Caring for Natural Materials

Natural materials change over time, and that is part of their appeal. Wood warms in colour, linen softens with washing, and ceramic gathers the small marks of use. Looked after sensibly, they age gracefully. Neglected, they stain, warp or fade. This guide covers the general care of the materials you will find across our range. Where a product has its own care note, follow that first, because it is more specific than anything here.

Wood

Wood reacts to its surroundings, particularly heat and moisture. Pieces such as the Oak Side Table and the Wooden Serving Tray do best when treated gently.

• Wipe spills straight away and dry the surface. Do not leave water standing.
• Use a coaster under cups and a mat under hot dishes.
• Keep wood out of strong direct sun and away from heaters and air conditioner outlets, which can dry it unevenly.
• Dust with a soft, dry or barely damp cloth rather than a soaking one.
• Do not put wooden items in the dishwasher or leave them soaking in the sink.

Linen and cotton

Linen and cotton are tough, breathable fabrics that suit warm weather. Linen creases easily, which many people like, and it gets softer with every wash. The Linen Cushion Cover has its own care note: machine wash cold on a gentle cycle and line dry. Cold washing and line drying are a safe habit for cotton too, whether it is the Woven Cotton Throw or the Washed Cotton Bedding Set.

• Wash dark and bright colours separately for the first few washes in case they release dye.
• Avoid strong bleach, which weakens fibres.
• Dry in shade where you can; strong sun fades colour over time.
• Shake out and reshape cushion covers while damp for a neater finish.

Ceramic and stoneware

Ceramic is hard but brittle. The Sculpted Ceramic Vase and the Stoneware Planter are best cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid sudden temperature changes, and be careful when moving a heavy pot, especially once it is full of soil. For vases that hold cut flowers, rinse them out between bunches so the inside does not stain. The Ceramic Table Lamp comes with its own note: wipe with a dry cloth and do not immerse it. Always switch off and unplug a lamp before cleaning.

Woven baskets and rugs

Woven pieces such as the Natural Storage Basket are made from fibres that dislike a soaking. Dust them with a dry brush or soft cloth and keep them away from damp corners. A rug like the Hand-Loomed Accent Rug should be vacuumed gently, without a harsh beater bar, and turned now and then so that wear is even. If something spills, blot rather than rub, and test any cleaner on a hidden corner first.

Candles and diffusers

Scented candles last longer and burn more cleanly when treated well. Trim the wick before lighting, never leave a flame unattended, and keep candles away from curtains and children. A reed diffuser should stand on a surface that tolerates oils, as spills can mark wood. Keep both out of strong sun.

Humidity and the monsoon

In humid months, natural materials absorb moisture. Do not store textiles damp, and give wardrobes and baskets some air. If you notice a musty smell, air the item in a dry, shaded spot. Wood can swell slightly in humidity and shrink again as the air dries, which is normal movement rather than a fault.

When to stop and ask

If you are unsure about a stain or a mark, test a cleaner on a hidden area, or message us on WhatsApp before trying anything strong. Gentle methods first is the rule that saves most pieces.

Good care is rarely complicated. Soft cloths, mild soap, shade, and a little attention go a long way. Browse the Decor and Fragrance collection for pieces that reward this kind of care.