Prolonging The Life Of Your Wicker Patio Furniture Through Proper Maintenance
There is just something about the natural fibers of wicker that makes for some of the most beautiful patio furniture the market has to offer. Unfortunately, as is the case with all-natural fibers, wicker can suffer significant damage if it is not cared for properly. Thankfully, you can help to ensure your wicker furniture stays looking and feeling great for many years to come by choosing to use the few simple maintenance tips outlined below.
Vacuum Your Wicker On A Regular Basis
Believe it or not, a simple vacuum cleaner can be your best friend when it comes to maintaining your wicker patio furniture. This is because using the brush attachment on your vacuum will allow you to easily remove dust and debris from between the tightly woven wicker without the need to use any moisture during the cleaning process. Vacuuming your wicker on a regular basis will allow you to keep it looking great without the need for frequent deep cleaning.
Never Use Harsh Chemicals On Your Wicker Furniture
In the event that your wicker patio furniture does require more in-depth cleaning than a vacuum can provide, you will want to complete this task using the most gentle process possible. Harsh chemicals can weaken the natural fibers and cause them to break down faster. In order to avoid this issue, stick to spot cleaning with warm water and dish soap. A soft cloth or toothbrush should be used in order to effectively get in between the weave of the wicker.
Always Let Your Wicker Dry Fully Before Sitting On It
If you have recently cleaned your wicker patio furniture, or if it was exposed to rain, you will need to allow the wicker to dry completely before you put any weight on it. Sitting on wet wicker can cause the wicker to sag.
Minimize Exposure To The Elements
While wicker patio furniture is designed to be left outside, it is important to take steps to minimize its exposure to the elements. The best way to accomplish this is to make sure your wicker is stored beneath a patio awning or other covering. If your patio does not offer an awning, you will need to cover the furniture with a tarp when experiencing severe weather. This is very important since excess moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew on your furniture.
In addition to minimizing the amount of moisture your wicker is exposed to, you will also want to avoid leaving your patio furniture in direct sunlight for long periods of time. Over time direct sunlight can fade the color of your wicker furniture and cause it to become overly dry and brittle.
Reach out to a local outdoor patio furniture store to learn more.
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