With all this rain we’ve had recently, surely we’re due a fantastic summer? I can’t be the only one who’s desperate to get outdoors and enjoy the garden. We can only hope that many weeks of BBQ’s and al fresco dining lie ahead.
Although, this brings up the small problem of getting your garden furniture out of winter hibernation. And if it is looking a little grubby, don’t fret, with a little TLC, you can have that garden furniture looking as good as new.
If you have wicker garden furniture that is synthetic and constructed from a plastic or poly weave, then your job is a little easier than most.
It is totally weatherproof and built around a rust-free aluminium frame, which is powder coated for additional protection. The high-quality synthetic wicker thread that is then woven around the framework, repels moisture, is UV-resistant and colourfast too.
However, you can significantly extend the life of synthetic rattan and wicker by cleaning it correctly at regular intervals and by preventing damage to the wicker weave. All you really need to use is a bucket of warm water, a soft sponge or cloth and a mild washing-up liquid.
Once washed, rinse down the furniture with cold water. You can use a garden hose, but do not use a pressure washer. They are simply too powerful and can easily damage the furniture. And please do not clean your rattan and wicker garden furniture with any scouring or bleach based cleaners too. Multi-purpose cleaners are also a no no as they can lead to tiny cracks in the wicker weave that collect dirt and can cause the furniture to discolour.
If your rattan and wicker garden furniture has been exposed to the elements for a good period of time, then it may require a little extra careful maintenance. Exposure to sun, wind and rain will cause dirt to build up between the wicker weave. If you can’t effectively clean the surface with just washing-up liquid, then we would recommend the use of specialist plastic garden furniture cleaner.
Don’t neglect your rattan furniture, when it is necessary to remove ground in dirt and stains with a damp sponge or cloth, please do so immediately. When necessary or at least every few months, its a also good idea to take a vacuum cleaner and hoover off your rattan and wicker garden furniture. Make sure it is completely dry and if you have a brush attachment for the end of your vacuum then use this, as it will penetrate between the wicker weave, removing all the loose dirt.
