New Home on the Coast
How to Protect and Maintain Key Home Furnishings in Sunny & Humid Conditions
Your home is a reflection of your personality and style, and maintaining its essential features not only enhances its beauty but also extends its life. Proper care of specific items like engineered hardwood, wool area rugs, and animal hide rugs is critical, especially when exposed to unique conditions such as direct sunlight and high humidity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to protecting and maintaining these items.
Engineered hardwood is more resistant to humidity than solid wood, but it can still warp, swell, or develop mold in consistently high-humidity environments.
Maintenance Tips:
- Control Humidity Levels: Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to maintain an indoor humidity level between 30-50%.
- Proper Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum sand regularly. Mop regularly using a damp (not wet) mop, avoiding excess water, and dry immediately.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow by using exhaust fans in areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Protect from Spills: Quickly clean up any spills to prevent water from seeping into the wood. Avoid leaving wet bathing suits & towels for long periods of time.
- Sealants: Reapply protective sealants if needed to maintain the integrity of the finish.
Natural Animal Hide Rugs
Animal hide rugs are durable but require careful maintenance to keep them soft and avoid cracking or drying out. They can also trap dirt and moisture, leading to damage over time.
Maintenance Tips:
- Shake Out Dirt: Regularly shake the hide outside to remove dirt and debris.
- Vacuum Gently: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently clean the surface. Avoid using the beater bar as it can damage the hide.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor spills, blot the area with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking the hide, as excess moisture can cause the rug to harden.
- Condition the Hide: To prevent the hide from drying out, apply a leather conditioner once or twice a year.
- Keep Dry: Avoid placing hide rugs in damp areas or areas prone to spills to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Additional Tip:
Rotate the hide rug periodically to distribute wear evenly and prevent it from becoming matted.
WOOL, SISAL & JUTE AREA RUGS
Wool, Sisal and Jute are natural fibers, prone to shedding, staining, and damage from moisture and moths. It requires delicate care but can last for decades with the right approach.
Maintenance Tips:
- Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum both sides of the rug, but avoid using high suction, as it may damage the fibers.
- Rotate Rugs: Rotate the rug every few months to prevent uneven wear.
- Spot Clean: Use a mild detergent and water solution for small spills, and blot rather than rub to avoid spreading the stain.
- Deep Cleaning: Professionally clean wool rugs once or twice a year, depending on foot traffic.
- Moth Protection: Use moth repellents or store wool rugs properly when not in use.
Additional Tip:
To prevent fading, avoid placing wool rugs in direct sunlight.
If you're eager to discover more about maintaining natural products in your home or wish to schedule an in-home consultation for professional guidance, feel free to visit my website or reach out to me, Anna Belmarsh, by phone at:
850-533-6656