Does your wicker garden furniture need some love? If your wicker furniture is exposed to the elements it will require a bit more maintenance than anything indoors. The sun, wind and rain can certainly dirty up your outdoor furniture and make it uncomfortable, unsightly and shorten its lifespan. Here are a few tips to cleaning:
Wash Frequently
Don’t neglect your wicker garden furniture. When necessary remove ground in dirt and scrub stains with a watered dampened towel or cloth. If you have a garden hose handy and mister spray a fine mist over your furniture with a mild detergent. This is great for natural fibers like reeds, rattan and bamboo. Make sure you rinse the furniture and remove any detergents. It is critical to let them dry in the direct sunlight . If you are in a humid environment mold and mildew will grow if you let it. In Florida for example it is especially important to remove water and let dry in the sunlight.
Vacuum Your Wicker
When necessary or at least a few times a month take a vacuum and clean your wicker garden furniture. If you have a brush that attaches to the end of your vacuum use that to penetrate the woven fibers. This is a good way to get things out of the nooks and crannies. Vacuuming is usually safe for all kinds of wicker. Be careful of shop or super strong vacuums as they may cause damage.
Removing Mold and Mildew
If your furniture is outdoors and you are in a humid climate chances are that you will eventually find some mold and mildew. Use of combination of warm water and bleach to clean your wicker. This works well on bamboo, willow, rattan or reed. You can apply the solution of bleach and warm water with a cloth and/or soft brush. If possible, use your mister on the garden hose to rinse your wicker furniture. Don’t blast with a strong sprayer as that may cause damage. Shake dry and remove any standing water that you can and let it sit in the direct sunlight.
Mold and mildew like damp environments with little to no sunlight. If possible keep your outdoor wicker patio furniture in the direct sun. If you use it in a covered location take it out the sunlight every few weeks to give it some fresh light. This will help keep the mold and mildew from growing. This is especially important with white wicker furniture.
Keeping your outdoor wicker garden furniture clean will make it last longer. Consistent cleaning and maintenance will keep it strong, pretty and inviting. Outdoor wicker patio furniture can provide years of enjoyment if maintained well..
