Ultimate Rattan Furniture Care Guide

Caring for rattan furniture is essential to ensure its longlasting beauty and durability.

Rattan furniture is a popular choice for Australian homes because of its natural look and eco-friendliness. A fast-growing tropical vine, rattan is valued as a weaving material because it is both flexible and very strong. These features make it a sustainable material option for furniture.

Once harvested, the canes can be trimmed and used in a wide variety of ways - from weaving large baskets with the whole canes to using slender strips of the bark to weave small items or intricately patterned seats for chairs. It's so versatile you might be surprised at the different items you've seen that are actually made from the same vine!

The Importance of Proper Cleaning and Maintenance for Rattan Furniture

Regular cleaning is a must to keep your rattan furniture looking good as new and extend its lifespan. Incorporate our tips on cleaning and maintenance below into your regular routines and you will reap the benefits long term.

Rattan is a natural material and so, as well as cleaning, it's important to protect your furniture from the elements.

To protect your natural rattan furniture from sun damage, keep it away from direct sunlight or use protective covers when not in use. Direct sunlight can cause fading and drying out of the fibres over time.

Just like any other natural material, rattan can be susceptible to damage from water. You won't want to let the rattan sit wet for any period of time as this can not only weaken the fibres but also allow mould to start to grow. Make sure you keep your rattan furniture in a dry environment and if it does get wet, make sure it can dry out quickly afterwards.

Attend to any loose canes as quickly as possible. If you see any of the canes or poles have become unwoven, slip them back into place by hand. That will prevent them getting caught on things and being broken off.

Tips for Effective Cleaning of Rattan Furniture

To clean rattan furniture effectively, it's important to use the right tools and techniques. Here are some tips to help you keep your rattan furniture looking its best.

Use a soft brush

To clean your rattan furniture, use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum with a brush attachment - this will easily remove any dust or debris and is easy to incorporate into your regular housework routines.

If there are hard-to-reach areas on your rattan furniture that need cleaning, consider using an upholstery brush. This can help you get into tight spaces without causing any damage.

Use a soft, damp cloth

When cleaning your rattan furniture, use a soft cloth to remove any dirt. This will help prevent scratches and other damage to the surface of the furniture.

Avoid excessive water and cleaning solutions

Rattan is a natural material that can be easily damaged by harsh cleaning solutions. Instead, stick to a damp cloth with a little gentle detergent if necessary.

Using excessive water to clean your rattan could leave it damp after you're finished and that could allow it to grow mould. It's best to use as little water as possible so that your furniture piece and dry out quickly afterwards.

If you do need to wash it with a lot of water, make sure to place the furniture in the sun to dry out as quickly as possible afterwards.

Address mould promptly

If you live in a humid or damp environment and you notice mould growing on your rattan furniture, it's important to address the issue promptly. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove the mould, then wipe down the area with a damp cloth. Allow the area to dry completely before using the furniture again.

Clean regularly

To keep your rattan furniture looking its best, it's important to clean it regularly. This will help prevent dirt and debris from building up over time.

By following these tips for effective cleaning of rattan furniture, you can help prolong its lifespan and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

Remember that prevention is better than cure when it comes to caring for your belongings.