Do you own wicker garden furniture but not quote sure how to clean it? Well, it is not rocket science. Actually, it pretty much common sense. If you keep your wicker patio furniture outside all of the time it probably needs a bit more maintenance. The sun, wind, snow and rain can do a number on it. Here are a few tips to cleaning:
Wash – Neglecting your furniture will shorten the lifespan. Wash your wicker furniture with a wet cloth and mild detergent. Get an attachment for your garden hose that allows you to spray a fine mist. Wet down your furniture and scrub off any dirt or grime. Use the fine mist to remove any left over detergent. Let your wicker dry out in the direct sunlight.
Vacuum – Vacuuming your wicker garden furniture regularly is preventative maintenance. It will keep your furniture looking good. Use a brush attachment if possible to dig in to the wicker fibers. This will help get out debris and dirt and suck it up. Be careful not to use a vacuum that is too powerful as this might hard your furniture.
Killing Mold – I have seen mold grow on wicker furniture. There is a strong chance that if you keep your furniture outdoors all of the time that mold will eventually find it. If you live in a humid climate there is a strong chance that will happen. Use warm water and bleach to clean your wicker. This works well on most types of wicker including bamboo, rattan or willow, reed and plastic. Apply the solution of bleach and water and scrub the mold off. When finished spray a fine mist of water to clean it off. Again, let it sit in direct sunlight to dry it off.
These simple but effective cleaning tips will help add years to the life of your wicker garden furniture. Regular vacuuming and cleaning will keep it looking great and comfortable.
Slade Tanner blogs about outdoor wicker Click here to get your own unique version of this article with free reprint rights.