No matter what the material (i.e. wood, fabric, plastic, metal...) all products require maintenance to ensure a long healthy lifespan. Material and finish will vary considerably depending on conditions and type of use it is subjected to. To help maximize the lifespan of your Shift products, we have some essential rules you should follow:
Always store Shift products in dry, well-ventilated places when not in use.
Take every precaution to protect Shift products from any knocks or bumps that could cause chipping or scratching to the finish. Touch up paint can be applied to any blemishes that occur.
To prevent scratches and water retention, we recommend that you do not place decorative objects on any Shift products without rubber or felt pads to prevent damage due to scraping.
Use glides or rubber pads to prevent degradation or damage to Shift products or flooring resulting from unprotected contact with the ground.
Immediately clean off any traces of bird droppings, as these can be damaging and may lead to the corrosion or staining of your item.
Hardware used for assembly may need to be tightened on an as needed basis based on volume of use. We recommend at least every 4 to 6 months.
Cleaning
Metal furniture can be cleaned using either clean water or water containing a non-detergent soap. The furniture should then be wiped dry. Abrasive sponges should not be used to scrub the furniture, and no abrasive powders or other types of detergent should be used.
Scratches
Any scratches should be quickly treated. You can also visit a local powder coater and have your product refinished. If treated correctly the furniture should last for many years.
Powder Coating
Shift has coated products to be as durable as they can possibly be since our founding in 2009. We use the highest quality powder coatings in a wide variety of colors and textures for the Shift collection. If you desire something with the same strength but a color unique to you, contact us about getting your order done in a custom color. We have powder coating facilities locally in Philadelphia that can make any of our products unique to you and your aesthetic. Send an email our way to get started.
Aluminum + Stainless Steel
Aluminum is 100% recyclable and one of the most sustainable metallic materials available. Aluminum is by nature also highly durable and resistant to extreme environments. Since the underlying materials in most Shift products are recycled aluminum and stainless steel, climates with high levels of humidity and constant moisture from rain or sea spray pose less of a challenge. With these much stronger and more durable base materials comes increased corrosion resistance in nearly any environment - with aluminum also holding the distinction of the most recycled metal in the world. To help us protect the environment, please remember to take your packaging and any old unwanted furniture to your local waste disposal center for recycling.
Wood
Moisture and heat can damage any wood. Always wipe up moisture promptly and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid dragging sharp or rough objects across the surface of your wood furniture. Over time, air and sunlight will change the color of natural wood. Occasionally rotate the items placed on your wood furniture to allow a more uniform color to develop. Our wood options are provided without finishing and color will fade with prolonged UV exposure. To reduce this change, apply oil annually or finish as you like. Since wood is a natural material, some shifting may occur due to climate changes. You can visit a local woodworker and have your product refinished. We offer White Oak expressly for indoor use.
Stone
Dust the surface once or twice a week with a soft cloth. Wash the stone periodically with a cloth dampened with warm water, and, if necessary, a bit of mild dishwashing liquid. Remove the soap with another damp cloth. Never use dusting sprays or abrasive cleaners on your marble. Avoid long exposures to the sun. We use Neromarquina intended for indoor use.
Glass
Wipe the tabletop with a clean, dry cloth. Remove any spilled salt, dust and other non-sticky spills before getting the table wet. Spray water or a glass cleaner on the tabletop. Any scratches should be removable with glass polish.
Leather
Gently brush dirt and dust from the leather using a soft brush. Dip a clean, white rag in warm water. Wring out excess water. Rub the rag on a bar of saddle soap. Work up a light, sudsy leather. Scrub the surface of the leather with a light touch. Work in small sections. Rinse immediately after each section with clean, warm water. Rinse the rag completely between each section, switching to a new rag if it becomes soiled. Dirty water or suds can cause leather to stain. Once the leather is nearly dry, use a clean, white rag to apply a light coat of leather conditioner.
Textile
In upholstered and cushion products, SHIFT uses woven fabric made of synthetic fibers that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Please contact our team for sustainability information and cleaning instructions.
