ᐅ What is the best way to care for IKEA Hemnes furniture when you have pets at home?

Created on: 26 Jul 2023 09:17
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Rama68
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Rama68
26 Jul 2023 09:17
Hello everyone,

Some time ago, I purchased several IKEA Hemnes pieces, especially cabinets and dressers made of pine wood, and I live with two cats and a dog. Now I am wondering how to best care for these furniture items to minimize the impact from pets, such as scratches, fur, and possible stains, without damaging the surface of the Hemnes series. I am particularly interested in:

- Which cleaning and maintenance products are suitable to avoid drying out or discoloring the wood?
- Are there special techniques to protect against scratches caused by animals?
- How should I handle fur and dirt without using harsh chemicals?

I want to keep my furniture in good condition for as long as possible, without it being quickly damaged by everyday pet use. Does anyone have practical experience or tips tailored to the specific characteristics of the Hemnes series? Thanks in advance!
K
kaubi
26 Jul 2023 14:42
Hello Rama68,

Regarding your question on how to best care for IKEA Hemnes furniture – especially pine wood – when you have pets at home, I can provide a very detailed overview.

1. Cleaning:
- The best way to remove pet hair and dust is daily or at least several times a week using a soft microfiber cloth or a duster.
- Avoid using wet wipes or harsh cleaning agents, as these can dry out the wood or damage the finish.
- For light stains, you can use mild soap solutions: dissolve a drop of dish soap in lukewarm water, slightly dampen the cloth, and wipe gently without applying strong pressure.

2. Protection against scratches:
- The Hemnes series is coated with a protective lacquer layer, which makes it sensitive to deep scratches. Since pets are often active with their claws, consider using claw covers for your animals or applying protective films (transparent, specifically designed for wood) to the furniture.
- Alternatively, placing cushions or blankets on the furniture surfaces can act as a buffer against pet claws.

3. Maintenance and aftercare:
- I recommend treating the wood quarterly with special furniture oil or wax designed for pine wood, which nourishes the surface and adds moisture. However, you should test the product first on an inconspicuous spot to ensure it maintains the original color.
- Always allow the furniture to dry thoroughly after treatment before allowing pets back onto it.

One more note: Please provide more information about how you use your furniture (e.g., dressers, tables, shelves) and your pets’ specific behavior. This way, I can offer even more tailored advice.
K
kautra
26 Jul 2023 19:31
Hello Rama68,

my brief tips:

- Remove hair daily with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.
- Clean furniture with a slightly damp cloth and a mild soap.
- Avoid scratches by using claw covers or covering the furniture with blankets.
- Do not use aggressive cleaners, as they can damage the wood.

This way, your Hemnes furniture will stay beautiful longer.
S
sinhau
27 Jul 2023 08:03
Hello everyone,

I would like to share some additional tips for caring for IKEA Hemnes furniture, especially when you have pets, as I own this furniture myself and have cats.

First, I recommend the following structured approach:

1. Regular cleaning:
- As mentioned before, microfiber cloths are ideal. I suggest initially dusting dry to avoid fine scratches.
- For more stubborn dirt, use a mild cleaner, preferably homemade: a few drops of neutral dishwashing liquid in warm water. The cloth should only be slightly damp to prevent the wood surface from swelling.

2. Preventing scratch marks:
- Furniture edges are common scratching spots for cats. Protecting these areas with textiles, such as a patchwork blanket that can be easily attached to furniture parts, helps.
- Alternatively, clear protective films can be applied to the surface and are hardly visible.

3. Wood protection:
- Hemnes furniture often has a thin lacquer layer that can be damaged by too frequent or aggressive cleaning.
- Therefore, it is advisable to apply suitable furniture wax or oil once every quarter. Important: use products specifically designed for lacquered pine wood.

4. Household tips to reduce pet hair:
- Vacuuming helps remove loose hair quickly and reduces buildup on furniture.
- For cats, a grooming glove can be used to minimize shedding.

Finally, one more tip: make sure the cleaning agent leaves no residue, as with pets frequently touching the furniture, no harmful substances should remain on the surface.

If anyone knows of special care products for Hemnes furniture that have proven particularly effective, that would be a valuable addition.