Beginner’s Guide to Eames Chair Maintenance and Care

Having an Eames Chair is more than just owning a piece of furniture, it is all about having a part of history. This chair was designed by Charles and Ray Eames by keeping the comfort of the human body in mind. But to keep your Eames Chair shining, proper care and maintenance is required. In this blog we’ll let you know the basics of maintaining and taking care of this timeless furniture.

Understanding the Eames Chair: Material and Construction

The very first thing you should do is understand the materials and construction of your specific Eames chair model if you want to take care of it properly. The Eames lounge chair comes in various styles and is made from different materials such as; moulded plywood, leather, fibreglass, and plastic. These different types of materials call for various methods in order to keep them looking good for long.

Moulded plywood and fine leather are used to make the well-known Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. The plywood has a glossy surface and rounded angles, whilst leather provides extra plushness. Whereas, Eames plastic chairs such as Eames Moulded Plastic Chair are produced from long-lasting polypropylene. If you want to know how to clean or care for your Eames chair, the first thing one needs to do is look at what material it is made of.

Cleaning Tips for Eames Chair

Regardless of the substance being used, it is important to have continuous cleaning for maintaining the elegance of your Eames style chair. Over time, dust and dirt clogging can accumulate thus causing a dull surface which might cause damage. The following steps will guide you on how to efficiently clean your Eames lounge chair:

• Dusting: A definitive dusting of your Eames chair with a mild and non-linty fabric should be done regularly. This regular cleaning stops dust from settling into cracks and guarantees that the way you desire your chair stays. For those areas that are difficult to access, consider using a soft-bristled brush.
• Wiping Down: The surface of the chair can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth for most materials. It is important to use clean water and avoid too much moisture because this will spoil some materials such as wood and leather.
• Cleaning Solutions: In case the chair is dirty and requires more than a wipe down, use a mild cleaning solution that suits the material. For example, plastic or fibreglass can be cleaned with water mixed with diluted soap while leather cleaners are best suited for leather upholstery. Always check any cleaner on a little spot before use to prevent staining or ruining it.

Caring for Leather Upholstery on Eames Chairs

When your Eames chair has a leather upholstery, maintaining its luxury charms requires special care. The natural material leather can get dry, split up or lose its colour if not looked after well. Instructions for caring for Eames chair’s leather are:

1. Regular Conditioning: It’s necessary to condition leather to keep it soft and to prevent it from cracking. A good leather conditioner should be used and applied with a soft cloth as indicated by the manufacturer. Conditioning nourishes the leather and also protects it from spills and stains.
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight: When leather is exposed to direct sunlight, it can lose its colour and hydration. Place your Eames chair farther from the windows or install curtains to stop harmful UV rays. In case relocating the chair is not possible, think about using a leather guard against sun rays.
3. Cleaning Spills: When you spill something accidentally on your Eames leather chair, take a fresh dry cloth and dab off the excess liquid right away. There should be no rubbing since it can cause the liquid to penetrate deeper into the skin. In case of more serious spills, use a cleaner for leather designed for your chair's specific type of leather.

Maintaining Wooden and Plywood Elements

Eames chairs are mostly made from wood or plywood materials including the Lounge Chair and Ottoman types, hence they need to be taken care of properly to maintain the polish and ensure that they remain structurally sound:

• Polishing: To maintain the allure of wood or plywood, it is advisable to use good quality furniture polish. The application of the polish should be made with a soft cloth and buffed lightly for a glossy finish. It is better not to use wax-based polishes as they can leave a residue that attracts dust.
• Moisture Control: The wood and plywood are easily ruined by moisture; thus, they may become warped or cracked. Therefore, do not place your Eames lounge chair and ottoman in locations that are too moist and for damp places, it would be helpful to have a dehumidifier. You should also ensure that the chairs do not come into contact with heating items such as radiators or fireplace.
• Protecting from Scratches: Felt pads must be positioned underneath the legs of your Eames chair in order to avoid damage to both the chair and the flooring. In addition, if the base of your seat is made of wood it is advisable that you place objects on coasters or mat so as not to scratch or dent them.

Caring for Eames Plastic Chair

Eames Moulded Plastic Chair is popular for its long-lasting and adaptability. But, plastic chairs may give up on you if they are not well maintained. To keep your plastic Eames chair in top condition:

• Cleaning: Clean the plastic surface with a moist cloth or sponge and mild soap. Steer clear of abrasive cleaners or scrub pads, as they may scratch the plastic. If there are more difficult stains, try combining apple cider vinegar and water in equal amounts.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Don't use chlorine for cleaning your Eames chair made of plastic. Also, avoid ammonia or any other rude compounds. This will lead to fading and weakening of the material. Stick to gentle, non-toxic cleaners to preserve the chair's colour and finish.

Final Thoughts

An Eames chair is more than simply a piece of furniture; it's a work of art that requires careful maintenance and attention. By following the maintenance and care recommendations in this blog, you can ensure that your Eames chair stays a beautiful and functional focus in your home for many years to come.