Product Care & Maintenance Instructions
Last Updated: 24 August 2026
Thank you for choosing Barking Road Furniture (barkingroadfurniture.com)! We offer a range of brand new furniture including Living Room Furniture, Kitchen Furniture, Outdoor & Patio Furniture, Lighting, Baby & Kids Furniture, Patio Dining Chairs, and Accent Stools.
To help you preserve the beauty and functionality of your furniture for as long as possible, we recommend following the care and maintenance instructions below.
1. Upon Receipt and Initial Preparation
When your furniture arrives:
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Inspect Carefully: Check the packaging and the item for any damage that may have occurred during transit. If you notice any damage, note it on the delivery receipt and contact us within 48 hours.
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Unpack Gently: Remove all packaging materials carefully to avoid scratching or damaging the furniture. Dispose of packaging responsibly.
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Assemble Correctly: If assembly is required, read the instruction manual carefully. Assemble the item in the room where it will be used, if possible, to avoid moving it later. Use the tools provided or the recommended tools.
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Position with Care: Place the furniture in its desired location. For larger items, use appropriate lifting equipment or ask for assistance to prevent injury or damage to the floor.
2. Daily Care & General Maintenance
Regular care helps maintain the appearance and longevity of your furniture:
General Guidelines:
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Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth to dust surfaces. For wood furniture, dust in the direction of the grain.
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Clean Spills Immediately: Blot (don’t rub) spills with a clean, absorbent cloth. Use appropriate cleaning products for the specific material.
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Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading or discolouration. Position furniture away from windows or use blinds/curtains to filter light.
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Control Humidity: Extreme humidity can warp wood or cause rust. Maintain a consistent indoor humidity level (ideally between 40-60%).
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Prevent Scratches: Use felt pads under objects, and avoid dragging items across surfaces. Keep sharp objects away from furniture.
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Lift, Don’t Drag: When moving furniture, always lift it rather than dragging it to prevent damage to legs and floors.
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Check and Tighten: Periodically check screws, bolts, and joints and tighten them if necessary.
3. Care by Furniture Type
| Furniture Type | Care Instructions |
|---|---|
| Wood Furniture | Dust with a soft, dry cloth regularly. Use a high-quality furniture polish or wax every few months to nourish the wood. Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water rings. Avoid placing hot or wet items directly on the surface; use coasters and trivets. |
| Metal Furniture | Clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Dry thoroughly to prevent rust. For outdoor metal furniture, apply a protective wax or sealant annually to protect against the elements. |
| Glass Furniture (Tables, Shelves) | Use a glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the glass. Check and tighten any fittings regularly. |
| Upholstered Furniture (Sofas, Chairs) | Vacuum regularly using a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris. Rotate cushions periodically to ensure even wear. For stains, use a specialist upholstery cleaner following the manufacturer's instructions. Consider professional cleaning for deep cleaning. |
| Outdoor Furniture | Clean with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely. Cover or store indoors during extreme weather (e.g., heavy rain, snow) to prolong life. For metal, check for rust and treat promptly. For wood, apply a protective sealant annually. |
| Leather Furniture | Wipe with a soft, damp cloth and mild leather soap. Condition with a leather conditioner every 6-12 months to prevent cracking. Keep away from direct heat sources. |
4. Care by Product Category
| Category | Specific Care Tips |
|---|---|
| Living Room Furniture | Vacuum upholstery weekly. Fluff and rotate cushions. Blot spills immediately. Use arm covers for high-use pieces. |
| Kitchen Furniture | Wipe down surfaces daily with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Use chopping boards and trivets. |
| Outdoor & Patio Furniture | Clean with mild soap and water. Rinse and dry. Store or cover when not in use. Apply protective treatments annually. |
| Lighting | Dust with a soft, dry cloth. For glass or metal, use a damp cloth and dry immediately. Ensure lamps are unplugged before cleaning. Replace bulbs with the correct wattage. |
| Baby & Kids Furniture | Clean with mild, non-toxic cleaners. Check regularly for loose parts. Follow age and weight guidelines strictly. |
5. Common Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Scratches on Wood | Use a wood touch-up marker or wax stick that matches the finish. For deeper scratches, consult a professional. |
| Water Rings on Wood | Gently buff with a soft cloth and a mixture of toothpaste and baking soda, or use a specialised wood ring remover. |
| Loose Joints or Screws | Tighten screws or bolts using appropriate tools. If the problem persists, contact us for advice. |
| Fading or Discolouration | Move the furniture away from direct sunlight. Consider using UV-protective film on windows. |
| Wobbly Table or Chair | Check all screws and bolts are tight. If the item has adjustable feet, adjust them for stability. |
| Squeaky or Stiff Drawers | Apply a small amount of beeswax or paraffin wax to the drawer runners. Avoid using oil-based lubricants. |
| Rust on Metal | Remove rust with a wire brush or rust remover, then apply a rust-inhibiting primer and paint. |
| Stains on Upholstery | Blot immediately. Use a specialist cleaner appropriate for the fabric type. For stubborn stains, consult a professional cleaner. |
6. Assembly Tips
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Read the instruction manual fully before starting assembly.
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Tools: Ensure you have the necessary tools (screwdrivers, allen keys, etc.) as listed in the manual.
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Spare Parts: Check all parts against the parts list before assembly. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact us immediately.
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Two-Person Assembly: For larger or heavier items, we recommend two-person assembly for safety and ease.
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Professional Assembly: For complex items, hiring a professional assembly service is recommended.
7. Quick Tips for Longevity
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Use Furniture Protectors: Apply felt pads under lamps, vases, and other items to prevent scratches.
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Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the recommended weight limits for shelves, tables, and chairs.
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Regular Rotation: Rotate cushions and mattress toppers to ensure even wear.
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Climate Control: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas and avoid placing furniture in overly dry or humid environments.
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Pets and Children: Protect furniture from sharp claws and sticky fingers. Use throws or covers on sofas and chairs.
8. What to Do in Case of a Problem?
If you experience a problem with your furniture within 48 hours of receipt, or if you discover a fault that is not due to normal wear and tear, contact us immediately. In accordance with our Returns & Refunds Policy, we will work to resolve the issue promptly, which may include a repair, replacement, or refund after verification.
9. Contact Us
If you have any questions about caring for your furniture, please contact our customer service team:
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By Email:
service@barkingroadfurniture.com -
By Phone:
+44 20 7925 1861 -
By Post: 317 Barking Road, London, E13 8EE, United Kingdom
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Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (UK time)
10. Website Hosting Information
In accordance with legal requirements, we provide the following information about our website hosting provider:
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Hosting Provider Name: SHOPLINE HOLDINGS LIMITED
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Registered Address: 21/F, NAM WO HONG BUILDING, 148 WING LOK STREET, SHEUNG WAN, HONG KONG
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Contact Number:
+852-81207281 -
Email:
support@shopline.com