Wicker is one of the most popular materials for both indoor and outdoor furniture. This durable and attractive material comes in an array of patterns and colors. It’s a sought-after option for creating beautiful patio spaces. If you’re wondering how to clean wicker furniture, we have some helpful tips for you. Keep these cleaning tips in mind, and you’ll be able to enjoy your beautiful new wicker patio furniture from HC Luxury Outdoor for many years to come.
How to Clean Wicker Furniture: The Basics
Wicker is a natural material made of woven plant fibers, reeds, and other materials that require a bit of special care. Start by removing any cushions on your furniture and set them aside to clean them separately. Dust your wicker furniture often using a soft cloth, feather duster, or a microfiber cleaning cloth to remove excess dirt and debris. If you see any dust or debris in the nooks and crannies, gently remove it using a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush. You can also clean your wicker furniture using the brush attachment of your vacuum. Just make sure that you set it to the lowest level to prevent damage.
Maintenance Tips
If you want to know how to clean wicker furniture throughout the year, give it a thorough cleaning at least once or twice annually. You can do this by getting a terry cloth or microfiber towel wet with lukewarm to warm water. Gently rub the cloth on top of the wicker, working from the top to the bottom. Wipe the furniture using a cleaning cloth with a bit of warm water and mild soap for heavier dirt or visible stains. This should get the stains out, and you can follow up by wiping the furniture again with another cloth and some clean water. Mold and mildew can form on wicker if it’s not stored correctly. If you see any, wipe the piece down using a mixture of about 25-percent white vinegar and 75% water, which should do the trick.
More Care and Cleaning Information
After you clean your wicker furniture, make sure that it’s completely dry before replacing the cushions. You should let it dry in the sun naturally whenever possible but if you’re in a hurry, a hair dryer can speed things up. To make an all-purpose wicker cleaning solution, use a one-quarter cup of liquid dish soap and two cups of warm water. Use this solution to wipe your beautiful wicker furniture clean using a soft cloth or a sponge. Always make sure that you rinse any excess soap away using clean, clear water. Add a cup of white vinegar to your soap and water solution to eliminate any mold or mildew. Keep these easy tips in mind, and you’ll enjoy your beautiful wicker furniture long into the future. Now, let’s take a look at a few tips to make sure your furniture is completely clean and damage-free.
Additional Care and Repair
Depending on where you live or the weather, your wicker furniture could end up getting extremely dirty while sitting outside. In this case, use a handheld steam cleaner to gently remove built-on or caked-on dirt. After you steam clean the entire piece of furniture, use your hair dryer to dry it off. Always use the hair dryer on the lowest setting and move it back and forth. Don’t place it on one section for too long. Steam clean your wicker on a sunny and windy day to help speed up the drying process.
Never press too hard on the slats of your wicker furniture, or it could cause damage. If you notice any broken slats, you should be able to use wood glue to make simple repairs. Just be sure that the glue is completely dry before you clean the furniture or sit on it.
Avoid cleaning your wicker furniture with a stiff brush, steel wool, or any cleaning products that contain abrasive ingredients. This could damage the finish or hurt natural wicker, leaving a permanent mark. Do not let your wicker furniture get saturated with water, and don’t let the water pool on top of it. This could cause the wicker to lose its shape, and it may also potentially cause permanent spots or stains. With some patience and the right care, you should be able to keep your wicker furniture clean and in great condition. This allows you to enjoy it for many seasons to come.
Interested in updating your patio with wicker furniture? We carry outdoor sofas, outdoor dining tables, outdoor dining chairs, and more made from this versatile material.
