wicker furniture has a signature woven style that makes it ideal for patios or sunrooms, but cleaning it can be difficult due to dirt and grime getting stuck in the weave. While wicker is traditionally made of wood or plant fibers like bamboo or rattan, modern wicker outdoor furniture is often made of synthetic materials like resin, which are more durable and easier to clean.
How to Clean Synthetic Wicker Furniture and Keep It Looking New
Here’s how to clean synthetic wicker furniture in 6 easy steps:.
For natural wicker furniture, it’s important to remember that exposure to the elements, especially moisture, can cause damage over time. To keep natural wicker looking great for years, it’s recommended to vacuum or dust it regularly to remove dirt and dust trapped in the weave.
When it’s time for a deep clean, use a mild liquid dish detergent with warm water or diluted oil-based soap and a damp microfiber cloth to gently wash dirty areas, and then rinse with clean water.
It’s recommended to wash natural wicker furniture only twice a year at the beginning and end of the warm season if you live in an area with drastic weather changes in fall and winter. If there’s mold and mildew present, you can use a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water to gently scrub the affected area and rinse it with water.
After cleaning, it’s important to let the furniture dry completely before sitting on it or putting any weight on it. Finally, you can condition your natural wicker furniture with a wicker conditioner or even mineral or linseed oil to keep it from becoming brittle.
By taking care of messes swiftly, deep cleaning regularly, and conditioning the wicker, you can keep your natural wicker furniture looking great for years to come.
How to Clean Natural Wicker Furniture
Natural wicker is susceptible to damage when regularly exposed to the elements, particularly moisture, so it is best suited for covered areas such as a porch.
However, with regular maintenance, you can keep your wicker furniture looking great for years.
Dust or vacuum it regularly.
Dirt and dust can easily become trapped in the weave of the wicker, so it’s essential to regularly dust it with a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment.
Wash it gently and sparingly.
It is crucial to avoid repeated wetting and drying as it can damage the natural wicker. Mild liquid dish detergent and warm water or diluted oil-based soap can be used with a damp microfiber cloth to clean dirty areas.
Rinse with clean water or use the bubbles from the Soapy Water to minimize moisture. Clean outdoor wicker furniture only twice a year, once at the start and end of the warm season.
Eliminate mold and mildew.
Mold and mildew are common problems with outdoor furniture. You can use a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water to remove mold and mildew on the wicker, scrubbing it gently with a soft brush and then hosing it off.
Let it dry completely.
Don’t put any weight on wicker furniture until it’s completely dry. Wicker slackens when it’s wet and tightens as it dries, and any weight on it when wet can cause it to lose its shape.
A fan, sunlight, or a good breeze can speed up the drying process.
Condition your wicker furniture after a deep clean to prevent it from becoming brittle. You can moisturize your unpainted indoor wicker or rattan with a wicker conditioner or even mineral or linseed oil.
Rub it in with a white cloth and let it sit for 15 minutes, then buff away any excess. Reapply if necessary to maintain an even layer.
Clean up any messes such as pollen, dirt buildup, or bird droppings immediately to prevent permanent stains and minimize the need for deep cleaning.
*The information is for reference only.