wicker furniture enhances the outdoor ambiance with its delightful cottage style, be it on a patio, sunroom, or porch.
However, the intricate weaving of wicker furniture makes cleaning a difficult and time-consuming task.
But don’t let your natural Outdoor Furniture succumb to the elements. By investing time and effort into cleaning, you can extend the lifespan of your wicker pieces.
Continue reading to discover our recommendations and techniques for cleaning wicker, along with simple methods to revive and rejuvenate weathered wicker furniture.
Clean Wicker Furniture
Maintaining and cleaning wicker furniture is essential to keep it looking fresh, regardless of whether it’s made of bamboo, rattan, or another material.
To extend the lifespan of your wicker furniture, it’s recommended to purchase covers for outdoor pieces to protect them from the elements and prevent fading. In addition to that, incorporating the following strategies into your cleaning routine will help with wicker furniture care.
For wicker made of bamboo, rattan, or willow, start by brushing off or vacuuming the surface dirt.
Then, use a soft brush and a mixture of Soapy Water with 1 or 2 teaspoons of ammonia to wash the wicker. Rinse thoroughly and allow the piece to dry outdoors in the sun.
For hard-to-reach dirt and particles in crevices, you can use a can of compressed air or a toothbrush. Regular vacuuming and dusting will also help maintain the cleanliness of your wicker furniture.
To remove grime from wicker furniture that requires more than just dusting, a mild oil-based soap like Murphy Oil Soap diluted with warm water can be used.
Follow the ventilation recommendations and other precautions mentioned on the soap bottle. Alternatively, you can create a homemade cleaner by mixing 1/4 cup of ammonia, 2 tablespoons of White Vinegar, and 1 quart of warm water.
If you have outdoor wicker furniture, you can try using patio furniture cleaners, but make sure to carefully follow the instructions and dilute them if required.
Wicker Furniture Care
Caring for wicker furniture made of twisted paper or grasses is simpler—just wipe them down with a damp cloth.
Synthetic wicker, being more durable and less prone to rot and splintering, can be easily cleaned with soap and water or even hosed down.
In terms of routine care, mildew is a common issue with wicker furniture.
To prevent stains and odors, regularly scrub away any mildew using a mild oil-based soap mixed with water. Ensure the wicker is thoroughly dried before covering it to prevent mildew growth.
Placing the furniture in the sun or using a fan can expedite the drying process. Additionally, you can restore the warm glow of unpainted or natural wicker by rubbing it with linseed oil, wiping off the excess, and allowing the chairs to dry for several days before use or by adding cushions to protect your clothing from the oil.
Preserve Wicker Furniture
It’s also important to periodically inspect your wicker furniture for any snags or broken pieces.
If you find extensive damage or anticipate potential major issues, consider consulting a furniture repair or restoration professional. For minor repairs, you can find caning and reeds online.
If you have the manufacturer’s information, contacting their customer service team can provide guidance on repairs or sourcing materials.
When cleaning antique wicker furniture, be cautious as intense cleaning can harm older pieces.
Avoid painting antique wicker furniture, as doing so can significantly diminish its value. Embrace the worn spots as reminders of previous generations who enjoyed the wicker just as you do.
If available, refer to the owner’s manual or instructions from the store where you purchased the wicker furniture for specific guidelines.
*The information is for reference only.