Outdoor Furniture Guide: Wicker

Wicker Characteristics:

• Distinctive look
• Strong
• Lightweight
• Comfortable
• Variety of styles and colors
• Available in a wide range of prices
• All-weather varieties can be left outdoors

Wicker Seating Varieties:

Rattan is a vine that is native to Southeast Asia. It is sturdy and solid, and has been used to make furniture in America since the mid-1800s.

Although rattan is extremely durable, it can be damaged by direct exposure to sunlight and moisture unless treated. Most natural rattan pieces are used indoors or, if treated, they may be placed on a screened or covered porch. Quality wicker furniture will have a tight, uniform weave with no splinters that may catch clothing or become unraveled.

All-Weather synthetic materials like resin can be woven to offer the classic look of natural rattan with more strength and resistance to rot, so that they rival wood or metal for durability. With frames of either core rattan or aluminum, all-weather wicker furniture can be left outdoors year-round. Resin is UV-resistant so it will not fade or dry out. To keep it clean, just spray off with water and use a mild detergent periodically.