FAQS

 

Bedding and Linen


How do I maximize the fullness of my down pillows?
 
Fluff and move the pillows around to increase air flow, and maximize life of the pillow. Flip, rotate, and alternate pillows to ensure even wear on all sides.

How do I wash down pillows/comforters?

It is recommended to wash down pillows and comforters once or twice per year. When washing, use an oversized machine without a center agitator, and wash with warm water and a mild detergent on the “delicate cycle” setting. Dry using a low heat setting, and do not iron.

How should I properly care for my linens?

Unfold linens completely before washing. Wash them with low heat and a mild soap. It is suggested to air dry linens for best results, otherwise machine dry on low heat. Steam damp linen with iron steam on the inside of the fabric to maximize life and overall appearance of the linen.
 

Bath

 
How should I properly care for my bath towels?
 
Do not wring, bleach, iron, dry clean or heat dry over a radiator. After drying, shake it thoroughly once or twice to regain and fluff the pile. When washing a natural fiber for the first time, some fibers can be lost, so it's advisable for you to clean the fluff-filter and drum of your machine. The initial fluff residue is reduced considerably with use and wash. Machine wash 30°C. Tumble dry, normal.


Ceramics and Pottery


Why are my plates all different sizes?

The ceramics we curate and order are made uniquely, and by hand of the artists. Because of this, the processing of ceramics may yield slightly different sizes and shapes.

Can I wash ceramic dinnerware and serving platters in the dishwasher?

Using a dishwasher on low heat is recommended for ceramic care and the top rack is always best. If needed, hand wash with lukewarm water and a mild detergent if necessary. Hand dry immediately with a soft cloth. Avoid any contact with wool or metal materials for cleaning to avoid scratching. Also avoid using any detergents with citrus or acidic agents.

Can I put my ceramic dinnerware in the oven?

Using the oven for warming at 200 degrees is recommended on certain ceramic dinnerware pieces. Not all ceramics are oven safe.


Italian Pewter & Hand Blown Glass


Can I wash glass in the dishwasher?

It is recommended to wash glass and pewter products by hand, in lukewarm water with mild detergents. Glass should not be soaked in hot water, as it weakens the durability of the glass.

Can I use glass to cook?

Match Italian Pewter and hand blown glass should never be placed in an oven, nor should it ever be exposed to an open flame.

Why are there bubbles in my hand blown glass products?

Hand blown glass is created from a unique experience; each piece crafted individually. Occasional or misplaced bubbles add to the beauty and distinctiveness of the piece.


Antiques & One of a Kind Accessories


How should I care for my accessories used for decor?

All items should be dusted regularly to keep their best appearance. This can be done with a duster, or with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals and cleaning agents to clean accessories.

Why is my antique item rusted, discolored, or misshapen?

Antiques and ancient artifacts are unique and hold their own individuality. The distress seen on some of these items show the beauty and preciousness of their value and should be appreciated for their character markings.
 

Wooden Utensils


How do I clean my wooden utensils and accessories?

It is not recommended to clean wood with soap, as natural oils will strip faster with more frequent washings
and harsher soaps. It is recommended to never leave wood soaking in water, and to never put wood utensils in the dishwasher.

How do I treat my wooden utensils?

Re-apply oil as needed, specifically when wood starts to look dry. Rub your oil in with a clean cloth and let dry overnight. Buff off any oily spots the next day. Any food safe oils are safe to use, i.e. walnut oil, mineral oil, beeswax, avocado oil, butcher block cream, etc. It is recommended to never use olive oil, as it will cause wood to rot over time.


Candles


How do I properly burn my candles?

Be sure to wait for the entire surface of the candle to liquefy before putting it out. This prevents the formation of craters, which are both displeasing and make future burning difficult. It is recommended to blow out the candle an hour after the surface has liquefied, as this will make the candle last longer. Also, be sure to never burn the candle when it has one centimeter of wax left. Lighting a candle without sufficient wax can cause the glass to burst.

How do I care for my candles?

Once the flame has been put out on your candle, let the wax cool, and trim the wicks with a maximum height of 0.6cm. If necessary, reposition the wicks in the center of the candle after each burning. Clean the interior surface of the glass with an alcohol-free cleaner to keep a new, clean appearance. Once the wax in your candle is entirely liquid, blow out the candle an hour later to avoid evaporating the wax too quickly. This will also help to eliminate soot on the inner glass surface of your candle, as the more flames move, the more likely you are to see soot. Soot can be cleaned off of the glass with a rag and an alcohol-free cleaner.


Hides and Textiles


How should I clean potential stains on my hides?

As the cowhide’s natural oils help resist staining, simply wipe up any spills promptly. If a stain should occur use mild soap, warm water and a sponge to rub lightly with the grain of the hair. Vacuum as needed, use the low setting without the beater bar. As with any natural product, please note that blemishes, pattern variances and colors all add to its unique natural character.
 
Why does my hide look worn after some time?

Hair on hides are a natural product and will wear under normal conditions. Vacuum as needed, use the low
setting without the beater bar. As with any natural product, please note that blemishes, pattern variances and colors all add to its unique natural character.
 
Hide Recommendations

We recommend rotating your custom cowhide rug every 3 months in traffic areas and not placing your rug in direct sunlight.
 

Leathers


How do I clean leathers on my furniture?

For smooth/finished leathers, dust periodically with a dry cloth for regular care and cleaning. Harsh cleaners
and solvents are not recommended, as they can abrade the finish/topcoat of the leather. For stains and spills, blot with a lightly damp cloth with warm water on the stain. If water doesn’t work, mix a mild soap with water to make a light cleaning solution, and blot to lift the stain. Blot again with a dry cloth. It is never recommended to scrub stains on leather.

How do I care for nubuck, suede, or unfinished upholstery leather?

Nubuck, suede, and unfinished upholstery leather have no protective film on their surfaces, which makes these materials susceptible to staining and soiling. It is suggested to regularly clean these materials with a vacuum cleaner, followed by brushing the nap up with a soft nylon brush. For spills and stains, blot with a clean and absorbent cloth or sponge. If necessary, mix a mild soap with lukewarm water to make a light cleaning solution, and blot the area until clean. Use a blow dryer to dry the area. Dry stains and light soiling may be removed with a pencil eraser or dry-cleaning pad.
 

Fine Artwork


How do I care for my art and wall hangings?

It is recommended to keep your artworks out of direct sunlight. All art pieces are subject to crack or fade if
subjected to sunlight for long periods of time. Never lean anything against canvas pieces. Although some items may not seem sharp enough to pierce the canvas, this material rips and scratches very easily. When storing, place cardboard pieces between artworks to keep them from damaging each other.
 
For cleaning, it is recommended to regularly dust artworks with a clean, soft rag. Never use cleaning products or water. Hang artworks away from busy or messy areas. They can attract layers of dust and pollutants, such as grime from cooking oils, particles from smoke, and insect specs. Try to hang art in areas where they will be less exposed to these pollutants. Also avoid extreme changes in atmosphere, such as dryness, humidity, heat, and cold.
 

Hand Crafted Metal


How do I care for products with hand crafted metal work?

To preserve the beauty of your pieces, hand wash with gentle detergent and dry immediately with soft cloth. 

Please avoid the following: 

Soaking items in water for extended periods of time
Use household soaps/detergents with lemon or other acidic agents as this will tarnish the finish
Use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring pads that can scratch and damage surfaces


As with all metals, if using for table service, never place in microwave oven. 

 

Library Items


What does it mean when there is a (L) in an item description?

All products at The Collector’s House are hand selected for your unique experience. Our artisans will occasionally library a product to allow for new inspiration in their collections. If a product on our website has the reference, (L) in its description, we are unable to order more than what is currently available in stock. If you are in need of additional products, our customer service team is here to guide you and happy to suggest a similar alternative.