Storage & Maintenance Guide
\nEssential advice on how to store, clean, and maintain your event furniture to significantly extend its working life and preserve its appearance.
\nStacking Limits & Safety
\nAdhering to these maximum stacking limits is crucial to prevent frame distortion in lower chairs, maintain structural integrity, and significantly reduce the risk of the stack toppling. These limits apply under normal dry indoor storage conditions — where space allows, always stack lower for enhanced safety and equipment longevity.
\n\n| Product | \nMax Stack Height | \nImportant Notes | \n
|---|---|---|
| Folding chairs | 50 | Stack folded flat, never in an open position. |
| Chiavari chairs | 10 | Always remove seat pads before stacking to prevent damage and compression. |
| Wishbone chairs | 6 | Solid beech construction means heavier stacks; consider using chair trolleys. |
| Tolix style steel chairs | 8 | Stack upright, ensuring all chairs face the same orientation. |
| Eames / Conference chairs | Do not stack | Store upright in rows or on purpose-built racks; stacking can scratch shells and distort legs. |
| Banqueting tables (folding leg) | 10 | Ensure legs are fully folded before stacking flat. For larger quantities, use table trolleys. |
| Full steel tables | Do not stack | These are fixed-height, non-folding. Store upright against a wall or on dedicated table trolleys. |
Cleaning by Material Type
\nProper cleaning prevents wear, discolouration, and extends the aesthetic appeal of your event equipment. Always follow these guidelines based on the material:
\nPlastic Shells
(e.g., Eames style, folding chairs, Tolix)
\n Wipe with a damp cloth and mild, non-abrasive detergent immediately after use. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can dull the surface sheen and create micro-scratches that trap dirt. For stubborn marks, a diluted white vinegar solution can be effective without damaging the plastic.
\nWooden Chairs
(e.g., Chiavari, Wishbone)
\n Always wipe dry after any outdoor use. Do not stack wet wooden surfaces in contact with each other, as this can cause permanent staining, mildew, or even bond frames together. For routine cleaning, a dry cloth or barely damp cloth is sufficient; avoid soaking the wood. Ensure chairs are fully dry before storage.
\nSteel and Metal Surfaces
\nThoroughly dry all metal components after outdoor use. Painted steel is susceptible to surface rust at chips and scratches if left wet. Wipe down immediately after rain and store under cover whenever possible. Proactively touch up paint chips to prevent rust from spreading beneath the paint layer.
\nSeat Pads
(Upholstered)
\n Clean upholstered seat pads by spot-cleaning only. Do not machine wash or saturate with water, as the foam core can retain moisture, leading to mildew and degradation. For heavier soiling, use a suitable upholstery cleaner and allow the pad to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area before returning it to a chair or stacking.
\nOutdoor Equipment Storage
\nProper storage for outdoor equipment is essential to prevent premature wear and ensure readiness for your next event.
\nGazebo Frames and Canopies
\nAlways dry the gazebo frame thoroughly before folding and storing; trapped moisture in the joints will corrode aluminium connectors over time. Crucially, never store a wet canopy folded in its bag. Mildew can develop rapidly in enclosed damp fabric. Lay the canopy flat or hang it to dry completely before bagging and storing.
\nPatio Heaters
\nFor safety, remove the gas cylinder before storing. Store patio heaters indoors or under protective cover during the off-season, especially over winter. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles significantly accelerate the degradation of the burner and regulator. Inspect and replace the gas hose and regulator annually before the outdoor season begins.
\nBeer Bench Sets
\nWhile their galvanised frames and plastic panels offer good resistance to outdoor exposure, leaving beer bench sets uncovered over winter will accelerate surface wear on plastic panels and any painted fixings. Utilising a tarpaulin or dedicated winter cover can noticeably extend the life of their finish and overall appearance.
\nReplacement Parts & Support
\nExpo Direct can assist with sourcing replacement components such as rubber feet, plastic glides, chair leg caps, and Chiavari seat pads. Part availability is subject to current stock levels. Please contact us with the specific product SKU and the part you require before ordering, and we will promptly confirm availability and cost.
\n \nQuestions About Your Expo Direct Order?
\nOur team is here to help with parts queries, detailed storage advice, or any other questions regarding products you have purchased.
\n Contact Our Support Team\n