You’ve chosen your perfect Sherborne chair and had it fitted in-store to suit your needs - now it’s time to keep it looking and feeling as good as new for years to come. With expert advice from our team here at Duncan’s of Banchory, along with guidance from the specialists at Sherborne, we’ve put together a helpful care guide to get the most out of your new furniture.
Caring for Soft Covers
Sherborne soft fabrics are beautifully made and designed to last. To keep them in top condition:
- Vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt.
- Clean stains promptly with a damp cloth and mild soapy water (never overwet the fabric). For more stubborn stains, professional cleaning is advised.
- Aquaclean fabrics only need water for most stains, with a touch of soap for the tougher ones.
- Chenille and pile fabrics may show signs of shading or pile crush over time, this is natural and not a fault. Regular brushing and occasional steaming can help minimise this effect.
Seatwraps and Upholstery Fit
The extra softness in chaise-style seatwraps can create a slightly looser appearance compared to traditional seating. You may notice:
- Minor "bagginess" or "wrinkliness", which can often be smoothed out by hand.
- Misaligned seams or joins, again, gently adjust them by hand after use.
For added protection, armcaps are available for most models to reduce wear on the arms. Also, try to avoid:
- Direct sunlight, which may fade colours.
- Sharp objects or pet claws that could snag or damage the fabric.
Showwood details (wooden arms or legs) should be dusted daily with a soft cloth. For any grease marks, use a diluted mix of warm water and vinegar, avoid spray polishes which may damage the finish.
Leather Upholstery Care
Leather chairs bring timeless style and luxury to your home. To maintain that showroom-quality finish:
- Dust and vacuum regularly with a soft cloth.
- Wipe with a damp cloth in circular motions, never overwet. Dry immediately.
- For more intensive cleaning, add mild soap (not detergent) if necessary.
- Avoid: saddle soap, waxes, or spray polishes, they can cause irreversible damage.
- Consider using a neutral Leather Cream to restore shine (use only approved leather care products).
- Be cautious: over-cleaning or over-applying creams may wear away the finish, especially with antique leathers.
- Keep leather away from direct sunlight and heat sources (radiators, fireplaces), and avoid scratches from zips, belts, or studs.
General Maintenance Tips
- Rotate and flip cushions (if reversible) to reduce creasing and spread out wear evenly.
- Plump up fibre-filled back cushions regularly to maintain their shape and comfort.
- Avoid sitting on armrests or cushion edges, which can cause distortion.
- Be aware that minor colour variations may occur between dye batches, this is completely normal and part of the uniqueness of each piece.
At Duncan’s of Banchory, we want you to enjoy your Sherborne chair for many years to come. With regular care and a little TLC, your chair will remain a stylish and supportive part of your home. If you have any questions or need tailored advice, our team is always happy to help, whether you're buying your first Sherborne or looking after a long-loved favourite.