A Lifetime of Beauty

Caring for Your Pieces

Every piece in the Al Maleh House collection has been made or sourced by hand. Proper care ensures these objects age with grace — developing character and patina that only deepens their beauty over time.

Surface Care

Bone Inlay Furniture

Bone inlay is one of the most intricate crafts in the world. Each fragment was placed by hand. Treat it accordingly.

  • Dust with a soft dry cloth. Never use abrasive materials.
  • Clean spills immediately with a slightly damp cloth, then dry at once.
  • Avoid direct sunlight — prolonged exposure can yellow the bone.
  • Never use chemical cleaners, bleach, or alcohol-based products.
  • Use coasters and placemats to protect surfaces from heat and moisture.
  • Keep away from humid environments and air conditioning vents.

Surface Care

Mother of Pearl

Mother of pearl has an iridescent quality that no machine can replicate. It is fragile and precious — handle it with that in mind.

  • Wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid paper towels which can scratch.
  • Never submerge in water or expose to prolonged moisture.
  • Avoid acidic or chemical cleaners — they will dull the surface permanently.
  • Handle with clean, dry hands. Skin oils can cause discolouration over time.
  • Polish occasionally with a cloth lightly dampened with olive oil for natural shine.

Wood Care

Carved Wood & Cedar Tables

Our wood pieces are crafted from cedar, walnut, and exotic hardwoods. The grain tells a story — preserve it.

  • Dust regularly with a soft dry cloth, following the grain.
  • Apply natural beeswax or wood oil every 6 months to nourish the wood.
  • Keep away from direct heat sources, radiators, and air conditioning.
  • Avoid standing water on the surface — wipe spills immediately.
  • For deep scratches, contact us — most can be restored by our artisans.

Metal Care

Brass & Lighting

Unlacquered brass develops a living patina over time. This is not damage — it is the metal aging naturally, as it was meant to.

  • Dust regularly with a dry cloth.
  • For natural patina: leave it. Brass ages beautifully without intervention.
  • To restore shine: clean with a mixture of lemon juice and salt, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
  • Avoid touching with bare hands — skin oils accelerate tarnishing.
  • Never use steel wool or abrasive pads.
  • For lacquered brass pieces: clean only with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Object Care

Antiques & Decorative Objects

Antiques carry history. Their age is their value. Avoid anything that strips that character away.

  • Dust gently with a soft brush or cloth. Do not scrub.
  • Avoid chemical cleaners entirely — they can damage aged finishes and patinas.
  • Keep antiques away from direct sunlight and extreme humidity changes.
  • Do not attempt to polish or restore antique metals yourself — consult a specialist.
  • If a piece needs restoration, contact us — we work with restorers who understand these objects.

Textile Care

Carpets & Rugs

Our carpets are sourced from Morocco, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Iran. Hand-knotted rugs are built to last generations — with the right care.

  • Vacuum regularly on low suction, without a beater bar.
  • Rotate every 6 months to ensure even wear and prevent fading.
  • Address spills immediately — blot, never rub. Work from the outside in.
  • Avoid direct sunlight which fades natural dyes over time.
  • Professional cleaning recommended every 12–18 months.
  • For snags or pulls, use scissors to clip — never pull the thread.

Still Have Questions?

If your piece needs special attention or restoration, reach out to us directly. We know these objects better than anyone.

Get in Touch on WhatsApp