High-quality furniture ages gracefully when treated correctly, and poorly when treated incorrectly. Most damage is not caused by use, but by using the wrong product. Here is what each material requires and what you should avoid.
Marble, Travertine, and Onyx
Calcareous stone is sensitive to acid. Lemon, vinegar, red wine, and many household cleaners etch dull spots into the polished surface that cannot be wiped away. Therefore: immediately absorb spilled liquids instead of spreading them, clean with clear water and a soft cloth, and regularly impregnate the stone, once or twice a year for light travertine. Coasters are not a furniture store sales trick for coffee tables, but the only effective protection.
Brass, Bronze, and Stainless Steel
Brushed brass is meant to darken. Polishing it bright removes the layer that gives it its warm tone, and accelerates tarnishing. Dry dusting is sufficient; for fingerprints, use a slightly damp cloth and immediately dry thoroughly. Do not use metal polish on antiqued surfaces, as the patina is applied and can be rubbed off. For lamps, switch off the power before each cleaning and never leave the metal wet.
Leather and Velvet
Leather needs distance from heating and direct sunlight, otherwise it will become hard and fade. Dust weekly, and re-grease once or twice a year with a suitable care product. Velvet and chenille on sofas do not tolerate moisture: dab stains, do not rub, and then brush the pile in one direction. Occasionally fluff up seating areas and swap cushions to distribute wear.
Wood
Oiled wood occasionally needs oil, lacquered wood only a damp cloth. Both dislike standing moisture and abrasive microfiber. For dining tables, the rule of thumb is: never place hot pots directly on the surface, as the heat shock will create light rings. Scratches on oiled surfaces can be sanded and re-oiled; this is not possible with lacquered surfaces.
Outdoor and Rugs
Outdoor furniture can withstand rain, but continuous dampness in winter is different. Teak naturally greys and remains stable, aluminum and synthetic wicker are insensitive, textile cushions belong indoors in a dry place. How to get your terrace through winter is explained in the guide Eichholtz Outdoor. For rugs, rotating them 180 degrees once a year helps prevent uneven wear from light and foot traffic; more information can be found under Eichholtz Rugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to impregnate marble?
For light, absorbent stone like travertine, once or twice a year; for dense polished marble, less frequently. A water droplet that soaks in darkly instead of beading is the signal.
May I polish brass?
It is better to only dust brushed brass. Do not polish antiqued surfaces under any circumstances, as the patina is applied and can be rubbed off.
What to do about a stain on velvet?
Immediately dab, do not rub, use clear water, and then brush the pile in one direction. For stubborn stains, it is better to ask before trying a cleaning product.
Personal advice
We advise you personally and online. Send us your room dimensions or a photo at info@casa-luxury.de and we will put together a suitable selection for you.
Each Material in Detail
This page provides an overview. Each material has its own page with explanations, characteristics, and mistakes that cannot be undone: Marble · Travertine · Brass · Stainless Steel · Oak · Glass · Leather · Velvet · Bouclé · Rattan and Wicker.
Eichholtz Care: Marble, Brass, Leather and Wood: Models from the Collection
A selection from the categories discussed on this page. Each image leads to the product page.
Continue in the guide: Eichholtz Quality and Materials · Eichholtz Outdoor · Eichholtz Sofas · Eichholtz Overview