How to Clean & Care for Your Rattan Furniture? Ultimate Guide!

how to clean and care for wicker cane furniture
Spring and summer are around the corner, and your dull home is about to be outshone by the gorgeous sunshine. It's go time! Get your hands on some classic modern rattan furniture - the boho-chic style that will make your neighbors wonder if you've just returned from a Bali retreat. But hold up! Even the prettiest piece of rattan can turn into an eyesore if you don't take good care of it. In this blog post, we'll delve into the nitty-gritty of how to keep your wicker furniture in top condition, allowing it to age gracefully and bring a unique, breezy feel to your living space. So, let's dive in and discover the secrets of cleaning and maintaining your modern rattan furniture like a pro!

How to Clean Wicker Furniture So That It Ages Gracefully

Maintaining rattan furniture requires careful consideration and attention. To avoid altering the color of the material, it's crucial to refrain from using harsh chemicals. Instead, opt for a gentle cleaning routine that involves weekly dusting and monthly damp cleaning. Be sure to conduct a yearly inspection to identify any split fibers or mold and address them promptly. When cleaning your wicker furniture daily, use gentle solutions and techniques to preserve its appearance and prolong its lifespan. Remember, harsh chemicals is a big no-no in cleaning rattan furniture.

Things You'll Need When Cleaning Rattan Furniture

* Dish soap
* Water
* A soft-bristled toothbrush or scrub brush
* A microfiber cloth
* Fan or hair dryer (optional)

5 Steps for Cleaning Wicker Furniture

  • Step 1: Create a Soapy Solution
Begin by mixing two to three cups of water with a few drops of dish soap to create a gentle cleaning solution.
  • Step 2: Scrub with Soapy Bubbles
Avoid soaking the porous material with too much water. Instead, use the soapy bubbles to gently scrub the dirty spots with a toothbrush.
  • Step 3: Wipe up Excess Soap
After scrubbing, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe up any excess soap and dirt.
  • Step 4: Remove All Residue
Be sure to thoroughly remove all soapy residue from the wicker to prevent any damage or discoloration.
  • Step 5: Allow to Dry Properly
To dry your wicker furniture, place it in front of a fan or outside on a warm, windy day to eliminate the possibility of mold and mildew.
what you will need for cleaning rattan furniture
Use a Toothbrush to Reach Every Nook and Cranny

How to Clean Mold from Rattan Furniture?

If unfortunately, you happen to notice some black spots on your rattan furniture and cannot remove them using the above-mentioned cleaning method, then it is likely to be mold. Not to worry - your wicker furniture is still very much salvageable. Take care of it immediately using the steps below and don't allow it to spread, preventing unsightly stains and smells.

Follow These Steps to Combat Mildew on Rattan Furniture:

Start by inspecting your furniture to identify all areas affected by mold. Then, mix a gallon of water with a cup of bleach to create a potent cleaning solution. Soak a cloth in the solution and gently scrub the moldy parts, using a soft bristle brush for those stubborn spots. Wear protective gloves while doing this. Once you've removed the mildew, rinse with clean water and dry the furniture with a soft cloth. Finally, let the sun work its magic by moving the furniture outside to dry completely. Enjoy your beautifully restored rattan furniture!

Maintenance and Upkeep of Rattan Furniture

Now you've got the cleaning down, but extending the life of your modern rattan furniture also requires proper maintenance. Although rattan vines can adapt to sudden changes in the weather, the furniture version needs some assistance. To protect against harsh elements including sun, rain, wind or snow, a hardwood garden furniture treatment application once a year is advisable.

Although synthetic wicker furniture can endure the elements, but natural rattan is porous and not suitable for uncovered outdoor spaces. How to protect rattan furniture from weather then?
  • For outdoor rattan furniture, covering it with a tarp or storing it indoors during inclement weather is a must.
  • For natural rattan furniture indoor, you should place it away from direct sunlight, as the sun can cause fading and brittleness over time.
  • Furthermore, avoiding damp or high-humidity areas is crucial to prevent mold and rot from affecting the rattan. By providing the proper maintenance and care, your rattan furniture will keep its weatherproof qualities and charm for years to come.
green rattan side chairs

Repairing Cracks and Splits on Rattan Furniture

As time passes, the natural elements can cause your cherished rattan furniture to succumb to wear and tear. So how to stop rattan furniture splitting? Fear not, for there is a simple remedy to wicker furniture repair - applying boiled linseed oil for wicker furniture annually to the affected areas. This solution functions similarly to the staining process, requiring you to apply the oil and wipe away any residual traces.

However, it's imperative to take prompt action when confronted with significant damage. For minor cracks and splits, wood glue and clamps can be used to hold the two pieces of rattan together until the glue dries. But in the case of intricate repairs or precious heirloom pieces, the services of a skilled furniture repair specialist are highly recommended.

When to Call a Professional

For instances where a broken rattan strand or large crack is present, consulting a professional furniture repair person is the best course of action. These experts possess the required expertise and tools to mend the damage and restore your rattan furniture to its original grandeur. Don't let damaged rattan furniture tarnish the overall aesthetic of your living space. Act now and revive its former glory.

Final Words:

In conclusion, caring for your rattan furniture is essential to ensure its longevity and beauty. Don't overlook the significance of regular upkeep, shielding it from the sun and dampness, pampering it with furniture polish or wax, and promptly addressing any spills or damage. By heeding these pointers, you can relish your beloved rattan furniture for a lifetime. And if you're on the lookout for a reliable rattan furniture maker or cane and rattan furniture online, look no further than Duhome - where a diverse range of rattan furniture options awaits you HERE.

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