How to Protect Your Wicker and Rattan Furniture in a Climate

Wicker and rattan furniture bring a natural, elegant charm to any home, especially in warm, tropical climates like Florida. However, high humidity and fluctuating temperatures can damage these organic materials over time. With the right care and maintenance techniques, you can protect your wicker and rattan furniture from Florida’s climate challenges. Whether you’re in humid regions like Venice, FL, or just want to preserve your furniture for years to come, follow these tips for keeping your furniture in top condition.

Understanding Wicker and Rattan Furniture

Wicker and rattan furniture often get mixed up, but they refer to different things. Rattan is a type of vine-like plant that produces durable and flexible material, ideal for furniture. Wicker, on the other hand, refers to the weaving process used to create the furniture, which can involve materials like rattan, bamboo, or even synthetic fibers.

Both wicker and rattan are sensitive to environmental conditions, and with Florida’s intense humidity, they require special care. This type of furniture can absorb moisture from the air, which can lead to mold, mildew, and structural weakening. Fortunately, with a few simple strategies, you can maintain the beauty and integrity of your wicker and rattan furniture in humid climates.

Why Humidity and Heat Impact Wicker and Rattan Furniture

Florida’s tropical climate presents unique challenges for natural furniture. High humidity levels cause the plant-based fibers to expand and contract, which can lead to cracking or splitting over time. Prolonged exposure to moisture can also lead to mold and mildew growth, which not only damages the appearance of the furniture but can weaken its structure.

For those in regions with high humidity like Venice, FL, proper wicker furniture maintenance is crucial. Protecting rattan furniture in Florida’s humidity involves taking proactive steps to guard against moisture buildup, which is the main culprit of wicker and rattan deterioration.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Wicker and Rattan Furniture

Regular Cleaning to Prevent Moisture Buildup

Keeping wicker and rattan furniture clean is essential in humid climates. Dust and dirt can attract moisture, increasing the risk of mold and mildew.

1. Dusting and Vacuuming: Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum to remove dust and dirt from crevices. A microfiber cloth can also work well for lightly dusting surfaces.
2. Deep Cleaning with Mild Soap: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with water, and gently clean the furniture using a soft cloth. Be sure not to saturate the wicker, as excess water can lead to mold growth.
3. Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: Harsh cleaners can weaken and discolor the natural fibers of wicker and rattan. Stick to mild, natural cleaners whenever possible.

Use a Dehumidifier for Indoor Wicker Furniture

One effective way to protect rattan furniture in Florida humidity is by controlling indoor moisture levels. If you keep wicker furniture indoors, especially in spaces like sunrooms or enclosed patios, a dehumidifier can reduce the amount of humidity in the air.

• Set the Dehumidifier to a Comfortable Level: For optimal results, aim for a relative humidity level between 30% and 50%. This level helps protect your furniture while keeping the indoor climate comfortable.
• Circulate Air with Fans: Ceiling or floor fans can also help reduce indoor humidity and prevent stagnant air from affecting your furniture.

Keep Wicker and Rattan Furniture Out of Direct Sunlight

Exposure to direct sunlight can weaken wicker and rattan over time, causing fading and drying out the fibers.

• Place Furniture in Shaded Areas: When arranging furniture outdoors, position it in shaded areas like under a pergola or an awning. For indoor spaces, avoid placing wicker furniture near windows where it may receive direct sunlight.
• Use UV-Resistant Covers or Treatments: Consider applying a UV-resistant varnish or sealant to protect outdoor wicker furniture from sun damage. These treatments can reduce the risk of fading and cracking by blocking UV rays.

Protecting Outdoor Wicker and Rattan Furniture

Invest in High-Quality, Waterproof Covers

For outdoor wicker furniture, waterproof covers are a must. Quality covers will shield the furniture from both rain and humidity, preventing moisture from penetrating the fibers.

• Choose Breathable Covers: Look for covers that allow for some airflow to prevent condensation from building up underneath, which could lead to mold and mildew growth.
• Cover Only When Needed: Avoid leaving covers on furniture all the time, as this can trap humidity underneath. Uncover the furniture when not in use to allow it to “breathe.”

Apply a Water-Repellent Sealant for Extra Protection

A water-repellent sealant or lacquer can act as a protective barrier for outdoor furniture, especially during Florida’s rainy season. This is an essential step in wicker furniture maintenance in Venice, FL, where rainfall and humidity levels can be extreme.

• Choose a Sealant Compatible with Rattan: Make sure the product is designed for natural fibers and does not contain harmful chemicals that could damage the material.
• Reapply Annually: For the best protection, apply the sealant every year to reinforce the barrier against moisture. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results.

Store Furniture Indoors During the Off-Season

If possible, bring outdoor wicker and rattan furniture indoors during seasons with higher rainfall or intense humidity. An enclosed patio, garage, or storage space with climate control is ideal for keeping the furniture safe from environmental extremes.

• Inspect Furniture Before Storing: Clean the furniture thoroughly and check for any signs of damage, like cracks or splits, which should be addressed before storage.
• Use Climate-Controlled Storage When Available: A climate-controlled storage unit can protect your furniture from extreme weather conditions, especially for valuable or vintage pieces.

Caring for Mold and Mildew on Wicker Furniture

In humid climates, mold and mildew can still develop despite your best efforts. Regularly inspect your wicker and rattan furniture to catch any early signs.

1. Remove Mildew with a Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, then gently scrub the affected areas with a soft brush. This natural solution kills mildew without damaging the fibers.
2. Dry Thoroughly After Cleaning: After removing any mold or mildew, ensure the furniture dries completely in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent further damage.
3. Prevent Recurrence with Regular Checks: Regularly inspect your furniture for any musty smells or discoloration that could indicate mold growth. By catching it early, you can prevent significant damage.

Seasonal Care and Maintenance Tips

To protect rattan furniture in Florida’s humidity, create a seasonal maintenance routine that aligns with local climate patterns.

Spring Preparation

As temperatures begin to rise, prepare your furniture for summer humidity and occasional rain showers.

• Clean and Seal: Start the season with a deep clean and apply a fresh coat of water-repellent sealant.
• Inspect for Cracks or Loose Weaving: Address any minor issues early on to prevent worsening under humid conditions.

Summer Protection

With high heat and humidity, summer is the most challenging season for wicker furniture.

• Increase Dehumidifier Use Indoors: If you have wicker furniture inside, keeping the air as dry as possible will make a significant difference.
• Regularly Cover Outdoor Furniture: Be diligent with using covers, but ensure the furniture gets occasional air exposure to prevent mold growth.

Fall and Winter Care

In Florida, winters are typically milder, so it’s an ideal time to assess and maintain your furniture.

• Store Indoor Furniture Away from Heaters: Excessive dry heat can damage wicker fibers, so keep furniture away from heaters and fireplaces.
• Deep Clean Before Storing: For any pieces you store away, give them a final deep clean to remove accumulated dust and grime before packing them up.

Conclusion

Protecting wicker and rattan furniture in humid climates like Florida’s requires consistent care and preventive measures. By keeping your furniture clean, managing humidity levels, and protecting it from direct sunlight and moisture, you can significantly extend the life of these beautiful, natural pieces. Remember to perform regular maintenance and seasonal care, especially in humid areas like Venice, FL, where wicker furniture maintenance is essential. With these steps, your wicker and rattan furniture can withstand the challenges of a tropical climate and continue enhancing your living space for years to come.

Transform Your Space with Rattan Wicker & Cane

Here at Rattan Wicker & Cane, we take immense pride in being your trusted, family-owned destination for quality indoor and outdoor furniture since 1979. We’re passionate about helping you create beautiful spaces with our wide selection of high-quality rattan, wicker, fine upholstery, and unique home accessories. Voted Best of Venice for indoor and patio furniture, we’re committed to making your experience exceptional because our customers are always our top priority. Reach out to us today and discover the perfect pieces to transform your home — we can’t wait to hear from you!

Categorised in: Wicker Furniture

This post was written by admin