Cleaning & Care Instructions.

 

Properly maintaining and sanitising your early learning equipment keeps equipment hygienic and extends its life. Follow this general care guide to keep your indoor and outdoor spaces beautiful and safe.

Caring For Your Children’s Furniture

Indoor Equipment

• Melamine/Laminate
• Perspex & Mirrors
• Solid Hardwood & Timber
• Wood Veneer

Outdoor Equipment

• Wooden Blocks

Indoor Equipment

General indoor furniture care guide:

• Do not allow water or liquids to pool on surfaces, as it can cause damage.
• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent deep stains.
• Keep cleaners and liquids away from edges and joints. Moisture can seep under the surface, weaken the adhesive, and cause permanent warping.

Melamine/Laminate Tops

Our non-porous laminate tops are exceptionally strong, hygienic, and built for busy preschool environments.

• Daily cleaning: Wipe surfaces in a circular motion using a dampened sponge or washcloth. Dry the surface thoroughly to remove all remaining moisture.
• Deep cleaning: Use a commercially available melamine cleaner, or mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray the surface, wipe with a cloth, rinse with a clean damp cloth, and dry completely with a separate towel.
• Avoid abrasive products like scouring pads or powder; they scratch the surface and make future stains more likely.

Perspex & Mirrors

Care for our extensive children’s mirror range, and the Perspex in our easels, home corner kitchens, and storage cabinets.

• Clean with cold water to which a little detergent has been added; use a soft, microfiber non-linting cloth or sponge.
• Allow the surface to air-dry. Do not rub dry as this may scratch the surface.

Solid Hardwood & Timber

Natural timber brings warmth and durability to the classroom. Every piece has its own grain and tone – routine care keeps it looking its best

• Dusting: Dust regularly with a dry microfiber cloth, always moving in the direction of the wood grain to protect the natural pattern.
• Routine Cleaning: Wipe down with a soft, lint-free cloth that is damp to the touch (almost entirely dry). You may want to use commercially available cleaning products specifically designed for solid wood furniture.
• Conditioning: Periodically apply a few drops of orange oil to your cleaning cloth to restore the wood’s natural lustre.
• What to avoid: Select products that clean or disinfect without adding wax. Avoid wax-based cleaners entirely; they build up over time and create a sticky layer that requires harsh stripping to remove.

Wood Veneer

Wood veneer combines a real hardwood exterior layer with a lightweight core.

• Dusting: Dust furniture with a soft cloth; preferably one that is microfiber/ lint free.
• Deep cleaning: Use a soft cloth sparingly dipped in soapy washing-up liquid; use minimal water.
• Drying: Take care not to soak the surface or leave cleaning solution to pool. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture must withstand regular sun, rain, wind, and muddy playground play. Regular maintenance drastically extends its lifespan.

• Oiling: Oil Merbau and Tasmanian Oak furniture every 6 to 12 months (or as needed) to protect the wood from cracking and fading.
• Product Choices: Apply a high-quality commercial decking oil, or mix your own solution using 1 part linseed oil to 3 parts turpentine. Apply a light coat with a brush or cloth.

Outdoor Wooden Blocks

Our wooden blocks are designed for heavy-duty stacking, building, and tumbling, but they still require protection from the elements.

• Storage: Ensure blocks are completely dry before putting them away. Store them inside a dry, well-ventilated space to prevent mould and mildew.
• Cleaning Solution: Use a non-toxic cleaner. Mix warm water with eco-friendly dish soap (1 part soap to 4 parts water) or create a natural disinfectant using white vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) in a spray bottle.
• Washing: Spray the blocks and wipe them clean. Never soak, submerge, or place wooden blocks in a dishwasher. Excess water causes the wood to swell, warp, crack, and ruin the finish.
• Drying: Allow blocks to air-dry completely. Dry them indoors or outdoors in a shaded area. Keep them out of intense, direct sunlight, which causes the wood to split and colours to fade.