Tips on choosing and taking care of furniture

Furniture is defined as movable objects such as chairs, tables and sofas that are used to make a home or establishment fit for living or working. Furniture is basically what turns a house to a home. It showcases the home owner’s style depending on how it’s arranged and the choice of color or material. It’s therefore very important to know how to choose furniture and how to take care of it.

Types of furniture

There are different types of furniture in the market. Shopping can be overwhelming when you do not know your options. Understanding the different types can help you know what you require for each room. Let’s explore the different types that are used in homes and offices.

• Living room furniture – The living room is considered the center of the home. There should be enough seating for your family and a few extra for guests. After placement of the furniture you should leave enough paces for movement. The options for your living room include; sofas, chair, tables, cabinets, coffee tables, entertainment centers and chest.
• Dining room furniture – The dining room is a place where your family can gather and have meals together. Tables, stools and chairs are some of the types of furniture you may include in your dining room.
• Bedroom furniture – The bedroom is a room that can be furnished to suit you and your significant other. Since it a personal room for the two of you, you have the freedom to decorate it however you want. Beds, dressers, chests and nightstands are some of the furniture that is useful in a bedroom.
• Office furniture – Office furniture should create a productive environment that you can work in. Office chairs, desk, bookcases and storage cabinets are key items that can be included.

How to choose furniture

Now that you are aware of the different types of furniture available, it’s time to know how to choose the right one. The following are the basics of choosing furniture.

• Storage is an important element to consider. Having the right furniture to place different items minimizes clutter from your home. You can choose the type of furniture that doubles up as storage space. For example a bed built with hidden drawers where you can place other items.
• The types of furniture chosen should match your lifestyle. Selecting a single theme and sticking to it is important. Different types of themes include western, modem and Victorian. You can also select different themes for certain rooms as long as it all flows nicely together. The theme will assist you to select the types of furniture that will create your desired effect.
• Consider what’s right for your home. It’s important to keep in mind the type of space you have, its size and design. Before going to shop for furniture measure the size of the space. This will guarantee that you choose the type that will fit.
• Draw the plan on piece of paper. This will assist you to know how the furniture will sit in a room. This will also assist you not to buy unnecessary items that may not find a place in your house or office. Remember to leave enough space so that drawers and doors open unimpeded.
• It’s important to consider the type of material your furniture is made of. Metal, veneer and solid wood are the types used in construction of furniture. Solid wood is always an investment when properly cared for. Although veneer is not as good as solid wood, it is light and affordable.  When constructed correctly it can look as good as solid wood. Metal furniture is very easy to look after, durable and tends to lightweight.
• Furniture color is also vital. The color should match well with that of the walls and any existing furniture. Light colors should be avoided in a household with kids since they stain easily. Dark wood furniture works best when placed in larger rooms. Small rooms work with light furniture which creates an element of space.
• Have a budget in mind. When you overspend on certain items you may end up not getting everything you want.

Ways to take care of furniture

Furniture is a good investment and taking care of it will ensure it remains attractive and usable for a long time. Here are few tips toconsider:

•          Wooden furniture will require polishing and cleaning to keep it in excellent condition. You can get it polished by a professional once every year or two. Whenever your furniture gets a scratch, restore and treat it before it get worse. Also remember to take care of the parts that are not visible since the damage may spread from there to other parts. Wooden pieces should also be kept away from direct sun as it bleaches and degrades it. Use gentle and natural cleaning agents to avoid staining. Coasters should be used since wood absorbs moisture which leads to cracks.
•          Leather furniture may change appearance after prolonged periods of use. Stains that are soluble in water should be wiped of immediately using a clean soft cloth and lukewarm water. Leather furniture should be protected from heat, sunlight and drying out to ensure it lasts long. Dust removal with a clean white damp cloth and vacuuming with a soft brush should be done regularly. Chemicals should never be used on leather. Contact a furniture store for guidance in case of stains. Covers, blankets and sofa cushions can be used to protect the leather.
•         Extra care should be taken when it comes to upholstery fabrics. Keep rough clothing away from it since details like belts or rivets can pull out threads and increase wear of the fabric. Covers and protective sleeves can also be used since the furniture is used pretty much every day. Pets should also be kept away since hair, nails ad scraping damages the fabric. Always check that the fabric fiber can withstand the detergent before using it.

Furniture is a great way to invest in your home or office. You need to choose correctly and give it proper care and attention. Follow the tips above to ensure timeless beauty and durability of your furniture.