Office furniture in Kenya isn’t just about looking good—it’s about making your workspace comfortable and functional. From that sleek ergonomic chair that saves your back during long workdays to the sturdy desk that holds all your essentials, furniture plays a key role in productivity. But here’s the thing: like anything else, furniture needs care to last. If you’ve ever looked at a scratched desk or a wobbly chair and thought, “Could I have prevented this?” the answer is yes. Let’s dive into how to care for your furniture so it looks good and works well for years to come.
Daily and Weekly Care to Keep Things Fresh
Dust and spills might seem harmless, but they can build up and wear things down over time.
1- Dusting Regularly
You know how dust just appears out of nowhere? Your desk, shelves, and even your office chair aren’t immune. Use a microfiber cloth or duster to gently clean surfaces at least once a week.
2- Spot Cleaning Spills
We’ve all had that moment—knocking over coffee or smudging ink on the desk. When this happens, don’t panic. Grab a damp cloth with a bit of mild soap and clean it right away. Just skip those harsh cleaners; they can do more harm than good.
3- Protecting Surfaces
Think of coasters, desk mats, and covers as your furniture’s armor. They protect against scratches, spills, and general wear. If you have a rolling chair, a mat under it saves your floor from those annoying wheel marks.
4- Vacuuming Upholstery
Fabric chairs tend to collect crumbs, dust, and who knows what else. Vacuum them weekly to keep them fresh. If you’ve got leather or faux leather, a quick wipe with a damp cloth works wonders. Add a little conditioner every now and then to prevent cracking.
Simple Tricks to Prevent Damage
You’ve heard the saying, “Prevention is better than cure,” right? The same goes for your office furniture. A few simple habits can make all the difference in keeping things in tip-top shape.
a) Watch the Weight
Overloading shelves or desks can cause them to sag or break. Keep heavier items on lower shelves to maintain balance and prevent accidents. Your furniture will thank you.
b) Avoid Direct Sunlight
Sunlight is great, but not for your furniture. It can fade colors and weaken materials like wood and leather. Position your furniture out of direct sunlight, or use curtains or blinds to limit exposure.
c) Use Furniture Correctly
Sure, it’s tempting to stand on a chair to reach something high, but that’s a fast track to damage (and possibly a trip to the doctor). Use your furniture as it’s meant to be used—it’ll last longer and work better.
d) Check Movable Parts
Over time, screws can loosen, and hinges might creak. Regularly check and tighten screws on chairs and desks. A little lubrication on metal parts keeps everything moving smoothly.
Deep Maintenance for Long-Term Use
Sometimes, your furniture needs more than just a quick clean. Periodic deep maintenance can extend its life significantly. Think of it as giving your furniture a little TLC.
- Polishing and Conditioning Wood
Wood furniture loves a bit of attention. Every few months, polish it to bring back the shine and protect against moisture. Use a wood conditioner to prevent drying and cracking—it’s like a moisturizer for your desk! - Refreshing Upholstery
For fabric chairs, consider a good steam cleaning once or twice a year. Leather furniture benefits from occasional conditioning to keep it soft and free from cracks. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference. - Replacing Worn-Out Parts
Don’t toss a chair just because a wheel broke or a desk because a drawer handle fell off. Most parts can be replaced easily and cheaply. It’s much more budget-friendly than buying new furniture. - Professional Repairs
When damage is beyond your DIY skills, call in the pros. A carpenter can fix wooden furniture, while technicians can handle issues with adjustable chairs or other mechanical parts. It’s worth it to keep your investment in good shape.
When everything is clean, functional, and well-maintained, you can focus better, work smarter, and even enjoy your time at the desk a little more.
