Use These Useful Tips To Keep Your Wicker Outdoor Furniture Looking Great

Once upon a time, wicker outdoor furniture could only be expected to last a few years at best without rigorous care. Today’s evolved wicker patio furniture is now an “all weather” option and will last decades in any climate.

Some people shy away from purchasing this type of furniture because of how hard they think it is to clean. Wicker is very versatile. It can be used throughout the home and outdoors.

Modern wicker outdoor furniture is virtually maintenance free. Here are some useful tips to clean your wicker furniture – useful if you have now removed the covers and want to use it in your patio for the summer.

• First remove dust from the furniture by vacuuming it with a dust attachment. A good quality vacuum will suck quite a bit of the dust from it, instantly making it look better.
• Make a solution to clean it with. This solution should be two tablespoons of ammonia for each gallon of water that you use. You do not need any harsh chemicals. Use a brush or paintbrush to get into the fine cracks.
• Keep the amount of water that you use to a minimum. To clean it, put the solution into a bucket and then wash as you go. Do not drench the furniture in water as this can damage it. You can rinse the wicker off with a hose if you choose too, but dry it quickly with absorbent cotton towels or cloths.
• If the wicker gets too wet, it may become limp – you will need to dry it off as soon as possible.

Regular Care of Wicker Furniture

Now it’s time to learn how to take care of and maintain wicker furniture. Maintaining the care of your wicker furniture will help you enjoy it a long time.

• Dust it. You can use a small brush or use a vacuum cleaner to do this. You should do this anytime it’s necessary.
• Clean spills quickly. Because wicker will absorb, you need to clean up anything that is spilled onto it quickly. Make sure that you wipe it with a sponge and use mildly soapy water.
• Keep it out of the rain and direct sunlight. These elements can do great damage to the quality of the piece.
• Mildew. If you find that your wicker has mildew, use a solution of 50/50 bleach water and rinse completely after 5 minutes.
• Keep it dry. Wicker needs to be completely dried if it gets soaking wet. Place it in the sun for a few hours or use a blow dryer on it. Keep water off of it as much as possible.
• Varnishing. You can use a varnish, shellac or lacquer on your wicker. This will spruce it up well. If your wicker has been painted, you can add a new coat if you like. Make sure to only apply a thin coat of liquid furniture wax so it will look good and have a nice glossy finish.

Thinking of buying or selling a home? We can help you. To learn more about Virani Real Estate Advisors or to discuss a property sale or purchase, email us at [email protected], visit one of our offices, or call 604-913-1000.