How to Care for Wicker Furniture Made of Rattan or Vine in Summer 2025

How Wicker Furniture Requires Special Attention During Summer

Wicker furniture wrought from rattan or vines brings a quaint and rustic charm to a garden, patio or porch. But did you know summer heat and dampness can seriously shorten it’s lifespan?

As outdoor living continues to trend in 2025, it becomes more imperative to safeguard your outdoor investments. In regions where humidity is high, sunlight and moisture can dry, crack and warp rattan or vine materials. Without proper care, what was once an inviting outdoor nook can transform to a maintenance nightmare.

So what should you do to keep it cozy and inviting while looking its best throughout the summer?

Who should continue reading this article?

• Homeowners with outdoor wicker furniture sets
• Gardeners who love natural materials
• Curating Stylists for lounges Outside
• Owners of Airbnbs or rental properties with outdoor sitting areas

In this guide, you will learn everything from daily cleaning rituals, protection smart methods, easy damage fixes, care trends from the US and Europe, and the newest trends.

Getting Your Wicker Furniture Ready For The Season

Look Over Furniture

Make sure to check the patio chairs for any signs of mold, fading color, broken weaves, or any loose colors before bringing them out. Using a flashlight to check for cracks and brittleness in the woven areas will spare you from more thorough inspections later on.

Checklist:

• Presence of mold and mildew.
• Rust forming on metal.
• Loose or cracked fibers.

Finding wear and tear at this stage will definitely aid in saving both money and effort in the long run.

Gentle Cleaning

Cleaning like a professional includes steering clear from bleach and other harsh chemicals. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a vacuum for rattan to prevent dust build up. Rinsing thoroughly with warm water after using dish soap works very effectively for tough grime.

DIY Cleaning Solution:

• 1 teaspoon white vinegar (only for disinfecting)
• 2 cups warm water (
• 1 teaspoon dish soap

Scrubbing gently and wiping down treated areas with damp cloths will aid in speedier recovery. Air drying away from direct sunlight is advised for thorough furniture drying.

Basic Summer Furniture Care

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

Regular cleaning is often disregarded, however lack of dirt doesn’t necessary mean lack of damage. Light wiping every week goes a long way in maintaining furniture in peak condition.

Weekly Tasks:

• Surface cleanup treatment
• Restoration of upholstered furniture
• Moisture assessment; check optimally after rain

Incorrect Approaches to Furniture Maintenance

• Power washers are not suitable (will damage fibers)
• Failure to remove excess water from furniture (can cause damage due to expansion)
• Installation of furniture directly under sun
• Leaving furniture outside during summer storms — if this sounds familiar, keep reading.

How to Protect Wicker Furniture from Seasonal Impact?

Blocking Rain and Sun with Wicker

Wicker is appropriate for outdoor use, but constant exposure to sun or heavy rain is detrimental. Purchasing high-quality covers or relocating furniture to shaded areas can significantly help.

Best Protection Methods:

Furniture Preservation: To Store Or Not To Store?

For residents of regions with high humidity levels and regular rainfall, there is a strong recommendation to store the furniture or cover it nightly.

Think of furniture covers as sunscreen: while not needed every second, they are vital for long-term safeguarding.

Maintaining Synthetic Rattan: Does It Require Less Work?

While synthetic rattan wicker (PE rattan) is more moisture resistant and has better UV properties, it does require attention.

Do’s and Don’ts:

• Do avoid neglecting the cleaning, as it will cause dirt to accumulate.
• Do apply diluted soap like you would on natural wicker.
• Don’t use solvent based sprays or bleach for cleaning.
• Don’t pull the furniture over concrete due to possible frame damage.

As an additional note, synthetic options can crack due to excessive heat. Covering or keeping them shaded maintains their appearance and shape.

Repairing Damaged Wicker: Quick Solutions

No one enjoys discovering frayed ends or broken loops. Before tossing these items, remember you can restore them.

Basic Repair Kit:

• Reed or vine replacement
• Wood glue or craft glue
• Small scissors or wire cutters
• Optional: clear varnish

Step-by-Step:

1. Cut the broken part.
2. Adhesive should be applied to fresh piece.
3. Gently position it into place.
4. Fun fact: In vintage wicker chairs, with some TLC, they can last over 70 years. After repair, let the chair dry and seal if needed.

Wicker Care Updates In 2025

Clear wax finishes and UV-blocking oils are becoming increasingly used in the U.S. and Europe. Additionally, plant-based sealants, as well as natural oils, are being preferred since they are safer options.

Alternative Eco-Friendly Treatments:

• Hydration: linseed oil
• Beeswax for a subtle shine
• Citrus mold prevention

Without sacrificing backyard space, ventilated deck boxes and stackable modular sheds provide furniture owners the ability to protectively store their outdoor furniture.

Would you consider using beeswax polish instead of synthetic sprays? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Summary: Your Checklist for Summer Wicker Furniture Maintenance

• Check your wicker for any signs of damage.
• Remove dirt with mild soap and water and let dry.
• Use breathable outdoor covers and keep furniture out of direct sunlight.
• Patch small damages rather than replace the whole piece.
• Use updated care methods and eco-friendly sealants.

What’s your best tip for protecting outdoor furniture? Any magical tips to share? Let us know so we can keep porches pretty and practical!

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