When shopping for outdoor furniture, you may wonder “What is rattan wicker?” Surprisingly, many people called wicker a weaving process, not a type of material. In fact, wicker refers to different types of vines and plants used for making furniture. Wicker is not only natural material but also made from artificial materials that are strong and durable for outdoor use.
Everything you need to know about wicker
Indoor versus Outdoor
Indoor wicker furniture and outdoor wicker furniture are not the same.
Outdoor furniture manufacturers usually choose synthetic wicker or poly rattan.
Outdoor wicker sofa set
These materials can withstand harsh weather, protect the furniture from hot sunlight, windy air or any extreme climate.
For indoor wicker furniture, natural materials like bamboo, cane or rattan are common choices.
The production process
The process of weaving furniture is the same regarding natural and synthetic materials. That’s why there is no difference between the appearances of outdoor poly rattan furniture and indoor natural rattan furniture.
Outdoor wicker looks the same as real wicker
There are lots of styles and weaving types for you, from traditional wicker weaving to more modern and elegant style. You can find wicker furniture with neutral tones, natural colors or even colorful tones.
Material in wicker
There are a variety of material types used in weaving a piece of wicker furniture.
For indoor use, there are many common natural materials: bamboo, rattan, reed, willow. Rattan is the most used material in making indoor wicker. It also used in creating a frame for wicker to be woven around.
Good looking indoor wicker sofa set
These materials, however, should only be indoor. The outdoor extreme sunlight or moisture can easily destroy this wicker furniture, especially in countries with unpredictable weather.
Outdoor wicker furniture is different. Manufacturers usually use synthetic rattan or artificial wicker weaving around an aluminum frame to create outdoor furniture.
Tropical tone outdoor rattan wicker furniture
The metal frame and polyethylene fibers can still keep the natural look of real rattan while being durable against harsh weather.
Wicker furniture maintenance
Although outdoor wicker furniture can withstand sunlight and wind, a little care will help it last longer. Remember to clean up rainwater or any liquid on synthetic wicker furniture.
Clean up water on wicker furniture
Sometimes, it’s best to keep wicker furniture under shade to retain its color and prevent cracking.
Keep wicker furniture under shade
A large outdoor parasol is a good choice, or you can place outdoor wicker furniture under the protection of awnings or roofs.
An annual maintenance is recommended to keep the fresh looking for your outdoor wicker furniture and also for your refresh outdoor spaces.
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