Wood Care

Wood’s natural response to changes in humidity is much more dramatic than the Customer may realize. Under normal conditions, wood products (hereinafter “Products”) of Sossego ™ (hereinafter “Company”) contain some moisture, and all woods, whether raw or finished, exchange moisture with the environment. Although an applied finish will slow this process, Products will continue to react to changes in humidity and environment. The degree of changes can range up to three-quarters of an inch from summer to winter months and are to be expected with all solid wood construction.

Wood does not change size or shape unless its moisture content changes due to fluctuations in humidity. When humidity is high, wood absorbs moisture and swells (or expands). When humidity is low, wood releases moisture and shrinks (or contracts).

Products perform successfully when correctly used in a proper environment. Products use only properly kiln-dried woods with an 8% moisture content to ensure stability in climate-controlled environments. Relative humidity in the space where the Product is located should be maintained within a range of 30%-45%. Spaces without proper temperature and climate control will likely experience swelling and/or shrinking of Products. Excessive variations in humidity will cause noticeable changes to Products, including but not limited to:

● Excessive gaps or overlapping of joints
● Warping
● Open joints
● Finish cracking or lifting

While Products are being created, we strive to maintain uniform relative humidity during the complete manufacturing process. Given the natural movement of wood, Company’s warranty does not apply if Products are exposed to extremes in temperature or humidity, or subtle variances in humidity changes in the installed Products’ environment.

General Maintenance

All finished wood requires regular maintenance to keep the finish looking as new as possible. To maintain and prolong the look of the finish, the following maintenance practices should be followed:

● Products should be dusted as often as needed using a dusting cloth treated to attract and hold dust or a lint-free cloth dampened only with warm water.
● Products may be cleaned using a damp cloth and a mild liquid detergent (if needed). Grease can be removed using a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water. DO NOT USE any scouring pads, harsh chemicals, powdered cleansers, ammonia-based products, or other abrasive or household spray cleaners on Products.
● After wiping and cleaning an area with a damp cloth, dry immediately with a lint-free cloth.
● Tighten bolts on chair bottoms. After a period of extended use, the bolts holding the legs and seat may loosen incrementally. Use a screwdriver to hand tighten the bolts so the seat is firmly attached to the legs.
● Replace/clean chair glides. The glides on the bottom of your chairs should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt. Dirt imbedded in the glides increases the wear on wood floors. Company can provide you with replacement glides if needed, but these parts are often available at your local hardware store.

Things to Avoid

To prolong the look and life of Products, avoid the following:
● Avoid placing plastic or rubber objects on a wood finish, as their ingredients react with those of the finish.
● Avoid wax polishes. Regular use of wax polishes may result in the buildup of wax film on the surface of Products. This build-up may then pick up dirt, smoke, and other pollutants in the air, which may result in smudges and streaks. Used long enough, this may cause the finish to soften, requiring expensive refinishing work.
● Avoid silicone polishes. Silicone oil is an ingredient used by many furniture polish makers to create a high degree of shine. Silicone seeps into even the most lacquered finishes, making it difficult to remove entirely. Should it become necessary to refinish a Product, silicone makes it a very difficult process, even for a professional refinisher.
● Don’t wipe your Product with a used dishcloth, as it can contain remnants of grease and other contaminants.
● Don’t drape damp or wet material over Products, as constant moisture will cause permanent water damage over time.

Outdoor Furnishings

Outdoor Maintenance Guide

Upholstery Care

Textiles

For cleaning and maintenance, Manufacturer’s suggestion for cleaning textiles is to seek a professional cleaning service.

Company uses a variety of textiles with different topical treatments or composition. Please consult with Company regarding the type of textile upholstered, before attempting any self or professional service.

Depending on textile composition, light, topical stains can usually be removed with a mild soap-and-water solution, using a clean lint-free cloth and wiping in light, circular motions, being careful not to saturate the fabric. Finish by rinsing the area thoroughly with clean water. Never use bleach, harsh, or abrasive detergents or chemical cleaning agents. Note: complete a spot test in an inconspicuous area of the textile and wait 24 hours before attempting to clean affected area.

To prolong the life of the materials, remove from direct sunlight and other elements when not in use and turn cushions regularly, if applicable.

Natural Leather

For cleaning and maintenance, Manufacturer’s suggestion for cleaning natural leathers is to seek a professional cleaning service.

Company uses a variety of leathers with different topical treatments. Please consult with Company regarding the type of leather upholstered, before attempting any self or professional service.

Depending on leather type, light, topical stains can usually be removed with mild soap-and-water solution, using a clean lint-free cloth and wiping in light, circular motions, being careful not to saturate the fabric. Finish by rinsing the area thoroughlywithcleanwater.Neverusebleach,harsh,orabrasivedetergentsorchemicalcleaningagents.Note: ifyouare uncertain of the leather type, consult with Company before any action is taken.

Untreated leathers are sensitive to their environment, body oils and food stains. Do NOT clean in the same manner as a treated leather. Professional cleaning is advised.

To prolong the life of the materials, remove from direct sunlight and other elements when not in use and turn cushions regularly, if applicable.

Faux Leather

For general cleaning or stain removal, use mild soapy water or a cleaning agent specially recommended for faux(man-made) leather.