Do you love the look of wicker furniture, but hate the way it gets dirty? If so, you are not alone. Wicker furniture can be a real pain to clean, but it doesn’t have to be.
Get excited because we’re about to reveal the secrets to cleaning and maintaining your beloved pieces. In this article, we’ve got you covered with practical tips and tricks that will breathe new life into your wicker and make it last longer.
By the end of this article, you’ll know how to clean wicker furniture like a pro. So let’s get started.
What is Wicker?
Wicker, a fascinating term, is not just a type of furniture but rather a skillful technique that weaves and bends natural materials into beautiful creations. The material used for wicker can vary, but they typically include natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, and willow. Wicker furniture is often used for outdoor settings, as it is lightweight and can withstand the elements.
Wicker Made of Bamboo, Rattan, or Willow
Wicker made of bamboo, rattan, or willow is a natural material that can be susceptible to dirt, grime, and mold. However, it is also a relatively easy material to clean.
For routine cleaning, you can simply brush off or vacuum as much of the surface dirt as you can. Then, wash the wicker with a soft brush and soapy water mixed with 1 or 2 teaspoons of ammonia. Rinse well and let the piece dry outside in the sun.
If you need to remove more stubborn grime, you can use a mild oil-based soap, such as Murphy Oil Soap, diluted with warm water. Be sure to follow any ventilation recommendations and other precautions stated on the soap bottle.
For a homemade cleaning, you can mix ¼ cup of ammonia, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, and 1 quart of warm water. Patio furniture cleaners may also work for outdoor wicker furniture. But, be sure to read the directions carefully. Some of them need to be diluted before use on wicker furniture.
Tips to clean wicker furniture made of bamboo, rattan, or willow:
Use a soft brush to avoid damaging the wicker.
Rinse the wicker thoroughly after cleaning to remove any soap residue.
Let the wicker dry completely in the sun
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the wicker.
General Wicker Cleaning
General wicker cleaning is a breeze when you know the tricks of the trade. Here are some general wicker-cleaning tips:
To start, remove the cushions and clean them separately, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This is because different fabrics require specific care.
Regular dusting with a soft cloth, microfiber duster, or feather duster will keep your wicker looking fantastic.
For those pesky spots where dust gathers, grab a small soft-bristled paintbrush or an old toothbrush to reach the crevices.
Make it a habit to vacuum your wicker furniture regularly, using the brush attachment and keeping the suction at its lowest level to avoid damage.
To give your wicker a thorough cleaning once or twice a year, moisten a microfiber cloth or terry towel with warm water. Now rub the surface gently.
For heavier dirt and stains, use a cloth lightly moistened with warm water and mild soap, followed by a wipe with plain water.
If you are tackling a mold and mildew, wipe with a mixture of 25% white vinegar and 75% water. After that, wipe again with plain water. Before putting the cushions back, ensure your wicker is dry. Let it bask in the sun or use a hair dryer to speed up the process.
Outdoor Wicker Cleaning
Outdoor wicker cleaning can be a breeze with the right approach! Here are the steps for outdoor wicker care:
To start, mix ¼ cup of liquid dish soap with two cups of warm water to create a purposeful cleaning solution.
Now wipe the wicker using a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse away the soapy suds with the garden hose.
When dealing with tough dirt and stains, combine the same solution with a soft brush. You can also use the old toothbrush to reach all those nooks and crannies.
Rinse the plain water thoroughly and make sure to dry everything properly.
For extremely dirty outdoor wicker, consider using a handheld steam cleaner. After Steam-cleaning the entire piece, be sure to dry it thoroughly with a hair dryer to avoid any bending or deformation.
To clean outdoor furniture, opt for a sunny, windy day to ensure quick drying.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips for wicker cleaning that you’ll find handy:
Handle your wicker furniture with care. Avoid pressing too hard on the slats to prevent any accidental damage to your wicker furniture.
Take a moment to inspect your wicker furniture regularly. With this, you will be able to detect signs of wear, loose weaving, or any potential issues.
Never let the water pool or saturate your wicker. Excessive moisture can lead to spotting, deformity, or both. Ensure to wipe away any excess water promptly.
Consider using protective covers for your outdoor wicker furniture during harsh conditions or when not in use.
If you encounter damaged or broken slats, use wood glue like Titebond to make repairs. Allow ample drying time before continuing with the cleaning process.
FAQ
How to get rid of smells in wicker furniture?
To get rid of smells in wicker furniture, follow these steps:
Clean the surface: Start by cleaning the wicker furniture with a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust, debris, or loose particles trapped on the door.
Vinegar solution: Create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution over the wicker, making sure not to soak it.
Baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the wicker, especially in the areas where the smell is most concentrated. Baking soda is an excellent natural deodorizer that can absorb and neutralize odors. Leave it for a few hours or overnight if the smell is particularly strong.
How to treat wicker furniture for outdoor use?
To properly treat wicker furniture for outdoor use, it’s essential to apply oil to the furniture. This step is crucial as exposure to moisture can cause the wicker fibers to soften and stretch. This makes the furniture unsafe for sitting or other uses. When preparing the furniture for outdoor use, apply Tung oil using a soft cloth. This will protect the wicker and maintain its integrity in outdoor conditions.
How to clean bird poop off wicker furniture?
To clean bird droppings off wicker furniture, mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of water to create a gentle solution. You can use a spray bottle to apply the mixture or pour it directly onto the affected area. Now, use a clean cloth or paper towel to gently sponge the bird poop stain with the soapy solution. After sponging the stain, blot it with a cloth or paper towel until the liquid is absorbed.
How to clean pollen off of wicker furniture?
You can clean the pollen off wicker furniture using dry cleaning or damp cleaning depending on the severity. For dry cleaning use a soft bristle brush or vacuum cleaner with brush attachment. For damp cleaning, dampen a clean cloth or sponge with water and clean gently.