glass furniture care guide with zuki coffee tableglass furniture care guide with zuki coffee table

Glass Furniture Care Guide

Glass furniture brings a light, modern touch to any space. With sleek lines and a reflective finish, it’s a timeless choice that adds elegance without overpowering your décor. Whether you choose a dining table catching the light at dinner or a side table brightening up a corner, glass pieces instantly elevate your space.

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But while they’re effortlessly stylish, they do need a little TLC to stay looking flawless. Regular care is key to keeping that pristine, polished finish - so your furniture always looks as good as the day you brought it home.

In this glass furniture care guide, we’ll detail how to keep your furniture shining, as well as answering some of our customers’ common care questions.

How to clean glass furniture

Keeping glass furniture looking sharp doesn’t have to be a chore - but it does need to be part of your weekly to-do list! Here’s your step-by-step guide to a gleaming finish, every time:

Glass naturally shows fingerprints, dust and smudges, so a quick daily wipe can go a long way. Use a soft, damp microfibre cloth and gently sweep across the surface to catch everyday marks. Try to avoid rough sponges or anything abrasive, as these can leave scratches behind. Instead, a warm, damp cloth works wonders for lifting smudges.

When it’s time for a proper clean, opt for a dedicated glass cleaner. Spray it sparingly onto the surface, then use a clean, lint-free cloth to buff it in circular motions. The trick is to avoid overloading the glass - less really is more here. Want that extra sparkle? Finish with a dry microfibre cloth for a smear-free shine.

If your glass surface starts looking cloudy or foggy, a gentle homemade solution can help. Dissolve a tablespoon of baking soda in a bowl of warm water and dip your cloth into the mixture. Wipe down the entire surface, then dry with a clean cloth. This method is ideal for removing build-up and restoring clarity without using harsh chemicals.

It’s easy to focus on the flat surface - but don’t forget the corners and joints, especially where glass meets metal or wood. Use a cotton bud or small brush to get into those tight spaces where dust can gather. It’s a small detail, but one that keeps your furniture looking polished from every angle!

Glass is naturally heat resistant, so placing warm mugs or plates without protection won’t cause immediate damage. That said, we still recommend using coasters or placemats - especially for very hot dishes. It’s a simple habit that helps protect both the glass and any connecting materials, like wooden legs or metal frames, from heat stress or water rings.

Tempered glass is strong, but not invincible. Even the smallest chip can weaken the structure and make the surface more prone to breaking under pressure or heat. If you spot a chip or crack, try to avoid using the piece until it can be repaired or replaced. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Glass furniture care FAQs

Yes, absolutely. All glass furniture sold in the UK - like our pieces here at DFS - is made with toughened safety glass. That means it’s specially treated to be far stronger than ordinary glass, designed to withstand everyday knocks and heat.

If it ever does break, it’s designed to shatter into tiny, blunt pieces rather than dangerous shards. So, while it’s important to treat glass with care, you can feel confident that it’s built to be safe and sturdy - perfect for family homes and busy kitchens alike.

Glass furniture has a unique ability to open up a space. Its transparent design doesn’t block light, instead reflecting light to open up your space, making it perfect for smaller dining rooms or darker corners that need a little lift.

Glass also brings a modern, timeless style to any room, blending effortlessly with a range of décors, from minimalist to maximalist. And while it might need regular cleaning, it’s low-maintenance in every other way: quick to wipe down, resistant to staining, and durable when handled with care!

It’s true - glass furniture does tend to show smudges and fingerprints more easily than some other materials. But that’s not necessarily a downside. In fact, because glass is non-porous, any spills or marks sit on the surface, making them super easy to clean off. One quick wipe and you’re done!

You should also keep in mind that it’s best to avoid storing heavy or sharp objects on glass, even though it is toughened for safety. Plus, glass’ transparent nature demands attention to detail - there’s no hiding clutter or dirt under a glass table, after all!

It’s best to steer clear of traditional furniture polishes on glass. Many polishes are designed for wood and can leave streaks or a cloudy finish on glass surfaces. Stick to a good-quality glass cleaner - or a little diluted white vinegar - and a lint-free cloth for a sparkling, smear-free shine.

Tempered glass is pretty resilient, but it can still scratch - especially if something sharp gets dragged across it. To avoid this, don’t place rough or abrasive items directly on the surface, and try to lift rather than slide objects like ceramic plates or metal decor. Felt pads underneath accessories can help protect the finish and keep your table scratch-free.

Explore glass furniture at DFS

If you love the clean lines and airy feel of glass furniture, you’ll find plenty to choose from at DFS.

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From contemporary glass dining tables that bring elegance to mealtimes, to sleek coffee tables and side tables that add a modern edge to your living space, our collection has something to suit every style.

Glass works beautifully in minimalist, modern, or industrial interiors, but it also pairs surprisingly well with softer textures like boucle, velvet, or wood, adding contrast and balance. Whether you're after a striking centrepiece or a subtle side table, our collection of glass furniture is sure to elevate your space.

Looking for more home care tips? Head over to the DFS Care Hub for everything you need to know about keeping your pieces in perfect condition.

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