Care Guide
Each James & James piece is crafted from solid hardwood-strong, enduring, and uniquely yours. Like all natural materials, it deserves a touch of care.
Hardwood
Cleaning
To preserve the finish of your piece, utilize a soft cloth dampened with warm, soapy water for your daily cleaning routine.
We recommend regular dusting with a microfiber cloth to maintain the surface's natural clarity.
Please avoid the use of commercial furniture oils or polishes, as these can create a waxy buildup that dulls the authentic luster of the wood over time.
Maintaining Your Heirloom Furniture
Proactive Measures
To preserve the pristine condition of your surface, always utilize coasters, placemats, or trivets to safeguard against moisture marks, stains, and heat. It is essential to avoid placing hot items directly onto the wood, as extreme temperatures can damage the finish.
Keep a Stable Environment
Wood flourishes in steady conditions. Maintain consistent humidity levels and avoid placing pieces near direct heat or sunlight, which can cause drying or warping. Air conditioning or a dehumidifier can help during humid months.
Mind the Humidity
Ideally, indoor humidity should hover around 40–50%. A simple hygrometer can help you monitor levels and ensure your furniture feels perfectly at home.
Gentle Temperature
Aim for a comfortable indoor temperature between 60–75°F. While small fluctuations are fine, large swings can affect the wood over time.
Thoughtful Placement
Protect your piece from direct sunlight to prevent fading or damage to the finish. Avoid spots near frequently opened doors or drafty windows, and steer clear of areas with extreme temperature changes. Choosing the right spot ensures your furniture remains as timeless and enduring as the day you brought it home.
Expandable Table Leaf Storage and Integration
Proper Storage To ensure your wooden table leaf remains in pristine condition when not in use, store it flat in a clean, cool, and shaded environment - ideally under a sofa, bed, or within a closet. We recommend avoiding upright storage, as leaning the leaf can lead to permanent warping over time. In more humid climates, consider wrapping the leaf in a breathable, vapor-resistant material, such as an old cotton bedsheet, to protect against moisture and surface mold.
Acclimatization and Fitting Because natural wood expands and contracts with changes in the air, a leaf may occasionally require time to reacclimatize if it has been stored in a different environment than the table. If you find the fit is not immediate, place the leaf in the same room as the table for a few days to allow the fibers to adjust to the local temperature and humidity. When integrating the leaf, ensure the alignment pins and tracks are free of debris and guide the pieces together gently without forcing.
Unless otherwise specified, our collections are designed exclusively for interior environments. To preserve the integrity of the wood and its finish, these pieces should not be transitioned to outdoor settings.
Performance Linen
This section applies to: Natural Linen and Sand Linen
Cleaning
Spot clean, using a mild water-free solvent or dry cleaning product. Clean only in a well ventilated room and avoid any product containing carbon tetrachloride or other toxic materials.
Do not bleach.
Professional Care
Professional Cleaning Code: S. Clean with mild, water-free solvents.
Textured Linen
This section applies to: Oatmeal Basketweave
Cleaning
Spot clean, using the foam only from a water-based cleaning agent such as a mild detergent or non-solvent upholstery shampoo product. Apply foam with a soft brush in a circular motion. Vacuum when dry.
Do not bleach.
Professional Care
Professional Cleaning Code: W. Clean with water-based solvents.
Performance Bouclé
This section applies to: Bisque Bouclé
Cleaning
Spot clean, using the foam only from a water-based cleaning agent such as a mild detergent or non-solvent upholstery shampoo product. Apply foam with a soft brush in a circular motion. Vacuum when dry.
Do not bleach.
Professional Care
Professional Cleaning Code: W. Clean with water-based solvents.
Bouclé
This section applies to: Stone Bouclé
Cleaning
Spot clean, using a mild water-free solvent or dry cleaning product. Clean only in a well ventilated room and avoid any product containing carbon tetrachloride or other toxic materials.
Do not bleach.
Professional Care
Professional Cleaning Code: S. Clean with mild, water-free solvents.
Mohair
This section applies to: Mink Mohair
Cleaning
Clean only by vacuuming or light brushing with a non-metallic, stiff bristle brush.
Do not bleach.
Professional Care
Professional Cleaning Code: X. Vacuum only.
Velvet
This section applies to: Latte Velvet
Cleaning
Spot clean with a mild solvent, an upholstery shampoo or the foam from a mild detergent. When using a solvent or dry cleaning product, follow instructions carefully and clean only in a well ventilated room. Avoid any product that contains carbon tetrachloride or other toxic materials.
Do not bleach.
Professional Care
Professional Cleaning Code: W/S. Clean with water-based or dry solvents.
Ultraleather
This section applies to: Beige Leather and Toffee Leather
Cleaning
Regularly clean with soap and water to prevent excessive dirt accumulation. Wipe up any spills as soon as they occur.
For standard cleaning, use alcohol-based cleaners (such as Fantastik or Formula 409) or the foam from a mild detergent. For stubborn stains, wipe the area with isopropyl (rubbing alcohol) as soon as possible.
Sanitization and Care
Disinfecting: You may sanitize the surface using a 20% bleach and water solution, or hydrogen peroxide/quaternary-based disinfectants.
Rinsing: Always thoroughly rinse all solution residue with clean water.
Drying: Allow the fabric to air dry naturally.
Steel
Cleaning
To preserve the clear-coated finish of your steel bases, utilize a soft cloth dampened with warm, soapy water for your daily cleaning routine.
For a more thorough refresh, always rinse with clean water and dry immediately with a soft towel to prevent water spots or oxidation. We recommend regular dusting with a microfiber cloth to maintain the surface's natural clarity and prevent debris from scratching the coating.
Please avoid the use of commercial cleaners containing bleach, ammonia, or strong solvents, as these can degrade the protective clear coat and lead to peeling or discoloration over time.
Maintaining Your Metal Bases
Proactive Measures
To preserve the pristine condition of the coating, avoid using abrasive tools such as steel wool or scouring pads, which will create micro-scratches and dull the finish. For an added layer of protection against fingerprints and moisture, an occasional application of non-abrasive furniture or automotive wax can help maintain the luster.
Keep a Stable Environment
Metal components with clear finishes perform best in controlled indoor settings. While the coating provides a barrier, extreme moisture or salt-heavy air can eventually find its way through microscopic imperfections in the finish, potentially leading to corrosion beneath the surface.
Mind the Spills
Wipe up spills—especially acidic liquids—immediately. If allowed to sit, these substances can chemically react with the clear coat, leaving permanent marks or "etching" that cannot be easily buffed out.
Thoughtful Placement
Choose a spot away from high-traffic areas where the bases might be frequently kicked or struck by vacuum cleaners, as physical impacts can chip the clear coat.
Unless otherwise specified, our steel bases are designed exclusively for interior environments to prevent the rust and degradation that occurs with outdoor exposure.