CARE & MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS

GENERAL ADVICES

Impact of light

All materials are affected by sunlight and to avoid bleaching, furniture should therefore be protected from direct sunlight.

Damage to surfaces

Be careful if you place hard or sharp objects on your furniture, use liners or felt pads or simular. Do not pull objects over the surface, it may be sand grains or similar even under a soft cover that can scratch the surface. Rubber pads on equipment can give marks on the surface that may require cleaning. Even jewelry, bracelets and watches can in certain situations scratch a surface, you should use writing underlays if you know that you have things that can scratch the furniture surface. Care should also be taken that computer mice are whole and clean and do not scratch or stain the surface when used, we recommend mouse mats for best function.

However, be sure to move the mouse mat and other items on the furniture sometimes so that the surface matures evenly on wooden surfaces. This is most important when the furniture is new, when a mature surface is reached, the changes take place much more slowly.

Shelf carriers are possible to place in different positions from the factory and if you are going to move them you must be aware that you can easily damage the surface around the hole if you remove the shelf carrier screw.

Regarding seating furniture, there is a risk that rivets, buttons and the like can scratch a surface or damage the upholstery. You should also make sure that chairs have furniture pockets and that they are whole and clean so that no scratching of sensitive flooring material takes place. Hard blows to surfaces and edges as well as scraping, for example by careless handling, can damage the material and paint can be struck or scraped.

Screw joints

On solid wood furniture, shrinkage and swelling occur during the year so screws and fittings should be checked and tightened if necessary. A check should preferably be done spring and autumn. A loose screw joint can create instability, cause noise and also shorten the life of the furniture.

Moving furniture

A furniture must be lifted and must not be pushed out if it is not designed for it, since the furniture can be subjected to lateral forces it is not designed for as a result of damage. When moving, the furniture shall loaded, this also applies to furniture that is designed to be able to be moved.

Change of product

No alteration of the product design and components is permitted. If this happens, no guarantee is valid and you can put yourself or others at risk. The change also assumes product responsibility.

Disinfection

Our furniture in laminate and HPL can be disinfected. Flat surfaces on veneered and stained furniture can be disinfected, but avoid the edgings. Drying should be done with a clean, soft cloth and water. Avoid disinfectants that contain bleach and hand disinfectants as these contain additional substances that can leave stains. Keep in mind that dirt reduces the activity of disinfectants in various ways, for example by binding the disinfectants to the dirt to some extent instead of to microorganisms. Some disinfectants can fixate/lock dirt on surfaces and thus encapsulate microorganisms that become difficult to access under the fixed dirt. Surfaces that appear dirty to the eye should first be cleaned with a detergent before disinfecting the surface with a disinfectant. If the disinfectant contains surfactants (cleaning agents), it is not necessary to clean the surface before applying the agent.

TEXTILE

Regular cleaning is important for the furniture fabric to maintain its quality and last longer. Dust and dirt wear on the fabric and also impair its flame retardant properties.

Vacuuming with a soft nozzle is generally sufficient when cleaning fabric. Stains should always be removed as soon as possible. In most cases, it is sufficient to wipe off with a damp cloth, but for more severe stains you can use a pH-neutral detergent or a detergent for professional use. Always use white rags and avoid wetting a woolen fabric to a greater extent, as this will risk staining. Wipe in circular motion toward the center of the stain. The furniture must be completely dry before it is used again.

If necessary, a foam detergent can be used for a more thorough cleaning if allowed in the fabric specification. Removable fabrics can either be water washed or dry washed according to the specification of the respective fabric.

The different textile materials are cleaned differently, and you should always follow the recommendations that apply to each material. If you are unsure whether you have synthetic or wool fabrics on the product, it generally applies that wool fabrics are more often matte, while synthetic fabrics usually have  a certain gloss in the yarn. You can also try to drip a drop of water on the fabric, if the liquid remains on the surface initially it is usually a wool product, although there are exceptions in treated synthetic fabrics, while if the liquid directly penetrates into the fabric it is probably a synthetic product. To minimize the risk of contamination and spread of bacteria and viruses, good hygiene, good maintenance and regular cleaning of the fabrics are important. Note that there is a difference between bacteria and viruses, as they are different types of microorganisms. They can occur on different surfaces and materials. Bacteria can grow on a surface and multiply, while viruses lack the ability to thrive and reproduce outside a host body. Studies show that viruses can survive on textiles for a number of hours, depending on the type of virus, under normal indoor and dry conditions. We recommend that you follow
the guidelines of local authorities for more information. Before disinfecting textiles, it should be thoroughly cleaned. Note that by disinfecting the fabric, some color fading may occur. Use neutral ethanol as pink ethanol can stain the fabric. Ethanol can also damage the fabric's flame retardant properties. Keep in mind that hand alcohol / gel that remains on the hands when touching the furniture can cause damage and permanent stains. Like cleaning with a surface disinfectant, it is therefore important to remove traces of these as soon as possible so that the materials are not damaged.

WOOL FABRIC

Wool is antistatic and does not attract dirt as easily as other fabrics.

In addition, wool is also water-repellent, so liquid penetrates slowly into the fabric.

To maintain the beautiful appearance of the fabric, gentle vacuuming is recommended, preferably weekly, with a soft brush.

A golden rule is to always remove stains as quickly as possible! Most stains can be removed with a regular pH neutral detergent, diluted in lukewarm water of normal strength (follow the instructions on the bottle). Keep in mind that too much moisture can cause some shrinkage and change in appearance.

• First, soak up as much of the liquid as possible, with white paper towels or a clean towel.
• If the stain has dried in, remove as much of it as possible by vacuuming.
• Gently rub with a clean, white cloth.
• Press the cloth with a dry towel or a white paper towel every time water is added to remove moisture and dirt.
• Use clean water without detergent for final cleaning.

The area may appear darker than the surrounding fabric after cleaning with water.

This will become less noticeable over time.

SYNTHETIC FABRIC

The biggest difference compared to wool is that synthetic fabric behaves like plastic, in that the fibers do not absorb liquid and moisture. This means that liquid and stains remain on the surface of the fiber rather than penetrate inside. Synthetic material does not prevent liquid from passing through the fabric to the foam. More regular cleaning is needed than wool, as the synthetic fabric's static charge attracts dust and dirt, which can cause dirt and wear on the fabric surface.

• Spray a light mist with a cleansing solution consisting of lukewarm water and a small drop of mild soap / detergent using a spray bottle.
• Work the solution into the stain by gently touching around the entire fabric surface, wash the fabric from edge to edge, with a sponge or brush with very soft bristles. Avoid scrubbing, and do not use a hard brush or anything that can tear the fabric.
• Rinse the entire fabric thoroughly to remove any residue from the soap.
• Soak up any water left with a clean, soft towel or sponge.
• Soak up or use a wet vacuum cleaner to remove any water left over from the entire fabric surface, from edge to edge.
• Air dry. Repeat rinsing and soaking until all soap residue is gone.
  
  

LEATHER

Leather is a natural material with variation in structure and character. For it to be preserved it needs to be looked after.

Care Instructions

Leather is sensitive to sunlight. Protect your leather upholstered furniture from direct sunshine or heat from a heat source. Dust regularly with a soft cloth Vacuum clean with a soft brush and clean extra exposed parts if necessary. Wipe up stains as soon as possible, Water-soluble stains are bathed and soaked with white cloth or paper towels. Use water-based leather care products. Follow the instructions from the supplier.

Dry dirt: mix some mild detergent or soap flakes in lukewarm water. Moisten a soft cloth, wring it out thoroughly and wipe off the stain. Then dry with a woolen cloth. Then allow to dry for a while. Finally, treat with a thin layer of leather care products.

Liquids: Immediately absorb the liquid with an absorbent cloth. Don't rub!

Food / oil: treat according to the instructions for dry dirt. If the stain is still visible, then do nothing more. The leather will slowly absorb the stain.

Use regular water-based leather care products. Follow the instructions from the supplier.

ARTIFICIAL LEATHER

Coated fabrics usually have good resistance to daily wear. With regular maintenance, they retain their original softness and shine longer. Synthetic leather should be cleaned regularly (at least once a week) to maintain its surface and to prevent the build-up of dirt and bacteria. Be extra careful with light colors, which are more sensitive to dirt. All stains, dirt or other contamination should be washed off immediately to reduce the risk of permanent
stains. Some clothes and accessories contain dyes (used in jeans, for example) that migrate to, above all, lighter colors. The risk of this phenomenon increases at high temperature and humidity and the discoloration that can then occur is almost impossible to remove. Avoid prolonged exposure to heat sources and regularly remove all traces of sweat. Do not use undiluted alcohol and / or acetone, abrasive cleaners, solvents, perchlorethylene, all types of wax or trichlorethylene as these may cause immediate permanent stains and damage the surface of the fabric. For artificial leather care advice, see the respective fabric supplier’s website or contact your local sales representative.

DISINFECTION

To minimize the risk of contamination and spread of bacteria and viruses, good hygiene, good maintenance and regular cleaning of the fabrics are important. Note that there is a difference between bacteria and viruses, as they are different types of microorganisms. They can occur on different surfaces and materials. Bacteria can grow on a surface and multiply, while viruses lack the ability to thrive and reproduce outside a host body. Studies show that viruses can survive on textiles for a number of hours, depending on virus type, under normal indoor and dry conditions. Studies show that
viruses can survive on textiles for a number of hours, depending on virus type, under normal indoor and dry conditions. In most cases, it is best to quarantine the furniture for at least 48 hours. We recommend following local government guidelines for more information and follow the advice on disinfection from the textile suppliers - take a look at their recommendations after having chosen a fabric to ensure that the cleaning is handled correctly. 

Before disinfecting textiles, clean them thoroughly.

Polyester and Trevira CS

To prevent viruses and bacteria on polyester and Trevira CS fabrics, clean and wash regularly with soap and water.

It is also possible to sometimes disinfect with ethanol-based disinfectants (70-85%), by spraying or drying directly on the fabric. The fabric should not get completely wet in order to prevent the agents from penetrating to the foam underneath the fabric. The foam can withstand a small amount - but does not handle being soaked.

• Surfaces must be cleaned prior to disinfection with ethanol, since ethanol is easily inactivated by organic matter.
• Spray a thin even layer. The fabric does not need not be soaked in order to have an effect. Then allow to dry before use.
• Use a clean cloth moistened with ethanol when drying, as if to wipe off any other surface. Allow to dry before use.

Since alcohol evaporates, it is not necessary to wipe away disinfectant with a clean cloth and water. Note that by disinfecting the fabric, some color bleaching may occur. Use neutral ethanol as pink ethanol can color the fabric. Ethanol can also damage the fabric's flame retardant properties.

Woolen fabrics

The natural surface layer of the wool fiber is less favorable for microorganisms. Wool is known to have antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of various types of microorganisms, such as mold, bacteria and viruses. It is important to keep wool dry as water plays a key role in wool fiber's relation to microbes.

In case of contamination, furniture upholstered with woolen fabric should preferably be left unused in the least recommended time span according to information from the responsible authority.

For woolen fabrics we recommend professional cleaning. If this is not an alternative, woolen fabric can be disinfected with ethanol. Ethanol-based disinfectants can be used, but the ethanol will, however, destroy the wool's natural fat (lanolin), cause color changes and reduce the life of the fabric. Consequently, this method should only be applied if there are absolutely no other alternatives.

Artificial leather

It is important to point out that even though most artificial leather can be cleaned with alcoholic cleaning agents, the majority require that these agents be wiped with a water-soaked cloth, as the alcohol otherwise dries out the artificial leather and causes it to loosen / crack. Kinnarps offers artificial leather that can be disinfected without post-drying with water. Check with your local sales office for instructions on how to clean your chosen artificial leather with disinfectant. Keep in mind that most artificial leathers are sensitive to rubbing alcohol / gel if this is allowed to remain on the surface, and damage can occur especially in connection with abrasion.

HARD MATERIALS

General cleaning

Daily cleaning: Wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth. Rough cleaning: Wipe the surface with a soft, slightly damp cloth. A mild detergent can be used. For stain removal, use detergent without abrasive.

Impact of Liquids and Tape

Strongly colored liquids such as coffee and wine should be immediately wiped off, although most of Kinnarp's surface materials have good resistance to this type of stains, they may discolor in some situations.

Adhesive tape and other foreign substances such as, for example, adhesive, hand sanitizers and sunscreen creams and skin cream can soften the paint film and lead to flaking / discoloration

WOOD

Wood is a living material and therefore every piece of wood furniture is unique from the beginning and has a natural variation in pattern, color tone and luster. Direct sunlight will give permanent color and light differences in the surface, so expose the entire wooden surface to as much light. The wood is affected by, among other things, season, heat and humidity.

Clear lacquered wood has a durable surface and is best handled by dust drying and cleaning with mild soap solution or dishwasher detergent. Never use aggressive detergents, solvents or products containing abrasives. Always wipe dry with a dry cloth.

Use under layers for flower pots, plates, coffee cups etc. where spills can be risked. Remove all stains as soon as possible and wipe the surface dry after cleaning.

Warning! Avoid using large quantities of water and strong detergents.

LAMINATE

Laminates are durable and can withstand normal wear and tear. These are very durable surfaces that fit well in public environments. Daily cleaning: Wipe with a soft dry cloth. Rough cleaning: For stain removal, use a mild detergent without abrasives. Rings and stripes formed on the surface are most easily removed with window cleaning agents.

Hard ingrown stains or discolorations can usually be removed by the gentle use of cleansing cream or paste with mild abrasive action. Do not use rubbing pads or steel wool as it will cause scratches. Ink and ink marks can be removed with e.g. acetone or alcohol on a clean cloth. Try on a less visible surface first

The rough and dull surface of the Gray Oak laminate can be difficult to clean in some situations. The laminate manufacturer recommends a special preparation, Tanex power

Unfortunately, a cleaning means that the matte surface can become slightly shinier on the cleaned part, if so should clean the entire disc so as not to get shinier zones on the surface. Try a less visible part of the surface first

Disinfection can be done with alcohol if the surface is after dried. HPL surfaces can withstand disinfectant even without after drying.

LINOLEUM

Linoleum, solid color matte

For regular cleaning, dust off the surface with a dust cloth or Clean the surface with a soap-based diluent, diluted in water, or alternatively hand-wash or pH-neutral detergent for light soiling. For harder stains, a white nylon cloth can be used to rub lightly with cleaning. After cleaning, wipe the surface dry.

To maintain the surface, a mixture of water and natural soap or wax should be used regularly. If the surface has been neglected or severely worn, a solution of water and natural soap or wax can be used to upgrade the linoleum.
To prevent stubborn stains, always use underlayers for cups, vases, glasses, etc. It is important to remove stains as soon as possible to prevent them from penetrating the material.

To remove stains, clean the surface with a neutral detergent and water.

If the above treatment does not help, try soaking the surface in water with a pH-neutral universal solution for a few minutes. Gently scrub the surface with a white pad or similar. Finish by wiping off the dirty water with a cloth. Some pigmented spots can be removed or made less visible by the use of turpentine or similar oil-based solvent. Do not use alkaline or alcohol based detergents as this will damage the surface.

Marmoleum

For normal cleaning dust off the surface with a dust cloth or Clean the surface with a soap-based cleaning product

PLASTIC

Wipe the surface with a solvent-free or abrasive detergent and soft cloth, regular dishwashing detergent works well.
Avoid placing products with plastic components in direct sunlight and too close to heat sources as this can lead to discoloration and / or brittleness.

METAL

Daily cleaning lacquered surface: Wipe with lightly moistened, soft lint-free cloth and mild detergent.
Daily cleaning surface lacquered surface: Wipe with slightly damp, lint-free cloth and mild detergent.
For heavily soiled chrome, aluminum or stainless steel, a moistened soft cloth with alcohol can be used.
Disinfection can be done with alcohol if the surface is dried.

GLASS

Clean with window cleaner or detergent diluted in water

ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS

Keep all liquid away from electronic installations. Should it happen to immediately pull out of the cord and then dry up if liquid has penetrated into the installation, specialist expertise should be asked for action.

• Keep contacts, sockets, keypads and other open electronics free of dust and dirt using a vacuum cleaner or slightly damp cloth. Never dry directly in sockets.
• To reduce the wear of the cables and connections try to keep the cables separately secured.
• Avoid wires lying against sharp edges or squeezed in doors or against table tops / cable gutters etc to reduce the risk of wear.
• Never divert cord socket as this may cause overload.
• All installation of electronics must be done by qualified personnel
• No modification of wires, couplings etc is allowed.