Free shipping on orders over $150 — Shop new arrivals
FORMA
materialscareguide

Materials & Care: Keeping Pieces Timeless

Jan 15, 2026 4 min read
Materials & Care: Keeping Pieces Timeless

The best home objects are the ones that age well. Natural materials—wood, ceramic, linen, stone—develop character over time when properly cared for.

Solid wood furniture benefits from occasional conditioning with a natural oil. Avoid harsh chemicals; a soft, barely-damp cloth is usually all you need. Teak outdoor pieces will silver gracefully if left natural, or maintain their golden tone with annual oiling.

The most powerful design move in a neutral room is what you leave out.

Ceramics and stoneware are more forgiving than they seem. Most pieces can handle gentle daily use. For handmade pottery, avoid extreme temperature changes and always check if pieces are food-safe before serving.

Linen gets softer and more beautiful with every wash. Machine wash cold with a gentle detergent, and either hang to dry or tumble on low. The natural wrinkle is part of the material—embrace it.

More Guides