During the Industrial Revolution, the appearance of metal had a profound impact on design in architecture and furniture. The availability of iron and steel revolutionized construction techniques, enabling the creation of large-scale structures with unprecedented strength and stability. Architects and designers embraced metal as a versatile and durable material, leading to the emergence of many iconic designs. In furniture design, metal allowed for intricate and ornate detailing, bringing a sense of elegance and industrial aesthetic to pieces. The use of metal in both architecture and furniture during this era marked a significant shift in design possibilities and set the stage for modern construction and design practices.

The most common metals and finishes used today are: powder coated iron or Aluminium, Stainless Steel, Aluminium, and chrome or other plated steels. Overall, metal makes an ideal material for furniture as it does not wear and tear easily, is very robust, highly recyclable, and will look good for many years to come with very simple maintenance procedures.

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Cleaning icon.

Cleaning

Chrome & polished, plated metal

  • Wipe with a damp cloth soaked in warm water with a mild detergent. Dry with a soft cloth.

Stainless steel & brushed metal

  • Using a soft cloth with warm water and dishwashing detergent is one of the best ways to clean stainless steel.
  • Alternatively, you can use any commercially available stainless-steel cleaner. Make sure to always use a soft cloth, and exercise caution when connected to other materials.

Powder coated metal

  • Clean regularly by dusting and using a solution of water and mild soap on a soft cloth or brush.

Aluminium

  • Clean regularly by dusting and using a solution of water and mild soap on a soft cloth or brush. Alternatively, you can use a solution of 1 part vinegar and 1 part water instead of soap.

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Accidents

Chrome & polished, plated metal

  • Alcohol will help to remove tougher grime.
  • Water can cause light rusting on the surface. You can use a metal polish to remove rust.

Stainless steel & brushed metal

  • If you see any signs of corrosion, use an all-purpose lubricant such as WD-40 or stainless steel cleaner. Rinse with clean water on a damp cloth.
  • Ink and oil stains can be removed with alcohol or xylene, however you must exercise caution when near other materials, and you must test on an inconspicuous area.

Powder coated metal

  • If the coating gets scratched and bare metal is visible, apply a lacquer or wax to seal it. This will avoid rust from any water exposure.

Aluminium

  • If lightly scratched or scuffed, rub a dry scouring pad in the direction of the grain, in a back-and-forth motion. Then, pour a small amount of metal polish onto a microfiber cloth and rub in the direction of the grain in a back-and-forth motion.
Best practices icon.

Best Practices

Chrome & polished, plated metal

  • Using a quality dedicated polish intended for chrome will keep it looking brand new.

Stainless steel & brushed metal

  • Removing any standing water left on the surface will prevent watermarks.

Powder coated metal

  • Don’t handle roughly, as scratching it will expose bare metal, leading to rust.

Aluminium

  • Always promptly pick up any liquids, stains, or grime to avoid making long term care more difficult.
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Avoid

Chrome & polished, plated metal

  • Avoid using acidic or alkaline cleaners, or anything with ammonia such as a glass cleaner.
  • Handle with care when exposed to high (direct sun) or low (below zero) temperatures.

Stainless steel & brushed metal

  • Do not use cleaning products that contain any chlorides or abrasive chemicals.
  • Handle with care when exposed to high (direct sun) or low (below zero) temperatures.

Powder coated metal

  • Powder coated items may rust when used in high humidity areas.
  • Avoid using abrasive pads as these will scratch the powder coating.
  • Avoid using solvents as they will dissolve the powder coating.

Aluminium

  • Never use acid cleaners
  • Don’t use abrasive pads or cleaners.
  • Handle with care when exposed to high (direct sun) or low (below zero) temperatures.
Please note : While the care and maintenance information provided is sourced from reliable and trusted industry experts, Qubik Furniture cannot be held responsible for any damages that may occur as a result of following our product maintenance guides. We highly recommend exercising caution and test in an inconspicuous area before applying any cleaning or maintenance methods to your furniture.