to liquid spills should be avoided because suede leathers cannot be washed or cleaned like smooth leathers.  Do not use liquid cleaners on suede leathers.

UPHOLSTERY CARE
The guidelines below must be followed in order to be eligible for Warranty coverage.

1. Vacuum or brush upholstery once a month to remove dirt particles that damage fibers and cause premature wear and aging.  Although you cannot see the dust as you do on a table top, it accumulates just the same and can harm your upholstery if it is not regularly vacuumed away.

2. Rotate seat and back cushions and fluff pillows once a week to prevent premature cushion core wear and to control slippage of the welts and casings.  This will help maintain even wear and appearance.
   
   Furniture is designed to be soft and conform to the user's body with use.  Often it will not return to its original shape unless the seat and back cushions are plumped by hand after use.  This will become more necessary as the furniture ages.

3. Loose seat and back cushion casings should not be laundered or dry-cleaned.  Consult a profes­sional upholstery cleaner when your furniture starts to appear soiled.

4. Avoid exposing furniture to sunlight or HVAC outlets.  Avoid placing furniture close to vents, radiators or windows, and be sure to use window treatments to block the sun's rays.