FAQ
Urbio Product Information
- Q: Can Urbio attach to any metal surface?
A:Urbio vessels are made with strong, powerful neodymium magnets. Our metal wall plates are made from ferrous steel with high iron content, making them the ideal magnetic surface for Urbio vessels. Our Urbio vessels also attach to other ferrous metals. However, there are varying degrees of magnetic attraction across different types of metal.
Depending on the iron content of the metal surface you wish to attach your Urbio vessel to, you will experience varying degrees of magnetic strength. If the magnetic attraction between the Urbio vessel magnets and the metal surface is weak, the Urbio vessels may not perform at their maximum capacity.
The maximum weight capacity listed each of our vessels is for use on a ferrous metal surface, like our metal wall plate. If you choose to use your Urbio vessel elsewhere, we cannot guarantee that it will perform to capacity. - Q: Can Urbio vessels attach to my fridge?
A:Urbio vessels are made with strong, powerful neodymium magnets. Our metal wall plates are made from ferrous steel with high iron content, making them the ideal magnetic surface for Urbio vessels. Our Urbio vessels also attach to other ferrous metals. However, there are varying degrees of magnetic attraction across different types of metal.
Depending on the iron content of the metal surface you wish to attach your Urbio vessel to, you will experience varying degrees of magnetic strength. If the magnetic attraction between the Urbio vessel magnets and the metal surface is weak, the Urbio vessels may not perform at their maximum capacity.
Some refrigerators are more magnetic than others and not all refrigerators are magnetic. Many stainless steel refrigerators are made with chromium and nickel, and the higher the nickel content, the weaker the magnetic strength will be.
The maximum weight capacity listed each of our vessels is for use on a ferrous metal surface, like our metal wall plate. If you choose to use your Urbio vessel elsewhere, we cannot guarantee that it will perform to capacity. - Q: How much weight can the Urbio vessels hold?
A:The weight capacity for each vessel can be found on our website Home page Just click on the product you are interested in, and to the right of the picture you will find specific information about weight capacity and dimensions.
Big Daddy - holds up to 6.5 pounds
String Bean - holds up to 3.5 pounds
Wide Mouth - holds up to 2.5 pounds
Shorty - holds up to 1.5 pounds - Q: What color is Urbio?
A:It is difficult to accurately describe the color of Urbio without referring to the Pantone color (Pantone Plastics Opaque Selector Q716-2-5). Urbio is not a bright white, it is 10% grey. The powder-coated wall plates are color-matched to the vessels.
- Q: Are the Urbio Wall Plates magnetic, or just the containers?
A:Just the containers are magnetic - they have magnets on the back of the containers and stick to any ferrous metal surface (including our metal wall mounts).
- Q: What are the dimensions of the Urbio vessels?
A:Big Daddy - 9.5" wide 3.5" deep 9.5" tall
Wide Mouth - 9.5" wide 3.5" deep 5.0” tall
String Bean - 3.5’’ wide 3.5’’ deep 9.5’’ tall
Shorty - 3.5" wide 3.5" deep 5.0" tall
- Q: What are the dimensions of the Urbio Wall Plate?
A:The Urbio wall plates are 10.0’’ wide 0.5’’ deep 10.0’’ tall.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the Urbio Happy Family?
A:The Happy Family Kit comes with two of the wall plates that are each 10.0’’ wide 0.5’’ deep 10.0’’ tall. The plates are modular and you can stack the plates vertically or horizontally, or anyway you want. If you stack them vertically, it would be 20'' tall and 10'' wide. If you stack them horizontally, it would be 20'' wide and 10'' tall.
- Q: Can Urbio be painted?
A:You are welcome to spray paint the Urbio wall plate. However, we do not recommend that you paint the Urbio magnetic vessels. If you choose to paint your Urbio products, please understand that we do not guarantee any results.
- Q: What is Urbio made from?
A:Urbio vessels are made from partially recycled BPA-free polypropylene, equipped with extremely strong neodymium magnets. Urbio wall plates are made from powder-coated steel.
- Q: Is Urbio recyclable?
A:Yes, Urbio vessels and steel wall plates are both recyclable. Just make sure to remove the rubber cap & magnets on the back of the vessel before recycling.
Urbio Installation
- Q: How are the wall plates installed?
A:The wall plates come with a plastic mounting bracket and screws. You screw each corner of the mounting bracket into the wall and the metal plate snaps on over it. The plate has little hooks at the top and a tab at the bottom so it snaps snug over the bracket.
- Q: Can Urbio mount to concrete or brick?
A:Yes, you can mount Urbio wall plates to concrete or brick walls. The process is slightly different than mounting Urbio wall plates to drywall or wood. We recommend that you first mount a piece of Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) and then mount the Urbio wall plates to the MDF.
First, design your Urbio layout. Once you have decided how you want to arrange your plates, trace this layout onto a piece of paper. If you don't want your MDF to show behind your Urbio, cut your MDF to be about two inches smaller around the perimeter than your traced paper. You can also cut out the pieces between plates.
Hang your traced paper where you want to install Urbio and mark four holes in the corners. Using a hammer drill with a masonry bit, drill holes in the marks. Install your concrete anchors. Screw your MDF into the anchors.
Proceed with your Urbio wall plate installation as directed here.
- Q: Can Urbio be installed outside?
A:Yes, you can install Urbio outside, but keep in mind that Urbio was designed specifically for indoor use and therefore we cannot guarantee wear and tear if used outdoors. However, we have had several customers who have installed Urbio outdoors on fences and patio walls.
Please take into consideration the weather conditions in your area. If your Urbio wall plates are exposed to rain, they may rust. If your Urbio vessels are continuously exposed to direct sunlight, they may experience some discoloration over time. If you choose to install Urbio in an area where it will be exposed to rainfall, be sure to drill holes in the bottom of the vessels for drainage. - Q: Can I use Command strips to mount the Urbio Wall Plate?
A:Command Strips can only be used to mount the Perch Wally, however, we are working on redesigning the Urbio Wall Plate and will be releasing a new and improved version that can be used with Command Strips in the next year.
Perch Product Information
- Q: What is Perch made from?
A:Perch containers are made from ABS plastic and strong vinyl magnets. The Perch Wally is made from powder-coated steel with a plastic mounting bracket.
- Q: How much weight can the Perch containers hold?
A:Biggy - holds up to 10 pounds
Stumpy - holds up to 5 pounds
Twiggy - holds up to 3 pounds
Bitsy - holds up to 1.5 pounds
- Q: What are the dimensions of the Perch containers?
A:Biggy - 9.48" wide 3.31" deep 9.42" tall
Stumpy - 9.39" wide 3.39" deep 4.41” tall
Twiggy - 3.77’’ wide 3.11’’ deep 9.42’’ tall
Bitsy - 3.68" wide 3.11" deep 4.41" tall - Q: What are the dimensions of the Perch Wally?
A:The dimensions of the Perch Wally are 10.00’’ wide 0.31’’ deep 10.00’’ tall.
Perch Installation
- Q: How are the Perch wall mounts installed?
A:Check out our installation video and instructions here.
Perch vs Urbio
- Q: What is the difference between Urbio and Perch?
A:The main differences between Urbio and Perch are the materials, design, and installation. Perch containers are made from ABS plastic and vinyl magnets vs. Urbio vessels that are made from polypropylene and neodymium magnets. Urbio vessels feature an "offering" or slight curve towards the user. Perch accomplishes the same gesture in a different way by leaning towards you when placed on a tabletop. Urbio also has the ability to let the vessels straddle two wall plates, which Perch can't do. With Perch you can install the wall mount with Command Strips or screws + anchors, but with Urbio you can only install with screws + wall anchors. Both Perch and Urbio are white, but the Urbio white is slightly grey.
- Q: Are Urbio and Perch different colors?
A:Both Perch and Urbio are white, but the Urbio white is slightly grey.
- Q: Are the Urbio and Perch systems interchangeable?
A:You can use your Urbio vessels with the Perch Wally, but you cannot use your Perch containers with the Urbio wall plate. For best results and maximum hold, we recommend that you use your Urbio vessels with the Urbio wall plate, and your Perch containers with the Perch wall mount.
- Q: Can I use my Urbio Vessels with the Perch Wally?
A:While you can use your Urbio vessels with the Perch Wally, you can't use your Perch containers with the Urbio wall plate. Contact [email protected] if you have any more questions and we'll be happy to help!
- Q: Can I use my Urbio inserts with the Perch containers?
A:The Urbio Shorty Organizer and Urbio Wide Mouth Organizer that are sold at The Container Store were designed specifically to fit into the Urbio Shorty and Urbio Wide Mouth Vessels, and they will not fit into the Perch Containers.
We are designing Perch Organizers that will fit into the Perch Bitsy and Perch Stumpy Containers. We will be releasing these later this year at The Container Store, so stay tuned on social media for the announcement!
Command Strips
- Q: How long will Command Strips last?
A:1. We recommend that you use the included Command Strips to install Perch within 18 months of purchase. Once Command Strips are bonded to the surface, the adhesive is permanent and they are attached until you want to remove them. Just follow the package instructions and use them on a recommended surface.
2. We recommend that you use the included Command Strips to install Perch within 18 months of purchase. Once adhered to the wall, Command Strips are permanent until they are stretch removed. - Q: Where can I buy replacement Command Strips?
A:You can purchase additional Command Large Strips at several retail locations, including Target, Office Depot, Home Depot, Amazon, etc.
Planting
- Q: Where can I buy pumice?
A:You can find pumice at your local nursery, or home & garden supply store. You can also buy pumice online from several vendors, including Peaceful Valley Farm & Garden Supply, Green Planet Naturals, and Nature’s Footprint. If you are unable to find pumice in your area, don’t worry, there are several good alternatives.
- Q: How much light do I need for growing plants?
A:It really depends on the type of plants you select. We recommend that you choose plants that are suited to the lighting in your home. If you don’t get very much natural light, choose "low light" plants, use a grow light, or take them outside to a sunny spot during the day.
- Q: Are plants, soil, or pumice included?
A:Our kits do not come with plants, soil, or pumice. One of the great features of Urbio is that it is fully customizable, allowing you to choose plants that will thrive in your living environment and fit your lifestyle.
- Q: What types of plants will grow best in Urbio vessels?
A:Urbio was designed to keep your walls and home clean without the mess that accompanies traditional planters with drainage systems. With this in mind, it is best to choose plants that do not require a lot of water. We personally love succulents and cacti. Here is a great guide for caring for succulents and cacti.
- Q: What about drainage?
A:Urbio was designed without drainage holes to keep your walls clean and mess-free. Urbio vessels are magnetic, allowing you to easily detach them from the wall to water, aerate, prune, and replant. To help with aeration, we recommend that you place a layer of granular pumice or Perlite in the bottom of the vessel before adding soil and your plant. The pumice or Perlite helps aerate and prevent root rot.
We also recommend that you choose plants like succulents or cacti that do not require a lot of water. Most importantly, remember to never over water and your plants will flourish! - Q: Can you put fresh cut flowers in your containers?
A:Yes, you definitely can! The containers are completely sealed so you don't have to worry about any water leakage or dripping. We love to use the Urbio String Bean and Perch Twiggy as vases for fresh flowers.
Billing & Checkout
- Q: Where do I enter my promocode?
A:If you have a promocode, you will have a chance to enter it on the last page, after you enter your billing and shipping information. You will have a chance to review your total order amount, discount codes, and any shipping charges before final checkout.
Shipping
- Q: Do you ship internationally?
A:We're sorry, we are currently not offering international shipping.
- Q: How do I track my package?
A:Orders shipped within the United States:
After you place your order, you will receive an email confirming your order details. You will receive another email with your tracking information once your package has shipped. Most packages are fulfilled and shipped within 24-48 hours. If Free Standard Shipping is selected at checkout, the least expensive shipping method will automatically be selected by our fulfillment center, either FedEx Ground or the United States Postal Service (USPS).
Most packages shipped via FedEx Ground take between 3-7 business days to arrive. Packages sent via USPS can take up to 10 days to arrive. If your package has shipped and your tracking number is not providing your package's location, it could be caused by damaged barcodes or the carrier failure to scan the barcode. Please allow a couple days for the barcode to register.
- Q: What shipping options are available?
A:Orders shipped within the United States:
We have several shipping options available for shipping within the United States. We offer Free Standard Ground Shipping on all orders within the continental U.S.A. over $50. If you select the Free Standard Shipping option at checkout, your package will be sent via Standard Ground Shipping on the least expensive carrier, either FedEx or USPS. Read details below.
Standard Ground Shipping: We offer standard ground shipping via FedEx Ground and the United States Postal Service (USPS). The least expensive of the two carriers will be presented at checkout. The majority of our packages are shipped via FedEx Ground, with the exception of lightweight packages (less than 13 oz.), which are usually shipped via USPS. Packages shipped via FedEx Ground usually take between 2-7 business days to arrive. Packages shipped via USPS can take up to 10 days to arrive.
2-day Shipping*: We offer 2-day Shipping via FedEx.
*Please note that shipping times are calculated from the time that your package is actually shipped, not from the time that your order is placed. Most packages are shipped within 24-48 hours after an order is placed, excluding weekends. The day that the package is shipped is not counted in the 2-day shipping calculation. The count begins on the first day after the package is shipped.
Returns & Exchanges
- Q: What is your return policy?
A:At Urbio, we take great pride in the quality of our products. Each of our products is carefully inspected before leaving our warehouse. We encourage you to do the same upon receipt of your purchase. In the event that damage occurs in transit, or if you discover any defect in manufacture, please contact us immediately, and we will happily replace your product at no cost.
We accept returns within 30 days of purchase. Products must be in the condition you received them and in their original unopened packaging. If you would like to return or exchange an item, please email [email protected] with your order number and reason for the return or exchange.
Once your return is received and inspected by our warehouse (usually within 72 hours of receipt), your refund will be processed and a credit for the item purchase price (minus the cost of return shipping & handling) will be automatically applied to your credit card or original method of payment within 7 days. Any taxes charged will be refunded in accordance with state laws. Return shipping & handling charges will be deducted from your total refund. Please note that depending on your credit card company, it may take an additional 2-10 business days after your credit is applied for it to post to your account.
Contact Us
- Q: Press Inquiries
A:Please submit your press inquiries to [email protected].
- Q: Wholesale Inquiries
A:Please submit your wholesale inquiries to [email protected].
- Q: Customer Service
A:For any customer service-related needs, email [email protected]. Our regular business hours are Monday-Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm PST.
Retail & Trade Opportunities
- Q: How can I become an Urbio retailer?
A:We are currently accepting retail applications from brick & mortar retailers in the United States who would like to carry Urbio products in their store. Applicants must have a current business license and brick & mortar storefront. We do not authorize online retail sales of our products. We do not offer dropshipping. If you would like to apply to become an authorized Urbio retailer, please fill out our online application.Here
If you are located outside of the United States, we are in the process of establishing our international distribution channels and if you would like more information about becoming a future Urbio retailer, please fill out the International Retailer Application online. Here - Q: Do you offer dropshipping?
A:No, we do not offer dropshipping and are no longer authorizing online retail sales of our products except for online retailers who have already previously established retail accounts. We are currently accepting retail applications from brick & mortar retailers in the United States who would like to carry Urbio products in their store. Applicants must have a current business license and brick & mortar storefront. If you would like to apply to become an authorized Urbio retailer, click here.
- Q: Do you have trade discounts?
A:Yes, we do offer a discount to qualified architects, interior designers, real estate developers, product designers, and design professionals. You will need to provide the following:
- Links to your website and/or LinkedIn, Facebook and any other websites that state your firm’s most current profession and/or design
- Examples of your past and/or current design/architectural work (links to online portfolios, scanned photos or printouts of articles/blogs/sites that showcase your firm’s work.
- A copy of your current business or state professional license in a residential or commercial design-based business, or the hospitality industry
- A copy of your Resale or Sales Tax Certificate
- Proof of current AIA or IDI provincial registration, current ASID membership, OR interior design certification (e.g. NCID, CCIDC)
- Q: Do you work with international retailers and distributors?
A:We currently have distributors in Taiwan and Japan. We're holding off on any additional international expansion until 2016, but make sure to follow us on social media for updates. Or you can check back in 2016 by sending an email to [email protected].
Internship Opportunities
- Q: Do you have internships?
A:We have a select number of internship opportunities for industrial design, engineering, graphic design, multimedia, film, business, communications, & marketing students in our Oakland-based design studio and office. If you are interested in applying, submit your cover letter and resume via email at [email protected].
Retail Locations
- Q: Which retailers carry Urbio products?
A:We sell our products several brick and mortar retailers throughout the United States, Canada and across the world. Please visit our "Store Locator" page for a full list.
- Q: Where can I buy Perch?
A:Please go to our "Store Locator" to find your nearest Perch retail location.
Still need help? Contact us!