ᐅ How do I care for IKEA HEMNES furniture in a home with pets?

Created on: 14 Dec 2015 08:37
Z
zoelgi
Hello everyone,
I recently purchased some furniture from the IKEA Hemnes series, including a sideboard and nightstands. Since I have pets (a fairly active dog and two cats), I’m concerned about proper care and protection of the furniture in everyday use. My question is: What is the best way to maintain IKEA Hemnes furniture in a household with pets so that the surface isn’t damaged, scratches are minimized, and the furniture stays looking good for a long time?
Are there any specific cleaning products or care tips you would recommend when dealing regularly with cat claws and dog hair? I’m looking forward to your experiences and helpful advice!
R
rotofra
14 Dec 2015 12:01
A brief guide to caring for IKEA Hemnes furniture with pets:

1. Removing pet hair: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery or brush attachment daily or every other day.

2. Cleaning: Use a slightly damp, soft cloth with a minimal amount of neutral cleaning agent. Do not use abrasive cleaners to preserve the finish.

3. Protection against scratches:
- Cats: Place a scratching post nearby and keep nails trimmed if necessary (consult a veterinarian).
- On heavily used edges, transparent protective films or felt pads can be applied.

4. Regularly use furniture polish or furniture wax to maintain the surface.

Tip: Avoid vinegar or harsh household cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
Z
zoelgi
15 Dec 2015 07:44
rotofra schrieb:
A short guide on caring for IKEA HEMNES furniture with pets:

Thank you very much for the detailed and well-organized guide. It is very helpful, especially the advice to avoid using harsh cleaners.

I am also curious about how you specifically deal with small scratches caused by cat claws. Can these be effectively concealed with furniture polish, or do you need special wood repair kits?

And how do you handle stains, for example, from dog saliva or dirt? Thanks for your tips!
D
dota57
15 Dec 2015 08:22
zoelgi schrieb:
I’m curious how you specifically deal with small scratches caused by cat claws.

Small scratches can often be minimized using clear furniture polish or furniture oil. For deeper scratches, I use a wood repair pen in the matching color, applied carefully. This works well on lacquered surfaces if used sparingly.
zoelgi schrieb:
And how do you handle stains, for example from dog saliva or dirt?

Fresh stains are best wiped off immediately with a damp cloth and left to air dry. Dried stains can be gently treated with a special wood cleaner, but never rubbed or scrubbed strongly to avoid damaging the lacquer finish.
M
Merlin
15 Dec 2015 09:06
Touch up scratches with furniture wax or a wood repair stick. Remove stains immediately; otherwise, treat with a mild cleaning agent. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
J
Jackson
15 Dec 2015 09:43
I can confirm that small scratches on HEMNES can be removed or at least become much less noticeable with furniture polish. Make sure to apply it gently – furniture is not a litter box 😉

My trick for dog dirt: simply use a damp microfiber cloth and then let it dry briefly. I have also set up minimalist-style scratching furniture as cat traps – they work better than I expected.

The combination of regular cleaning and the right accessories for the pets helps protect the furniture from more severe damage.
T
tralo45
15 Dec 2015 10:22
dota57 schrieb:
For deeper scratches, I use a wood repair marker in the matching color, applying it carefully.

I would recommend the same. These markers are indeed a simple and effective solution if you want to avoid major repairs. It is important to match the color well to the furniture surface.
Jackson schrieb:
My trick for pet dirt: just a damp microfiber cloth, then let it dry briefly.

That’s exactly how I do it as well.

I would like to add that regular wiping prevents dirt from drying and leaving unpleasant stains. Setting strict pet rules, like declaring certain furniture off-limits, may not always be feasible, but it greatly reduces wear on the furniture.