All vintage items are restored by our expert team, however it is important to note that vintage pieces often display signs of wear, and a vintage patina that we believe contributes to the value and unique character of each piece. It is important to maintain a high standard of care and maintenance to ensure the longevity of your special find.
Please note, the information below is a general guide. Modern Times assumes no responsibility in relation to the use of this information.
Timber
Solid timber and timber veneer are natural materials that require some special care. With the proper care, your piece of furniture will last a long time and stay looking beautiful.
Routine Maintenance
- Dust regularly with a soft damp cloth
- Wipe up any spills immediately with a soft damp cloth
- Always wipe in the direction of the grain
- Reduce the risk of damage by using coasters and placemats
- Objects should be lifted not dragged across the surface
- Use protective pads underneath items with a rough base, such as pottery
- When cleaning, wipe the surface in the direction of the grain with Orange Oil. This will both clean and nourish the timber. Wipe dry with a clean, dry cloth
- Twice a year: apply Liquid Beeswax with a soft cloth, allow to dry for half an hour then buff back using a soft, dry cloth.
Stains and Scratches
Rub the surface lightly in the direction of the grain with No. 000 steel wool – Try applying Orange Oil or apply a scratch-removing polish with a colour and value that simulate the tone of the timber (We recommend Howard’s Restor-A-Finish)
For advice on deep scratches or any other questions about the care of your purchase don’t hesitate to get in touch for further advice.
Extra Information
Be cautious when placing food or drink on top of wood furniture - excessive heat from pots, pans, or dishes without a buffer or a pot holder can damage the finish of a wood furniture. Condensation from cold drinks or items can cause "blooming," where a transparent coating or finish will become milky or cloudy. If you catch this happening soon enough, you can rub out the cloudiness with a dry, soft cloth, but otherwise may damage your furniture.
Leather
We use and stock a product to care for Leather called Renapur. Renapur is a blend of natural ingredients including beeswax and jojoba oil, the balsam will feed and nourish your leather keeping it soft and supple and will prevent it from drying out. Vintage leather tends to already have some patina from its previous life however Renapur is neutral so it won’t change the base colour but it will change the tone slightly. It won’t correct any previous patinated areas or stains but it can help to even them out.
Leather does dry out depending on its environment. If the sofa is in direct sunlight or heated room over time the leather will dry out. We recommend to use renapur once a year to give it some nourishment.
Marble
Marble is a porous material that requires special care and will develop a patina over time. It should be treated in a similar way to a fine timber finish.It can be easily stained; vinegar, citrus, and tomato will etch marble so don’t let them sit on the stone.
Reduce the risk of damage by using coasters and placemats.
Wipe up any spills immediately with a soft damp cloth.
Do not use acidic or abrasive cleaners.
Metal
Brass and chrome are commonly used materials and finishes on both new and vintage furniture. We like the patina that comes with age but there are a few simple cleaning methods.
Wipe with hot, soapy water using a soft cloth and dry thoroughly.
For an extra shiny finish use a little sprinkle of baking powder on a vinegar soaked cloth.
Avoid commercial metal cleaners as they can be very abrasive and remove chrome plating.
