At LaCOUR, we understand that your furnishings are more than just functional pieces — they're investments in your space's aesthetic and atmosphere. Our comprehensive care and maintenance guide is designed to help you preserve the beauty and integrity of your LaCOUR furnishings. From everyday cleaning to addressing specific concerns, we provide expert recommendations tailored to each material type, ensuring your pieces continue to make a statement for years to come.
Materials and Finishes
Care and Maintenance
Laminate & Metal
Daily Care for Laminates
For routine cleaning of laminate surfaces, wipe with a damp cloth or sponge using mild soap or detergent, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely. This simple practice prevents buildup and maintains the laminate's finish.
Addressing Stains
Use a mild household cleaner with a soft-bristled brush for stubborn stains on laminate surfaces. For persistent stains, a paste of baking soda and water applied with gentle scrubbing (10-20 strokes) is effective for most stains without damaging the surface.
Metal Components
Clean metal parts with a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and water. Dry immediately to prevent water spots. For polished metals, the occasional application of a quality metal polish appropriate for the specific finish will maintain luster.
Important Precautions
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Always use trivets or heat shields under hot items to prevent damage
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Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can permanently damage surfaces
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Never use steel wool or abrasive pads on any laminate or metal surface
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Wipe up spills immediately, especially from harsh chemicals like drain cleaners
Formica®
Routine Maintenance
Formica® surfaces require minimal maintenance. Simply wipe with a damp microfiber cloth and mild detergent for daily cleaning. For a streak-free finish, follow with a clean, dry cloth.
Stain Removal
For difficult stains on Formica surfaces, apply a non-abrasive household cleaner with a soft cloth or sponge and rinse thoroughly. For stubborn stains, allow the cleaner to sit briefly before wiping clean.
Protecting Your Surfaces
Formica is durable but not indestructible. Always use cutting boards for food preparation and placemats or trivets under hot cookware. Avoid sliding rough or heavy objects across the surface to prevent scratches.
Avoiding Damage
Never use harsh chemicals on Formica surfaces, such as oven cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, or rust removers. These contain aggressive compounds that can cause permanent damage to the material.
Wilsonart®
Daily Cleaning
Wilsonart® laminate surfaces are easily maintained with a quick wipe using a damp sponge and mild soap or detergent. Always rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry to prevent residue buildup.
Stubborn Stain Removal
Coffee, tea, and other difficult stains can be removed using a mild household cleaner and a soft-bristled brush. For persistent stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water with a soft brush, using light pressure for 10-20 strokes.
For Extremely Stubborn Stains
In cases of resistant stains, undiluted household bleach or nail polish remover may be used. Apply to the stain for no longer than two minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely. This may be repeated if the stain is fading without affecting the laminate color.
Heat Protection
Always use heat shields, hot pads, or trivets to prevent marring or damage when placing hot pans or heat-producing appliances on Wilsonart surfaces.
Important Cautions
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Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage laminate surfaces
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Drain cleaners containing lye will permanently damage Wilsonart laminate
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Never place items directly from the oven or burner on unprotected surfaces
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Do not use steel wool or abrasive pads for cleaning
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Recommended cleaners include Windex®, Glass Plus®, Fantastik®, Mr. Clean®, Formula 409®, and isopropyl alcohol
Veneer
Daily Care
Natural wood veneers should be dusted regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth. For cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth, followed immediately by drying it with a soft cloth to prevent moisture damage.
Enhancing and Protecting
Apply a high-quality furniture polish or wax recommended for wood veneers every 3-6 months to maintain the natural beauty and provide protection. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
Environmental Considerations
Position veneer furniture away from direct sunlight and heating/cooling vents to prevent fading and cracking. Maintain consistent humidity levels (40-60%) to prevent the wood from expanding or contracting.
Addressing Damage
Minor scratches in the veneer can often be addressed with touch-up markers or sticks designed for wood furniture. For deeper damage, consult a professional furniture restorer to maintain the piece's value and appearance.
Special Precautions
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Always use coasters under beverages to prevent water rings
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Clean spills immediately to prevent staining or warping
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Never place hot items directly on veneer surfaces
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Avoid alcohol-based products that can damage finishes
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Use felt pads under decorative items to prevent scratches