Keep your furniture in tip top shape
Every Medley piece is handcrafted to the highest standards: built to last, hold its shape, and age beautifully. With some additional care, you'll ensure your piece will look and feel its very best for years to come. Can't find what you're looking for below? Email us at hello@medleyhome.com and we'll be happy to help.
Cushion Care
Our cushions exceed industry standards and will hold their shape for years. To avoid uneven wear on a particular cushion or area, simply flip, and, if possible, rotate to a different position on the piece. For down cushions and back pillows, a quick fluff rejuvenates them to their desired shape.
Fabric Care
Vacuuming
Because dirt and dust can cause any fabric to wear faster, we recommend periodic vacuuming with an upholstery attachment (a hose or light brush will do the trick). Using an upholstery attachment on a low setting, vacuum left to right in short, overlapping strokes, starting at the top of your piece and working toward the bottom. This left-to-right method is especially helpful for highly textured materials like chenille or boucle fabrics that hold on to dirt. Switch to a crevice nozzle to vacuum under cushions and around seams.
Fading
Avoid positioning your furniture in direct sunlight, or toss a throw blanket over your piece to lessen the chance of fading from sun exposure.
Snags + Pilling
A good fabric shaver will help tackle pilling. Occasional snagging is also normal: if you find a loose thread here or there, use a felting needle or tool to push it back into the fabric. Threads can be snipped with a sharp pair of scissors as a last resort, but note that this can cause further unraveling.
Watermarks
Water can sometimes leave a ring after cleaning up a spill or stain. In order to avoid this we recommend blotting any spot cleaned area with a fresh towel, then using a liberal amount of water to "blend" in the stain. Often it is best to wet the entire fabric panel with the stain, or wet the entire top of the cushion where the stain occurred from seam to seam. Be careful not to over-soak, and use distilled or filtered water if possible.
Cleaning
Life means inevitable spills and oops, but never fear—your fabric is cleanable! Each fabric has an upholstery cleaning code to identify which kind of products and cleaning steps to use: follow these along with our detailed instructions below to keep your fabric looking fresh.
In general, we recommend promptly treating spots and stains, and avoiding excessive rubbing or brushing. If your fabric can be cleaned using water, upholstery cleaners (like this one) can work magic. If spot cleaning with water, we recommend wetting larger areas in order to avoid the possibility of water stains. Hot tip: if you live in an area that has hard water, use distilled water to prevent mineral buildup and water staining. We recommend upholstery cleaning or professional cleaning about every 12 to 18 months, or more frequently for households with pets.
Machine Washing: Use Sparingly
While some fabrics are machine washable, we do not recommend frequent machine washing. Hand wash or spot treat whenever possible to avoid wear and the possibility of slight shrinkage.
- Cleaning (W) Code Fabrics
A "W" indicates that your piece can be cleaned with water. This means you're safe to use an upholstery cleaner on your spill or stain. - Cleaning (S) Code Fabrics
An "S" indicates that your piece needs to be cleaned with cleaning solvents (dry clean only) and will not react well if water is applied to it. Spot cleaning is only advised if the product is meant for home dry cleaning use. Make sure that after using a product of this nature to use a blow dryer to fully dry the spot. Stains, spills or dirt in general should be cleaned as soon as possible to retain the longevity of the colors and the fabric. - Cleaning (W/S) Code Fabrics
A "W/S" indicates that you can use either dry cleaning solvents or water with mild hand soap for cleaning. Clean spots as soon as possible before they have a chance to set in.
Leather
Leather develops character with time and use. With a little routine care, your furniture will look and feel its very best for years to come. Because dust absorbs moisture and can cause leather to dry and crack, we recommend periodic dusting with a clean cloth and/or vacuuming with an upholstery attachment (a soft brush will do the trick). Scratches and scuffs can usually be rubbed out with a clean, dry, soft cloth. Condition as needed with a natural leather conditioner to keep leather hydrated and soft.
Fabric cleaning instructions
Alpine
Cleaning Code W
Water-based stains
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, oil, pizza, chicken wings, mustard etc.)Blot stain lightly and apply cornstarch as an absorbent to cover the stain. Wait at least 3 minutes and vacuum cornstarch. Proceed to steps 2-7 above.
Coloring stains
(i.e. crayons, ink, markers etc.)Spray stain with isopropyl alcohol and wait at least 3 minutes. Proceed to steps 2-7 above.
For easy cleaning: Machine wash!
When needed, machine wash cushion covers inside-out with like colors on cold with mild detergent. Lay flat to dry. We recommend hand washing or spot treating whenever possible to avoid wear and the possibility of slight shrinkage.
Aster Velvet
Cleaning code: W
Light to Medium Stains
(i.e. coffee, soda, crayon, ketchup etc.)
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Pre-test: Before using any cleaning product, test it on an inconspicuous area.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, olive oil, pizza, mustard, etc)
Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. For thicker substances, use a spoon to remove any excess. Proceed to steps 2-8 above.
Slight bruises or crush marks
Hold a garment steamer approximately 12 inches away from the velvet pile and gently apply steam to the affected area. Be cautious not to bring the steamer too close or linger in one spot for too long to prevent excessive moisture. Follow with a fabric brush to gently brush the velvet in the direction of the pile. This helps lift and fluff the fibers, aiding in the restoration of the velvet's original texture. Exercise patience during this process and avoid excessive pressure to prevent damage to the fibers.
Buckbrush Tweed
Cleaning code W
Light to medium stains
(i.e. coffee, soda, crayon, ketchup etc.)
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Pre-test: Before using any cleaning product, test it on an inconspicuous area.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, olive oil, pizza, mustard, etc.)Blot and absorb the area with a clean, soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. For thicker substances, use a spoon to remove any excess. Proceed to steps 2-8 above.
Elder
Cleaning code W
Light to medium stains
(i.e. coffee, soda, crayon, ketchup etc.)
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Pre-test: Before using any cleaning product, test it on an inconspicuous area.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, olive oil, pizza, mustard, etc.)Blot and absorb the area with a clean, soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. For thicker substances, use a spoon to remove any excess. Proceed to steps 2-8 above.
Huckleberry Chenille
Cleaning code W
Light to medium stains
(i.e. coffee, soda, crayon, ketchup etc.)
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Pre-test: Before using any cleaning product, test it on an inconspicuous area.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, olive oil, pizza, mustard, etc.)Blot and absorb the area with a clean, soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. For thicker substances, use a spoon to remove any excess. Proceed to steps 2-8 above.
Juneberry
Cleaning Code W
Light-medium stains / everyday messes: spot clean with soap + water
- Blot liquids on the surface with a clean, soft towel and brush away loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of a ¼ tsp. of mild detergent (like clear dishwashing liquid) per 1 cup of lukewarm water.
- Apply the solution using a misting spray bottle.
- Work the solution into the affected area by lighting scrubbing the area with a sponge or soft bristle brush. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading the stain. Rinse your sponge and brush frequently. Allow the solution to soak into the fabric for a few minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as soap residue will attract dirt. Blot excess moisture away with a clean, soft towel.
- An upholstery cleaner can be used to suck out excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
For easy cleaning: machine wash!
Machine wash cushion covers inside-out with like colors on cold with mild detergent. Lay flat to dry. This option should be used infrequently to best maintain color consistency (try spot cleaning first).
Larkspur
Cleaning Code W
Water-based stains
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, oil, pizza, chicken wings, mustard etc.)Blot stain lightly and apply cornstarch as an absorbent to cover the stain. Wait at least 3 minutes and vacuum cornstarch. Proceed to steps 2-7 above.
Coloring stains
(i.e. crayons, ink, markers etc.)Spray stain with isopropyl alcohol and wait at least 3 minutes. Proceed to steps 2-7 above.
For easy cleaning: Machine wash!
When needed, machine wash cushion covers inside-out with like colors on cold with mild detergent. Lay flat to dry. We recommend hand washing or spot treating whenever possible to avoid wear and the possibility of slight shrinkage.
Mahonia
Cleaning code W
Light to medium stains
(i.e. coffee, soda, crayon, ketchup etc.)
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Pre-test: Before using any cleaning product, test it on an inconspicuous area.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, olive oil, pizza, mustard, etc.)Blot and absorb the area with a clean, soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. For thicker substances, use a spoon to remove any excess. Proceed to steps 2-8 above.
Meadow
Cleaning Code W
Water-based stains
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, oil, pizza, chicken wings, mustard etc.)Blot stain lightly and apply cornstarch as an absorbent to cover the stain. Wait at least 3 minutes and vacuum cornstarch. Proceed to steps 2-7 above.
Coloring stains
(i.e. crayons, ink, markers etc.)Spray stain with isopropyl alcohol and wait at least 3 minutes. Proceed to steps 2-7 above.
For easy cleaning: Machine wash!
When needed, machine wash cushion covers inside-out with like colors on cold with mild detergent. Lay flat to dry. We recommend hand washing or spot treating whenever possible to avoid wear and the possibility of slight shrinkage.
Ponderosa
Cleaning code W / S
Light-medium stains / everyday messes: spot clean with soap + water
- Blot liquids on the surface with a clean, soft towel and brush away loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of a ¼ tsp. of mild detergent (like clear dishwashing liquid) per 1 cup of lukewarm water.
- Apply the solution using a misting spray bottle.
- Work the solution into the affected area by lighting scrubbing the area with a sponge or soft bristle brush. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading the stain. Rinse your sponge and brush frequently.
- Allow the cleaning solution to soak into the fabric for a few minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as soap residue will attract dirt. Blot excess moisture away with a clean, soft towel.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Tougher stains: spot clean with bleach + water
- Blot liquids on the surface with a clean, soft towel and brush away loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare a solution of 1 ounce bleach to 30 ounces water in a clean spray bottle. If possible, place a clean towel between the fabric and foam cushion to absorb any excess moisture. Set the nozzle to a “fan” spray pattern and wet the entire side of the cover where the stain is.
- Wipe the entire cover with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
- Spray the same area with clean water to rinse the bleach solution out of the fabric. Again wipe the entire cover with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Poplar Bouclé
Cleaning code W / S
Light-medium stains / everyday messes: spot clean with soap + water
- Blot liquids on the surface with a clean, soft towel and brush away loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of a ¼ tsp. of mild detergent (like clear dishwashing liquid) per 1 cup of lukewarm water.
- Apply the solution using a misting spray bottle.
- Work the solution into the affected area by lighting scrubbing the area with a sponge or soft bristle brush. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading the stain. Rinse your sponge and brush frequently.
- Allow the cleaning solution to soak into the fabric for a few minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as soap residue will attract dirt. Blot excess moisture away with a clean, soft towel.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Tougher stains: spot clean with bleach + water
- Blot liquids on the surface with a clean, soft towel and brush away loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare a solution of 1 ounce bleach to 30 ounces water in a clean spray bottle. If possible, place a clean towel between the fabric and foam cushion to absorb any excess moisture. Set the nozzle to a “fan” spray pattern and wet the entire side of the cover where the stain is.
- Wipe the entire cover with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
- Spray the same area with clean water to rinse the bleach solution out of the fabric. Again wipe the entire cover with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Riverbed Linen
Cleaning Code W / S
Spot cleaning (fully washable up to 100°F)
- Blot stain with a clean, soft towel and brush away loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of a ¼ tsp. of mild detergent (like clear dishwashing liquid) per 1 cup of lukewarm water.
- Use the solution and another clean, soft cloth or paper towel to forcefully blot the stain.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Tougher stains:
Professionally dry clean.
Stonecrop Linen
Cleaning Code W / S
Spot cleaning (fully washable up to 100°F)
- Blot stain with a clean, soft towel and brush away loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of a ¼ tsp. of mild detergent (like clear dishwashing liquid) per 1 cup of lukewarm water.
- Use the solution and another clean, soft cloth or paper towel to forcefully blot the stain.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Tougher stains:
Professionally dry clean.
Willow Chenille
Cleaning code W
Light to medium stains
(i.e. coffee, soda, crayon, ketchup etc.)
- Blot and absorb the area with a clean soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Be sure not to rub.
- Pre-test: Before using any cleaning product, test it on an inconspicuous area.
- Add 1⁄4 tsp of clear, mild dishwashing liquid per 1 cup of lukewarm water and mix gently. Put mixture in an empty spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and wait at least two minutes before cleaning.
- Working from the outside of the stain inward, lightly scrub the stained area, rinsing your cloth often as you clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot dry with a fresh, dry cloth.
- An upholstery cleaner (see above for our recommendation) can be used to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps as needed until fabric is clean and stain is removed.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
Oil-based stains
(i.e. butter, olive oil, pizza, mustard, etc.)Blot and absorb the area with a clean, soft cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. For thicker substances, use a spoon to remove any excess. Proceed to steps 2-8 above.
Leather Care
Leather develops character with time and use. With a little routine care, your furniture will look and feel its very best for years to come.
Dusting
Because dust absorbs moisture and can cause leather to dry and crack, we recommend periodic dusting with a clean cloth and/or vacuuming with an upholstery attachment (a soft brush will do the trick). Use a soft, clean, white cloth dampened with water (distilled or purified water if possible) when needed.
Conditioning
Condition your piece every 6 to 12 months or as needed to keep leather hydrated and soft. Your climate will affect how often you'll need to condition, and your couch may need more care if you live in a dry location. Be sure to check which type of leather you have to select an accompanying conditioner and test any new products on a hidden area first.
Scratches and scuffs
Leather will naturally show marks from use over time—use a clean, dry, soft cloth to help buff out lighter marks. A leather conditioner can also help reduce their appearance.
Fading
Avoid direct sunlight and high heat to prevent discoloration and drying out.
Cleaning
Refer to our leather care guide below for detailed instructions. Many spills and stains, even if absorbed into the leather, may dissipate over time: an added bonus of the beautiful way leather ages!
Leather cleaning instructions:
Bodie, Palomar, Milo, and Tomo Leathers
Everyday spills
- Blot the stain immediately with a dry white cloth to absorb all moisture. Avoid rubbing the leather and spreading any liquid.
- If necessary, use clear, distilled lukewarm water with the cloth and gently wipe the spill dry using a blow dryer. At the same time, brush the affected area with a soft nylon brush.
- If that doesn’t do the trick, mix three parts distilled water with one part mild, clear soap and repeat earlier steps as needed.
Greasy stains
For butter, oil, and grease stains, wipe off using a dry, white, absorbent cloth. If the spot does not dissipate in several days, try sprinkling the area with cornstarch, then cover it with a damp towel. Allow this to set for about one hour. Remove the damp cloth, dry with a blow dryer, vacuum up the cornstarch, and brush the nap back up using a soft nylon brush.
Ink or marker stains
These can often be lightened or removed using a pen eraser or a dry cleaning pad.
Nubucks, suedes, or other unfinished upholstery leathers
For small stains, spot clean with a dry, white, absorbent cloth or sponge. If necessary, use clear, distilled lukewarm water with the cloth and gently wipe the spill dry using a blow dryer. At the same time, brush the affected area with a soft nylon brush.
Wood Care
Scratches and scuffs
Our natural woods age beautifully with use and time. Surfaces of tables and case goods like credenzas and dressers can be lightly sanded as necessary to remove scratches or scuffs. Be sure to refinish afterward with an appropriate wood oil or wax, and test on a non-visible part first to see if the color change is desirable.
Some of our products feature natural wood veneers in certain areas, including the back of some storage pieces and the back and sides of our Buden Bed. We do not recommend sanding these areas.
Cleaning
Spills happen, of course, but try to clean them up as soon as possible: the longer moisture sits on wood, the more likely it'll leave a stain. To dust or wipe down your piece, simply use a lightly damp rag with water. If possible, wipe the whole surface to let the finish wear evenly.
Protection + Preventing Stains
We're big fans of coasters and placemats, especially when you're setting down anything warm or damp, as natural wood is very sensitive to heat and moisture. To help prevent stains, apply a wood oil or wax as needed, but test first on a non-visible area.
Humidity + Temperature Change
It’s normal for frames made with solid wood to expand or contract slightly due to extreme heat and cold or fluctuations in humidity. Changes like these may cause some temporary creaking or squeaking —this isn’t anything to worry about, and generally any noises like this will go away as the wood settles in a new position.