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1. How should I clean and maintain my SENTIENT furniture?
2. How do I protect my wood furniture from water rings and stains?
3. Can scratches on solid wood furniture be repaired?
4. Does solid wood furniture need humidity control?
5. How do I care for a live edge table?
6. What is the best way to care for upholstered furniture?
7. How do I maintain metal bases and accents?
8. Can SENTIENT refinish or restore furniture after years of use?
9. How do I care for outdoor furniture?
10. Does SENTIENT furniture come with a warranty?

How should I clean and maintain my SENTIENT furniture?

For daily cleaning, SENTIENT recommends a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, ammonia-based products, and abrasive sponges. For oil-finished surfaces, periodic reapplication of hardwax oil (once or twice a year, depending on use) restores protection and luster. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent moisture from penetrating the finish. Simple, consistent care keeps the wood looking exceptional for decades.

How do I protect my wood furniture from water rings and stains?

Use coasters and trivets to protect SENTIENT furniture from water rings and heat marks. Our finishes are designed to resist moisture, but prolonged contact with water or hot objects can mark the surface. If a water ring does appear on an oil-finished piece, it can usually be buffed out with fine steel wool and a fresh coat of hardwax oil. Prevention is always easier than repair.

Can scratches on solid wood furniture be repaired?

Yes. One of the advantages of SENTIENT’s solid wood construction is that scratches and minor surface damage can be repaired. Light scratches on oil-finished pieces can be addressed with fine sandpaper and reapplication of oil. Deeper scratches may require sanding and refinishing a section. Because we use solid wood throughout, not veneer, the surface can be refinished multiple times over the life of the piece.

Does solid wood furniture need humidity control?

Solid wood performs best in stable humidity between 35% and 55%. SENTIENT kiln-dries all lumber before fabrication to stabilize moisture content, but extreme fluctuations in humidity can cause slight expansion, contraction, or movement over time. In dry climates or during winter heating season, a room humidifier helps maintain stable conditions. Avoid placing furniture directly next to radiators, heating vents, or in direct prolonged sunlight.

How do I care for a live edge table?

Live edge tables from SENTIENT receive the same finish as our standard furniture and require the same care. Clean with a soft cloth, use coasters, and reapply hardwax oil periodically. The natural edge may have small bark inclusions or textured areas. These are intentional and part of the piece’s character. If the edge feels rough over time, a light application of oil restores its smoothness. Learn more about our live edge furniture.

What is the best way to care for upholstered furniture?

For SENTIENT upholstered furniture, vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris. Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can push stains deeper into the fabric. For leather, use a leather conditioner every six to twelve months. Commercial-grade fabrics used in our hospitality projects are treated for stain resistance and fade resistance, making them easier to maintain in high-traffic settings. View our upholstery options.

How do I maintain metal bases and accents?

SENTIENT metal finishes, including blackened steel, brushed brass, and polished steel, are sealed to protect against oxidation. For routine care, wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Brass and steel will naturally develop subtle patina over time, which many clients prefer. If you want to maintain the original finish, a light application of furniture wax provides additional protection. See our metal finish options.

Can SENTIENT refinish or restore furniture after years of use?

Yes. Because SENTIENT furniture is built from solid hardwoods with traditional construction, it can be refinished and restored. If your piece needs attention after years of use, contact us to discuss refinishing options. We can sand, restain, and refinish surfaces to look like new. This is one of the real advantages of investing in solid wood: the furniture can be renewed rather than replaced.

How do I care for outdoor furniture?

SENTIENT’s outdoor furniture is built from weather-resistant species like teak and ipe. These woods naturally resist rot, insects, and moisture. Over time, outdoor wood develops a silver-gray patina. If you prefer to maintain the original color, apply a UV-protective oil annually. For upholstered outdoor pieces, we use solution-dyed acrylic fabrics and open-cell foam that resist moisture, mildew, and fading. Store cushions during extended periods of bad weather.

Does SENTIENT furniture come with a warranty?

SENTIENT stands behind the quality of every piece we build. Our furniture is constructed to last generations using solid hardwoods, traditional joinery, and hand-applied finishes. If you experience a structural or craftsmanship issue, contact us directly. We take care of our clients and our furniture long after delivery. Specific warranty terms are discussed during the ordering process.

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