Wicker and rattan furniture can either be made out of natural or man-made fibers. Each is treated differently . For natural wicker, avoid over using water for man-made it is the opposite.
- Since most wicker is varnished or painted, regular cleaning simply involves dusting or vacuuming and an occasional light cleaning with a sponge, warm water, wood soap (such as Murphys Oil Soap) and a soft brush for between the weaves.
- Do not over-wet and dry as soon as possible with a dry cloth.
- You can give some protection to wicker with a light coating of aerosol furniture polish.
- Outdoor wicker, more likely to be man-made, can take a more rigorous cleaning. You can use more aggressive cleaners and brushes. However, after hosing off try to dry the piece as quickly as possible set it in the sun or near a fan.
Precautions:
If your wicker furniture creaks excessively then the fibers may have dried out and need some moisture restored. You can simply wipe it down with a damp sponge.
Also, over-exposure to sun, rain and the elements will shorten the life of wicker considerably.
