How To Care For Wicker Patio Furniture
If you have just purchased a set of wicker furniture to place on your outdoor patio, you will want to take the time to care for it properly so it lasts for years to come. Wicker can give your patio a pleasing look if you take steps to keep it from wearing prematurely. Here are some tips to use when caring for your wicker patio furniture.
Remove Surface Debris
If you do not regularly remove dust and dirt from your furniture pieces, it will quickly become grungy-looking. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft-bristled brush attachment to remove any surface dirt from your wicker furniture. Since debris can become embedded between the woven pieces, you may need to pick out some of the particles with a pair of tweezers. You can also try using a small paintbrush to sweep away embedded dirt from these crevices.
Wash Wicker Appropriately
If you have furniture made from reed wicker, you will be able to use a mild detergent to remove caked-on dirt. Use a garden hose to lightly spray the furniture pieces and use a non-abrasive sponge dipped in the mild detergent to scrub by hand. Rinse well and dry in the sun completely. Do not sit on wet furniture as your weight can cause the wicker to break since it is not as durable when it is damp. If your furniture is made from paper wicker, it must not become wet at all and can only be cleaned by using a vacuum cleaner if you do not wish to ruin the material it is made from.
Keep Away From Sun
If you leave your wicker furniture in an area with direct sunlight, you risk having it fade. Hot conditions can also cause wicker to become brittle. If this happens, pieces will easily break off of the furniture pieces, compromising their look. Keep your furniture under an overhang or place it in a screened in area on hot summer days so it does not become overly dried out.
Avoid Excess Humidity
If your wicker is made from paper, humidity can cause it to become ruined completely. For this reason, it is better left inside unless there is no chance of rain and conditions are dry. Reed wicker is at risk for mildewing if humidity levels are excessive. If you notice areas of black or green on your wicker, spray them down with a bleach and water solution to help kill any mold spores from the furniture. Consider storing your furniture in a shed or garage during wintertime as moisture can damage the pieces. Contact a company like Modern Home 2 Go for more information.