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Wicker Garden Furniture Care Tips

19 December 2009

Wicker garden furniture provides a great look for use in the garden or indoors. Whether you’re shopping for patio furniture, conservatory sofa sets, or lounge chairs, you should be sure that you buy high quality wicker furniture because it is stronger and less likely to fade or corrode. The weather resistant properties of synthetic wicker and the great looks and lightweight durability of powder-coated aluminum make these the most common material choices in the construction of long lasting garden furniture or patio furniture sets.

Seasonal Use

Plastic and even natural materials can easily and quickly become discoloured or corrode when left outside. Alarmingly, this includes their use in the sun. Even though garden furniture is most commonly used during the summer months in order to enjoy the clement weather, prolonged exposure to the potentially harmful UV rays can lead to discolouration, warping, bending, and other problems. While this may be a problem with some garden furniture, it isn’t a consideration with synthetic wicker and you can leave your new garden furniture outdoors throughout the year.

Scratches And Bumps

Furniture can get knocked easily, especially if you have young children or pets. Synthetic wicker is largely wear resistant and even if it is subject to scratches, they will not be noticeable because the material is coloured right through to the core. While there will be no discolouration from scratches and bumps it can prove beneficial to give the area a quick clean in order to prevent dust and dirt from becoming ground into the material.

General Maintenance And Regular Wicker Care

Regular maintenance is a good idea with any piece of furniture. Not only does it keep it looking pristine but it can prevent dirt and grime from taking a hold, especially with outdoor furniture. Fortunately, regular maintenance of wicker furniture is a very simple process. Remove any cushions or covers from the furniture and then simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. You needn’t use any detergents or other cleaning liquids although you can use soapy water if you wish.

Other Materials Used In Garden Furniture

Most garden furniture relies on the use of other materials as well as the wicker itself. Frames can be created from aluminum and table tops from tempered glass. Both of these materials are simple to care for as well. Dust them when you dust the rest of your furniture and give them a wipe down before or after use in the same way you would with any dining table or coffee table. This helps ensure your patio furniture looks good.

Cushion And Material Care

Wicker outdoor chairs and lounge chairs typically include a cushion and cushion cover. In some cases, they may have a selection of interchangeable covers giving you more design options and greater flexibility. Simply remove the cushions, take off the cushion covers, and wash these as normal in order to enjoy the best results. You can even give them a quick once over when you vacuum.

Furniture Covers

While wicker garden furniture is weatherproof and will withstand virtually any weather condition, you can buy covers to place over the furniture. This is especially useful if you do leave them outdoors because while they may not discolour from the weather, the cover will protect your furniture from other potential problems like animal mess and it will keep dirt and debris away from the surface so the furniture is ready to use come a sunny day.

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