Outdoor Wicker Patio Furniture – Helpful tips for choosing the right one for your needs
Now that you’ve invested in patio furniture, you’ll want to ensure that it will provide lasting enjoyment. Luckily, wicker patio furniture sets can be well maintained for years with only a few simple steps.
Unlike other types of furniture, wicker has some special requirements. Without proper care, wicker can dry out, warp or crack. Simply follow these five tips for lasting beauty from your wicker furniture:
Select High Quality Furniture: This is probably the most crucial element in making sure you will have lasting patio furniture. For wicker furniture, quality pieces should have a metal frame, usually aluminum, and the wicker weave will be very tight without any gaps, or loose ends that let the frame show through.
Remove Dirt and Grime: You can avoid grimy build-up that occurs natural over time and exposure to the elements by wiping down your furniture occasionally with a lightly dampened cloth and mild detergent. Make sure you don’t get the furniture too wet since soggy wicker can stretch and warp. For a more thorough cleaning, you can also use a garden hose. However, avoid using this on antique or painted furniture which may be damaged by a strong water spray.
Prevent Wicker From Drying Out: Wicker patio furniture sets should be located in the shade. Natural wicker fibers can become dry and brittle when subjected to direct sunlight. Your furniture should also be kept covered and sheltered from inclement weather. If your wicker does get wet, do not allow anyone to use them before they are totally dry. Wet wicker is very fragile and can easily be permanently damaged.
Restore Moisture: At least once a year, you should apply oil to your furniture to retain moisture. Make sure your pieces are dry and then apply boiled linseed oil to the wicker. After you wipe it off with clean paper towels, your wicker should appear shiny. If it does not, continue to apply coats of oil until the wicker weave no longer absorbs the oil. Be aware that linseed oil is flammable and care should be taken when disposing the used paper towels. Let your furniture dry for 24 hours before using it again.
Protect Your Furniture in the Off-Season: When the cold weather hits, it is time to move your wicker furniture indoors to a dry, protected location. If you do not have room to store the furniture during the winter, purchase a high quality cover for your furniture. Wicker patio furniture sets are susceptible to damage if left outside for extended periods during inclement weather.
With the right care, wicker can be an inviting addition to any patio. The vast number of styles and colors of wicker available today mean that it can complement almost any dcor. Wicker furniture today comes in contemporary pieces as well as more traditional styling. By selecting the right pieces and giving them the proper care, you can have beautiful furniture that will bring you years of outdoor entertaining enjoyment with family and friends.
Don’t limit yourself when searching for the right resin wicker outdoor furniture. Stop by outdoor wicker patio furniture to discover the many possibilities awaiting your home.
