GUIDES & RESOURCES
WE WANT YOU TO LOVE YOUR ACUMEN COLLECTION FURNITURE AS MUCH AS WE DO.
TO ENSURE THE LONGEVITY AND BEAUTY OF YOUR ITEMS, WE SUGGEST FOLLOWING OUR CARE GUIDELINES.
Your new furniture may well last you a lifetime! Like all cherished possessions, it will need a bit of TLC in order to be properly looked after. Taking this extra bit of care will mean you can watch the wood age with grace. The item you receive may already show natural colour variation, knots, shakes, and variation in the grain’s pattern. This is very much part of the natural charm of the materials we use. Solid wood is different to many materials as it will continue to move and adjust depending on its surroundings
SELECT YOUR MATERIAL:
WOOD | RATTAN & CANE | METAL | CONCRETE
WOOD CARE
Most of our wooden products are one-off or entirely handmade, so each individual piece varies slightly in appearance, which we think enhances its beauty. Most of our timber items have been sealed, however, please note that some timber (pine, teak and other hardwoods) is porous and will mark with oils, harsh detergents, bleaches and other liquids.
For cleaning, we recommend using a warm, damp cloth, with no chemical-based or abrasive products. If colour touch ups are required, we suggest purchasing a wax care kit in the correct finish. Wax is very simple to apply and will bring the wood back to its former glory. If in any doubt about how to protect your timber product please contact us direct and we will be happy to help.
We recommend that you avoid placing hot items like mugs or serving dishes on the surface without a coaster, tablecloth or placemat underneath. This will prevent marks, stains and warping of any kind.
Please keep in mind that splits and cracks may appear in your timber furniture. This should not be seen as a flaw as these changes will not compromise the construction or structural integrity of your piece. They will simply add to its beauty and story. For more information on wood characteristics click here.
RATTAN & CANE CARE
For all of our rattan and cane items we recommend indoor use. If you wish to use your piece outside it is important to keep out of direct sunlight, out of any rain and covered from the elements to maintain its longevity and appearance.
For cleaning we recommend brushing lightly with a dry, soft bristle brush and wipe with a soft, dry cloth with no chemical-based or abrasive products. This will ensure any dirt is removed from between the rattan reed strands and cane panelling. We suggest polishing with Fiddes clear wax to prevent the rattan or cane from drying out and protect its appearance.
While rattan and cane can withstand moisture to an extent, we advise that you keep your rattan and cane away from excessive moisture as it can cause the fibres to become limp and loose.
METAL CARE
RAW STEEL CLEAR LACQUER
Clean your raw steel with a clear lacquer finish first by wiping with a soft cloth to remove dust and dry debris, then wiping them down with a cloth or sponge dipped in a mildly soapy water. Wipe the steel again with a fresh damp cloth then dry them. The clear lacquer finish should prevent rusting, however if rust does appear at any stage during your furnitures life then follow the following instruction: Remove rust by cutting a square of aluminum foil several inches across. Dip the foil in water and wrap it around the table leg, rubbing gently. Friction causes a reaction between the metals and water, which creates a rust-removing polishing compound that polishes and cleans the table legs. After removing the rust, wipe the legs down with a soft, clean cloth to remove the homemade polish.
STEEL PIPE KITS & POWDER COATED STEEL
Simply clean with mild detergent and water. Avoid any abrasive cleaners or bleach as these can lead to clouding or scratching.
COPPER & NICKEL PLATING
Our Copper and Nickel finishes are electroplated over steel and require special care. They can and will tarnish over time when introduced to acidic foods, chemicals, oils, water quality, minerals, and cleaning products, etc. that will remove the nickel plating. Regular cleaning is important to maintain the living finish appearance of your nickel finished product. Use mild dish soap and a clean soft towel. A 50/50 water and white vinegar solution can be used to remove grime and oils. Avoid abrasives and polishes, including bleach based cleaners, such as Scrubbing Bubbles, Dawn Ultra, Lysol Basin & Tub, Soft Scrub and Tile Cleaner.
BRASS
Tarnishing is a natural layer of corrosion that occurs due to exposure to water and air on metals like silver, brass and copper. To keep tarnish at bay, you can polish every 6 months with a speciality cleaner. However, you can embrace natural patina as it will not compromise the function of your item.
Gently wash your brass items with soap and water as required, using a soft cloth or sponge and allow to dry completely prior to any polishing. Avoid any abrasive cleaners and stick to mild soap and water only. Brass products are not suitable for the dishwasher or microwave.
IRON
Most of the iron products that we stock can be dry cleaned or polished with a soft, microfibre cloth. However, you can gently wash your iron items with soap and water using a soft cloth or sponge and allow them to dry completely. Avoid any abrasive cleaners and stick to mild soap and water only.
Avoid putting your iron products in the dishwasher or microwave. And, please ensure any iron lighting products are switched OFF before you begin cleaning them.
CONCRETE CARE
A good rule of thumb for concrete is to avoid acids of any kind, including citrus, acid-based cleaners, vinegar and oils. Also, do not clean your concrete items with any abrasive chemicals or solutions.
To clean, simply wipe gently with warm water, a soft cloth and mild detergent if you wish. If any food or liquids are spilled onto the surface, wipe them immediately with a soft cloth.
Be mindful of heat and avoid placing hot items directly onto the concrete surface as this can lead to discolouration. Instead, use coasters, placemats or tablecloths.
Please note, the cleaning products you would for a concrete swimming pool are not appropriate for your concrete furniture or homewares. If you would like to use a sealant to protect your concrete furniture, you can apply one every six-twelve months.
Sustainably Sourced. Protect The Planet.
Acumen Collection's products provide customers with the guarantee that they are buying articles sourced from sustainably managed forests. By choosing Acumen Collection, you are helping to combat the illegal felling of trees and fostering the key roles played by forests such as: Contributing to the maintenance of a wide range of ecosystems and biodiversity. Acting as an economic lifeline for many rural communities as well as being the source of crucial processing and transformation industries. Playing a social and cultural role which is constantly growing in terms of recognition and awareness.