Picture this: a sunny day, a beautifully arranged garden, and you lounging on your rattan garden furniture. It's the perfect setting for a garden party or a lazy Sunday with a book and a cup of tea (or something stronger). But how do you keep this stylish and durable furniture looking fabulous? Fear not! Our handy guide will show you how to keep your rattan furniture clean and healthy, even if you're new to owning it.
Let's jump into it.

The Basics: Understanding Rattan

Natural Rattan vs Synthetic Rattan

First things first: rattan can be natural or synthetic. Natural rattan, a type of vine, has a beautiful rustic charm but requires a bit more TLC. Synthetic rattan (often made from plastic) mimics the look but is more resilient to the elements – and possibly more forgiving if you forget it outside during a surprise British summer shower. Regardless of your choice, regular maintenance will keep your furniture looking top-notch.

Cleaning Rattan Furniture: Step by Step

Gather Your Cleaning Arsenal: Before we dive into the cleaning process, let's make sure you have the right cleaning supplies at your disposal. You'll need a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush, mild dish soap or rattan cleaner, warm water, a microfiber cloth, and optional furniture wax or oil for protection. Now, let the cleaning commence!

Rattan Garden furniture care guide

1.Dust Off the Drama: Before you get into the nitty-gritty, give your rattan furniture a good dusting. Use a soft cloth or a feather duster to remove loose dirt and dust. If you’re feeling fancy, a vacuum with a brush attachment works wonders.
2. The Soapy Solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals like the plague – they’re a no-go for rattan. Grab a soft cloth or sponge, dip it in the soapy water, and gently wipe down the furniture. For those intricate weaves, a soft-bristled toothbrush can be your secret weapon. Think of it as a spa day for your furniture.
3. Rinse and Shine: After a soapy wipe-down, rinse your furniture with clean water to remove any soap residue. A hose on a gentle setting or a clean, damp cloth will do the trick. Make sure not to soak the furniture, especially if it's natural rattan, as excessive moisture can lead to mildew or warping.
4. Drying Time: This step is crucial. Thoroughly dry your rattan furniture with a towel to remove as much moisture as possible. Then, let it air dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight for prolonged periods – think of it as keeping your rattan from getting a sunburn.

Caring for Your Rattan Furniture: Long-Term Tips

While rattan is generally weatherproof and requires little upkeep, a little care goes a long way for any well-crafted piece of furniture. To ensure that your rattan furniture retains its pristine condition for as long as possible, consider the following maintenance tips.

Location, Location, Location: While rattan is pretty tough, it’s not a fan of extreme conditions. Position your rattan furniture in a shaded area to protect it from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and brittleness. And if the British weather decides to go full monsoon, it’s best to move your rattan furniture indoors or cover it with a waterproof Shield Cover.

Rattan Garden Furniture Shield Cover


Regular TLC: Give your furniture a gentle clean every few weeks to keep it looking fresh. A quick dusting and occasional wipe-down will prevent dirt from building up and becoming a bigger problem.

Cleaning Rattan Furniture


Watch for Wear and Tear: Keep an eye out for any signs of damage, such as loose weaves or fraying. Address these issues promptly to prevent them from getting worse. For minor repairs, a dab of clear nail polish can help stop fraying in its tracks.

Worn out Rattan Furniture


Cushion Care: Don’t forget about the cushions! Remove and wash the covers according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Give the cushions a good fluffing every now and then to maintain their shape and comfort.

Rattan cushions

Don't Drag Your Rattan: Rattan's lightweight sturdiness makes it a breeze to rearrange your patio design. But hold on!  Just because it's easy to move doesn't mean you should treat it rough.  The woven material can still be damaged if you're not careful. Here's the golden rule: always lift the furniture by its frame. Dragging or pulling on the rattan itself can cause tears and breakage. So next time you want to rearrange your outdoor oasis, remember to lift it with care, and your furniture will thank you for it!

The Final Touch

With these tips in hand, your rattan garden furniture will not only look amazing but also last for years to come. Remember, a little care goes a long way. So, the next time you’re basking in the sun with a Pimms in hand, give yourself a pat on the back for being a rattan-savvy superstar. Happy lounging!