How to Care for Your Ikea Furniture
London, Ontario, known for its charming blend of urban life and nature, also has a climate that poses unique challenges for furniture care. Ikea furniture, known for its modern design and affordability, is a popular choice among homeowners in the area. However, to keep your Ikea pieces looking fresh and functioning well, it’s essential to understand how seasonal fluctuations in temperature and humidity can impact them.
Whether you’re dealing with freezing winters, humid summers, or dry indoor air due to heating, this guide will help you protect your investment. At Furnitureassemblyguy, we not only help you put your furniture together, but we also want to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Here’s how to care for your Ikea furniture London Ontario in every season.
Understanding London, Ontario’s Climate
Before diving into care tips, it’s important to understand what makes London’s climate unique:
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Cold winters with snow, freezing temperatures, and dry indoor heating
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Humid summers that can cause swelling and warping in materials
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Rapid seasonal changes, especially in spring and fall, which can affect wood and other materials
These fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause expansion, contraction, fading, and other issues with furniture that isn’t properly maintained.
1. Keep Indoor Humidity Balanced
Wood-based Ikea furniture, especially items made from particleboard or MDF, is sensitive to moisture levels. In the winter, indoor heating dries out the air, which can cause wooden components to shrink and crack. In summer, humidity may cause them to swell or warp.
Tips:
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Use a humidifier in winter to maintain indoor humidity between 40–50%.
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In summer, use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to control moisture levels.
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Avoid placing furniture near vents, radiators, or humid areas like bathrooms.
2. Clean with the Right Products
Harsh chemicals can damage Ikea furniture finishes, especially the laminated or coated surfaces. Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate quickly, especially in a busy household, so regular cleaning is a must.
Tips:
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Use a soft microfiber cloth for regular dusting.
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Clean with mild dish soap and warm water, then dry with a clean cloth.
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Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or oil-based cleaners.
3. Protect Against Seasonal Sunlight
In spring and summer, longer daylight hours and more sun exposure can lead to fading or discoloration of certain furniture finishes.
Tips:
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Place Ikea furniture away from direct sunlight, especially near large windows.
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Use curtains or UV-filtering window film to reduce exposure.
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Rotate or move smaller items like chairs or side tables periodically to avoid uneven fading.
4. Prevent Water Damage
London winters mean snow and slush, which can easily get tracked indoors. Water and Furnitureassemblyguy furniture don’t mix—especially items made of particleboard, which can swell and weaken when wet.
Tips:
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Place mats at entrances to avoid bringing in snow or moisture.
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Use coasters and placemats on tables and shelves to prevent water rings and spills.
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Wipe up any spills immediately with a dry cloth.
5. Protect Flooring and Furniture Legs
Changes in indoor temperature and humidity can cause floors and furniture legs to expand and contract. This might lead to wobbly furniture or scratches on hardwood floors.
Tips:
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Add felt pads or rubber protectors to the legs of your Ikea furniture.
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Periodically tighten screws and joints, especially after seasonal shifts.
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Avoid dragging furniture—lift it when moving.
6. Re-tighten and Inspect Seasonally
Ikea furniture is often assembled with cam locks, screws, and bolts. These fasteners can loosen over time due to vibrations, frequent use, and especially temperature changes.
Tips:
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Every 3–6 months, go through and tighten all screws and fittings.
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If something feels unstable, don’t wait—check it right away.
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For frequently used items like chairs, desks, or bookshelves, inspect more often.
7. Use Protective Covers and Pads
If you have pets, kids, or a busy household, your furniture is more susceptible to scratches, spills, and dents. Ikea couches, dining tables, and shelving units can benefit from an extra layer of protection.
Tips:
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Use slipcovers for sofas or fabric furniture to reduce wear and tear.
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Add tablecloths or clear vinyl pads to protect surfaces from spills.
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Keep sharp objects away from furniture with soft or painted finishes.
8. Store Seasonal Furniture Properly
If you use Ikea items on your patio, balcony, or sunroom during the summer months, make sure you store them correctly when winter arrives.
Tips:
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Never leave Ikea furniture exposed to snow or rain.
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Store seasonal items in a dry, climate-controlled environment.
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If storing in a garage or basement, use furniture covers or plastic bins to avoid dust and dampness.
9. Use Anchor Brackets for Stability
In a region like London, Ontario, where kids might be stuck indoors during long winters, it’s essential to childproof your home. Ikea offers wall anchoring kits with many of its products—use them!
Tips:
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Always anchor tall furniture like bookcases and dressers to the wall.
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Periodically check the brackets for signs of loosening or wear.
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Consider upgrading to heavy-duty anchors for added safety in multi-purpose rooms or play areas.
10. Refresh and Maintain Furniture Over Time
Even with the best care, your Ikea furniture may start to show signs of age. But that doesn’t mean you need to replace it. A bit of maintenance can breathe new life into your furniture.
Tips:
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Replace worn handles, knobs, or legs with stylish hardware upgrades.
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Touch up scratches with color-matching pens or Ikea repair kits.
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Repaint or apply a new sealant to unfinished wood products for added protection.
Trust the Experts at Furnitureassemblyguy
Whether you’ve just moved to London, Ontario, or are redecorating your space, Ikea furniture is a smart choice for style and functionality. But assembling and maintaining it properly can make all the difference in how long it lasts.
At Furnitureassemblyguy, we not only specialize in putting your furniture together quickly and safely—we also provide expert advice on caring for it long-term. Our professional team understands the specific challenges posed by London’s climate and can help make sure your home stays beautiful, comfortable, and organized throughout the year.
If you’re looking for reliable help with Ikea furniture London Ontario, we’re the trusted local solution you need.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your Ikea furniture in London, Ontario doesn’t require expensive products or hours of work—it just takes a little attention and consistency. By adjusting to the local climate and using these simple tips, you can extend the life of your furniture and keep it looking great for years.
So, the next time you notice a wobbly shelf, a water stain, or a sun-faded panel, you’ll know exactly what to do. And remember, Furnitureassemblyguy is here to support you every step of the way.