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Writer's pictureOmbak Lifestyle

Cleaning and Maintaining Rattan/ Wicker Furniture

You have made your purchase of a beautiful Ombak rattan piece. But, now that you have it, it's important to know how to care for them to maintain their beauty and durability.


As with any natural material, rattan/ wicker has its own specialities and properties that give it its unique traits and therefore requires your attention.


Here’s a quick guide on how to go about it -


1. Frequency of Cleaning Rattan/ Wicker Furniture


There's no universal rule for how often you should clean wicker furniture. However, it's generally recommended to perform a cleaning at least twice a year. Regular maintenance and immediate attention to spills and stains are crucial for maintaining its appearance and longevity.





2. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Rattan/ Wicker Furniture


To clean rattan/ wicker furniture, gather the following items: a soft bristle brush, a smaller detail brush or old toothbrush, 2-3 microfiber cloths, gentle dish soap, a bucket, warm water, and optionally, a hair dryer.


Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:


  1. Clear the Furniture: Remove any items like books, plants, or cushions that may obstruct cleaning. Protect these items from moisture during cleaning.

  2. Dusting: Begin by dusting the rattan/ wicker with a large, dry brush followed by a microfiber cloth. Use a smaller brush for crevices if necessary.

  3. Cleaning with Damp Cloth: Mix a few drops of dish soap into warm water in a bucket. Dampen a microfiber cloth in this solution (avoiding oversaturation) and gently scrub the rattan/ wicker surface. Use the detail brush for tight spots.

  4. Drying: After cleaning, ensure the wicker is thoroughly dried to prevent damage. Use a dry microfiber cloth and optionally a hair dryer or sunlight (briefly) to accelerate drying, avoiding prolonged exposure which can harm natural fibers.





3. Tips for Maintaining Wicker Furniture


  • Regularly vacuum or dust rattan/ wicker using a brush attachment to remove dust and pollen.

  • Keep rattan/ wicker dry to prevent mildew and decay, particularly in natural wicker.

  • Protect furniture from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight to maintain its integrity and color.


4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):


4.1 How do you restore the color of rattan furniture?


Restoring faded rattan involves painting it with a color of your choice, ensuring thorough coverage, especially in intricate areas.


4.2 How do you revive an old rattan/ wicker?


Applying olive oil with a soft cloth can rejuvenate rattan furniture, providing protection and shine, though it should be done sparingly and allowed to dry completely.


By following these guidelines for cleaning and maintaining old wicker furniture, you can ensure these timeless pieces retain their charm and durability for years to come. Whether using traditional methods or innovative approaches like olive oil treatment, regular care is essential for preserving their beauty.


5. Ombak Pieces

Here are some of Ombak’s best selling Rattan pieces, that can create a wonderful accent to any part of your home:






6. Ombak Materials

Feeling creative, and want to try making some rattan pieces yourself? Well, we've got you covered. We sell Rattan materials ranging across different webbing patterns - check them out here.



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