Care & Maintenance of Wicker Furniture

One of the many benefits of wicker furniture is that it requires very little maintenance. It doesn’t rust or oxidize, and you don’t have to paint or stain it. To keep your wicker furniture looking like new, all you have to do is keep it clean and protect it from extreme weather.

Wicker is a catch-all term for any woven furniture, and it can be made from a variety of materials. We’ve broken down the maintenance and care instructions based on whether the wicker furniture is made of natural materials, as most indoor wicker furniture is, or a synthetic resin, commonly used for outdoor wicker furniture.

Care & Maintenance for Indoor Wicker Furniture

Wicker furniture is lightweight, yet strong, and it can last for many years. However, it’s important to keep in mind that natural wicker will deteriorate quicker when exposed to sunlight and weather, which is why it is recommended for indoor use only. The most common materials used for indoor wicker furniture are rattan, willow and bamboo. Here’s how to keep it clean and preserve it for years to come.

• Dust & Vacuum – Remove any cushions and use a soft brush or vacuum brush attachment to remove loose dust and dirt. You can also use compressed air to blow out any dust or dirt that has accumulated in the weave.
• Wipe Clean – Mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or too much soap and water, as they can damage the wicker. Dip a soft cloth in the cleaning solution, wring it out well, and gently wipe down the wicker. For stubborn dirt in the crevices, use a toothbrush.
• Rinse & Dry – To remove any soapy residue, wipe the wicker furniture with a clean, damp cloth. Ensure the furniture is totally dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Use a dry, soft cloth to blot any excess water. If possible, use a fan to dry the wicker or put the furniture outside in the shade to air dry. 
• Maintain – To prevent dryness, periodically wipe down the wicker with a cloth dampened with a mixture of water and a few drops of lemon oil, or apply a light coat of furniture polish to keep the wicker supple.

Care & Maintenance for Outdoor Wicker Furniture

Many types of wicker furniture are designed for outdoor use, especially those made from synthetic materials that are weather resistant. Premium outdoor wicker furniture is typically made of a synthetic resin, called high-density polyethylene. Here’s how to keep it clean and looking like new.

• Remove Loose Debris – Remove any cushions and use a leaf blower or a soft brush to remove any loose dirt, leaves or debris.
• Spray Down the Furniture – Use a garden hose or a bucket of warm water to wet the furniture completely. (Don’t worry, it’s waterproof.)
• Lightly Scrub Away Dirt – Mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water (no abrasive cleaners) and use a soft brush to lightly scrub away any dirt, making sure to get into the cracks and crevices of the weave.
• Rinse & Dry – Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose or bucket of warm water, and allow the furniture to air dry in the shade to prevent water spots and mildew.
• Maintain – Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading, so consider covering your wicker furniture or storing it indoors when not in use. Likewise, avoid exposing resin wicker furniture to extreme cold, which can make it brittle and prone to cracking. 
• Store – If possible, store your furniture in a covered area or indoors to protect it from the elements. Before storing, ensure the furniture is completely dry to prevent mildew and mold growth. 

Additional Care Tips for Outdoor Wicker Furniture in Hampton Roads, VA

• Mildew Removal – Create a paste of warm water and baking soda, or use a mildew remover like Tilex, apply it to the affected areas, and scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly as soon as you are done to avoid bleaching or fading.
• Sap Removal – Scrape off any dried sap with a dull blade and use a clean cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol, or a cleaner like Goo Gone, to rub off the remaining residue. Rinse thoroughly as soon as you are done to avoid bleaching or fading.

Note: Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it will not damage the wicker.

For additional questions about caring for and maintaining your wicker furniture, contact Williamsburg Wicker Patio & Home. We carry the largest selection of quality indoor wicker & rattan furniture and premium outdoor wicker furniture in Hampton Roads, and we are happy to answer any questions you might have. Send us a message, call (757) 565-3620, or stop by our store located at 7422 Richmond Road in Williamsburg, VA.