Office furniture is an important investment for any business or teleworking space. Regular maintenance not only prolongs its life, but also helps maintain a professional appearance and a pleasant working environment. A well-maintained office also contributes to employee well-being and productivity. In this article, we give you practical advice on how to clean, maintain and protect your office furniture to keep it in excellent condition for many years to come.
1. Understanding materials and their specific needs
Office furniture can be made from a variety of materials, each requiring special care to prevent premature wear.
Solid wood and wood veneer
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid excessive humidity, which can cause the wood to swell or warp.
- Use specific products to nourish and protect the surface without leaving greasy residues.
- Protect surfaces with coasters and desk mats to avoid scratches and stains.
Melamine and laminate
- Clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Avoid abrasive products which may scratch the surface.
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent seepage and internal damage.
Glass
- Use glass cleaner or a mixture of water and white vinegar to remove fingerprints and dust.
- Handle with care to avoid shocks that could cause cracks.
- Add rubber pads under heavy objects to avoid scratches.
Metal
- Clean with a microfiber cloth and a mild solution to prevent oxidation.
- Treat scratches with touch-up paint to prevent rust.
- Check screws and fasteners to avoid structural instability.
Fabric, leather and vinyl
- Vacuum chairs and armchairs regularly to eliminate dust and allergens.
- Use suitable products (mild soap for leather and vinyl, textile cleaner for fabric).
2. Regular cleaning and good practices
Frequent cleaning helps prevent the build-up of dust, stains and premature wear.
- Set up a maintenance schedule according to how often you use your furniture.
- Use non-aggressive products to avoid damaging finishes.
- Disinfect work surfaces to limit the spread of germs, especially on handles, shared desks and chair armrests.
- Check the condition of moving parts (castors, hinges, jacks) and lubricate if necessary to prevent premature wear.
3. Protecting and preventing wear
Adopting good day-to-day practices can prevent many problems and keep furniture in good condition for longer.
- Use the right type of castors on chairs to avoid wear and tear on floors and castors.
- Avoid overloading shelves and drawers to prevent structural deformation. Always respect the manufacturer's recommended weight.
- Install felt glides under furniture to avoid scratches on the floor, if your furniture doesn't come with glides, which are often made of plastic or felt.
- Avoid shocks and impacts that could damage finishes and structures.
4. Repairs and preventive maintenance
Rather than waiting for a problem to occur, preventive maintenance can reduce replacement costs.
- Replace damaged parts immediately to prevent a minor problem from escalating.
- Tighten screws and bolts as necessary to ensure chair stability. Although most screws are fitted with what is known in the trade as "loctite", it is possible for a screw to become loose, depending on use.
- Check the alignment of doors and drawers and adjust if necessary to avoid damage to the furniture.
- Call in a professional for more complex repairs, such as refinishing furniture, filing cabinets or ergonomic chairs.
5. Tips for sustainable, eco-responsible furniture
Maintaining your furniture also means adopting a sustainable and responsible approach.
- Choose recyclable materials when purchasing new furniture.
- Opt for quality furniture that will last longer.
- Reuse and repair rather than replace whenever possible.
- Use Canadian-made products to limit environmental impact.
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Proper maintenance of office furniture not only extends its lifespan, but also improves the comfort and appearance of your workspace. With a few simple, regular gestures, you can preserve the condition of your furniture and avoid unnecessary expenses. By adopting a preventive and responsible approach, you can ensure an optimal working environment for you and your employees.
Need advice on choosing durable, easy-to-maintain office furniture?
Solutions M3 can support you in your furnishing projects with quality furniture tailored to your needs.