A good chair should get better with use, not worse. A few small habits will keep yours looking its best for years — here's everything you need to know, material by material.
Timber
Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth and wipe up spills promptly so moisture doesn't sit on the surface. Keep timber out of prolonged direct sunlight and away from heating and cooling vents, which can dry it out and cause movement. For oiled timber, a light re-oil once or twice a year restores depth and protection. Avoid harsh or silicone-based sprays — they build up over time.
Leather
Wipe with a dry or barely-damp cloth to remove dust, and condition once or twice a year with a quality leather conditioner to keep it supple. Blot spills immediately rather than rubbing. Keep leather out of direct sun to prevent fading, and expect a natural patina to develop — that softening and deepening is the leather doing exactly what good leather should.
Bouclé & linen
Vacuum gently with an upholstery attachment to lift dust from the weave, and rotate loose cushions so they wear evenly. Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth — never rub, as it can pull or pill the loops of a bouclé. Keep textured fabrics out of prolonged direct sun, and treat any stubborn marks with a fabric-appropriate cleaner (test a hidden area first).
Velvet
Brush the pile in one direction with a soft upholstery brush to keep it looking even and lustrous. Blot spills straight away, and reset any crushed or flattened pile with gentle steam held a little above the fabric. Rotate cushions and avoid dragging the chair to prevent uneven wear.
Woven cord & rattan
Dust with a soft brush or vacuum on low suction to keep the weave clean. Wipe gently with a barely-damp cloth if needed and let it dry fully. Keep woven materials out of damp, unventilated spaces, and avoid soaking them — natural fibres prefer to stay dry.
Everyday habits
Lift chairs rather than dragging them, tighten any fixings occasionally, and keep them out of harsh direct sun where you can. That's genuinely most of it — good chairs don't ask for much.