Expert: Mark H. Miller - 2/26/2009

Question
Hello Again, Mark:

Thank you so much for your prompt reply about my chair. Now, I really don't know what to do. Since it would cost so much to recover, do you recommend that I put in on Ebay and take my chances like he suggests? What if some schmuck gets it and ruins it? Should I just leave it as it is?

Your answer was wonderful and made me smile at getting such a nice find, but now I'm even more confused. It's sort of like: "what's the best thing for the chair?" ...Yes, I'm that kind of person!

Anyway, I very much appreciate your taking the time to answer my question. It's nice to know there are people like you out there who take the time to educate folks like us.

Sincerely,
Kathy Streets

Answer
Hi,  

To me the solution to your dilemma is simple,  the chair is wonderful the way it is.  I believe it is the original fabric and that seems to be in good shape.  If it is naugahyde, that is virtually indestructible.   And even there I take your word for it that it is naugahyde, I would not be shocked if you are wrong and it is really leather.  Give the chair a good cleaning using a very mild detergent or go to the automotive section of a dept. store and buy something to clean vinyl upholstery.  Keep it out of direct sun light.

Use a furniture wax product on the wood legs.

Then leave the chair alone and enjoy it.  Your financial investment is minimal so some day, someone is going to come along who will flip out over that "vintage chair" and you'll just know it's the right person to give it to if you no longer want to be it's guardian.

Those who took care of "old stuff" in the past, like you do now, are the ones who made it possible for us to own antiques.

Glad I made your day, happy hunting for the next treasure.

Mark Miller