How to Care for Wicker Furniture

Wicker furniture can turn your backyard or deck into a beautiful area that is inviting and comfortable. To keep it looking the best it can, you must be diligent about maintaining it. Your furniture will be subjected to a number of environmental factors that can leave it looking old, dirty, and cause it to crack and crackle. The first step to taking care of wicker furniture is to make sure you buy the right kind. If you are placing it outside, be certain to get wicker outdoor furniture that is made for the outdoors. Typically, it will have been made with materials and treated with a finish that resists damage from moisture and exposure to sunlight.

For regular maintenance, use a vacuum to remove as much debris as you can from the furniture. Being outside in the wind can cause your tables and chairs to accumulate all types of particulate matter like dirt, dust, and pollen. To make it easier to clean the furniture, get as much of the big stuff off as you can. You can use a dry paintbrush that has never been used to get the dirt caught in the crevices. An awl or tweezers can be used to get at particularly stubborn material.

After you have gotten the large dirt particles off the furniture, make a solution of detergent and water. Using a damp sponge, scoop up the suds and gently clean your wicker chairs and wicker coffee tables in small sections. You want to be as careful and gentle as possible. Water can strip away the finish on your furniture which you want to avoid. Once a year, however, you can use water to deep clean your furniture and then and repaint it with the varnish of your choice. Dry your furniture as quickly as possible to avoid mold developing. This can be accomplished using a hair dryer or putting a fan nearby.

If you do notice that mold is growing on your furniture, clean the spot immediately using a soft brush and solution of bleach and water. It may be a good idea to move the furniture to a different spot as the development of mold could mean that air is not circulating very well in the area you currently have it. To give it an updated look, change the color of your furniture using paint approved for wicker. You can also add padded cushions to extend the life of your furniture and blend it into your décor.

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