Caring for Your Piece
Each Maison Zellij piece is handcrafted to last generations. A little care goes a long way.
Mother of pearl is one of nature's most durable materials — it has survived on the ocean floor for thousands of years. With simple care, your piece will stay luminous for a lifetime.
Do
- Wipe gently with a soft microfiber cloth for everyday dust
- For deeper cleaning, dampen the cloth slightly with lukewarm water and one drop of mild soap — never harsh detergent
- Dry immediately and thoroughly after any cleaning
- Apply a light coat of furniture oil (like Old English oil) once or twice a year to nourish the wood base
Don't
- Never soak or submerge in water
- Avoid ammonia, bleach, or abrasive cleaners
- Never scrub — the inlay tiles are set by hand and respond to a gentle touch only
- Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight to preserve the iridescent quality
Bone inlay is remarkably resilient when treated with respect. The geometric patterns are set into solid wood — treat the wood well and the inlay will follow.
Do
- Dust regularly with a dry soft cloth
- For spills, blot immediately — never rub
- Use coasters under drinks and felt pads under objects
- Keep in stable temperature and humidity — bone inlay can respond to extreme changes
Don't
- Avoid placing in direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators
- Never use chemical sprays or wax-based polishes
- Do not allow water to sit on the surface
Brass develops a natural patina over time — this is not a flaw, it is the piece maturing. Many of our clients love the way brass ages. If you prefer to maintain the original shine, here is how.
To maintain the shine
- Wipe with a soft dry cloth after handling — natural oils from hands affect the finish over time
- For a deeper clean, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply gently with a soft cloth, rinse and dry immediately
- A specialist brass polish applied occasionally will restore the original warmth
To embrace the patina
- Simply leave it — the brass will develop a rich, antique finish naturally over months and years
- Each piece ages differently, making it even more one of a kind
Don't
- Never use steel wool or abrasive pads
- Avoid bleach or ammonia-based products
Zellige tiles are fired terracotta glazed by hand — they are tough by nature and forgiving to maintain.
Do
- Wipe with a damp cloth for everyday cleaning
- For stubborn marks, use a mild pH-neutral cleaner
- Seal periodically with a tile sealant to protect the glaze and reduce porosity
Don't
- Avoid acidic cleaners — lemon, vinegar, or wine can etch the glaze over time
- Do not use abrasive scrubbers on the surface
Still have questions?
Our team in Marrakech knows these materials intimately. If you are ever unsure about how to care for your piece, reach out — we are always happy to help.
Contact Us