Did you know that synthetic rattan garden furniture can last up to 20 years outdoors, even when left out all winter?
We have seen firsthand how rattan garden furniture has become increasingly popular among homeowners seeking both style and durability for their outdoor spaces. However, to maintain that fresh appearance and ensure longevity, regular cleaning is absolutely vital. In fact, experts recommend cleaning your rattan furniture at least three times per year before garden season begins, mid summer, and before winter storage.
Whether you are wondering how to clean rattan furniture properly or asking “can rattan furniture get wet?”, we have got you covered. Fortunately, all rattan is weather resistant and relatively easy to clean and maintain. This is particularly true for synthetic varieties, which exhibit impressive resilience against UV light.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about maintaining your rattan garden furniture, from basic cleaning techniques to seasonal protection strategies. We will also share expert tips for restoring and refreshing your corner rattan garden furniture and other pieces to keep them looking splendid for years to come.
​Know Your Rattan: Natural vs Synthetic
Understanding the difference between natural and synthetic rattan is fundamental to proper furniture care. Both materials have unique properties that affect their durability, maintenance requirements, and suitability for different environments.
​What is natural rattan?
Natural rattan comes from climbing palm species that grow primarily in the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Africa, and Australia. This versatile material is harvested from the stems of the rattan palm, which provides both strong cores for furniture frames and flexible outer skin for weaving. The remarkable strength to weight ratio of natural rattan makes it an excellent choice for furniture, as it combines durability with lightness.
Unlike bamboo, which is hollow, rattan is solid throughout, giving it exceptional strength despite its lightweight nature. I’ve found that natural rattan furniture has a distinctive, organic aesthetic that brings warmth and texture to any space.
​What is synthetic rattan?
Synthetic rattan (often called PE rattan or polyrattan) is an engineered material designed to mimic the appearance of natural rattan while offering greater resistance to outdoor elements. It’s typically manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other resin materials that are molded and extruded into fibres resembling natural rattan.
Modern synthetic rattan garden furniture undergoes sophisticated manufacturing processes that incorporate UV stabilizers, pigments, and antioxidants to enhance durability. The result is a product that looks strikingly similar to natural rattan but withstands harsh weather conditions far better.
​Can rattan furniture get wet?
This is one of the most crucial distinctions between the two materials. Natural rattan is not waterproof and should never be left outdoors unprotected during rainy weather. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause natural rattan to rot, swell, and develop mould and mildew.
On the other hand, synthetic rattan offers significant water resistance, although it’s not completely waterproof. While synthetic rattan can handle occasional rain showers without immediate damage, I still recommend using furniture covers during extended periods of wet weather to maximise lifespan.
​Which type is better for outdoor use?
For British gardens with our unpredictable climate, synthetic rattan is undoubtedly superior for outdoor use. Here’s why:
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Synthetic rattan resists UV damage, preventing fading and brittleness even after years in the sun
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It won’t rot or develop mould when exposed to moisture
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Quality synthetic rattan can withstand temperature fluctuations without warping or cracking
Natural rattan, despite its beauty and eco-credentials, simply isn’t designed to withstand the elements. Even with protective treatments, it will deteriorate quickly if left outside during changing weather conditions.
For outdoor spaces, especially if you’re considering a rattan firepit set or premium oval dining set, synthetic options offer better long-term value, with some quality sets lasting 10-20 years with proper care.
​Cleaning Rattan Furniture the Right Way
Regular maintenance keeps rattan garden furniture looking fresh and extends its lifespan. Most experts recommend cleaning your rattan pieces at least twice a year, though weekly attention prevents excessive dirt buildup.
​Weekly dusting and vacuuming
Dust accumulation is the primary enemy of rattan furniture. Initially, I recommend using a soft brush or microfiber duster to remove loose particles from the surface. Subsequently, a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment works wonders for extracting debris from those tricky woven sections. This simple weekly routine prevents soil from becoming embedded in the weave, consequently making deeper cleaning sessions much easier.
For natural rattan specifically, regular dusting is even more crucial since excessive dirt can accelerate deterioration of the fibres.
​How to clean rattan furniture with soapy water
When your rattan garden furniture needs more thorough attention, follow these steps:
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Remove any cushions or fabric items
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Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap
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Collect only the bubbles with a soft cloth (not the water itself)
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Gently apply the soapy foam to the rattan surface
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Rinse with a damp cloth or gentle hose spray
Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach as they can cause cracking and damage the material. Furthermore, never use a pressure washer on rattan as the force can split the fibres.
​Using a toothbrush for tight spots
A soft-bristled toothbrush is perfect for cleaning those hard-to-reach areas between the weaves. Gently work the toothbrush into crevices where dirt accumulates, particularly in corners and joints of your corner rattan garden furniture.
Apply the same soapy water solution to the toothbrush for stubborn grime. This technique is effective for both natural and synthetic rattan, removing built-up dirt that regular cleaning might miss.
​Drying tips to avoid mould
Proper drying is essential for preventing mould growth, namely for natural rattan. After cleaning your grey rattan garden furniture, place it outside in sunlight or a well-ventilated area to dry thoroughly.
For faster drying, wipe down excess moisture with a clean, dry towel first. Never use direct heat sources like heaters to speed up drying as this can cause the rattan to crack or warp.
Complete drying is particularly important before using deluxe furniture covers to protect your rattan firepit set, since trapping moisture under covers can create ideal conditions for mould growth.
​Deep Cleaning and Stain Removal
Even with regular cleaning, stubborn stains and mildew can develop on your rattan garden furniture. These issues require deeper cleaning techniques to ensure your pieces remain in top condition throughout the changing seasons.
​How to remove mildew with vinegar
Mildew and dark stains can quickly ruin the appearance of rattan furniture, especially in humid environments. For natural mildew removal:
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Mix one part white vinegar with four parts water to create a gentle yet effective solution
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Dampen a soft cloth with the mixture and gently blot the affected areas
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Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to work the solution into crevices where mildew grows
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Wipe away residue with a clean damp cloth
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Air-dry the furniture in a well-ventilated space, preferably outdoors but away from direct sunlight
White vinegar works effectively because it’s a natural antifungal agent that kills mildew without the harsh effects of bleach, which can weaken rattan fibres over time.
​Using baking soda or lemon for tough stains
For persistent stains that vinegar alone won’t tackle:
Create a baking soda paste by mixing baking soda with a few drops of water. Apply to the stain, let sit for 10 minutes, then gently scrub and wipe clean. Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness removes stains without scratching the surface.
Alternatively, lemon juice can be highly effective. Its natural acidity lifts stains and freshens up rattan. For stubborn marks, mix lemon juice with salt and use a sponge to scrub at mould or moss build-up.
​When to use a rattan furniture cleaner
Occasionally, you may need a specialist rattan furniture cleaner, primarily:
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When natural methods haven’t been effective
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For synthetic rattan that needs restoration
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As part of seasonal maintenance for premium sets like rattan garden furniture premium oval dining sets
Commercial cleaners are designed specifically for rattan and can be particularly useful for corner rattan garden furniture with complex weaves where dirt accumulates.
​How to restore plastic rattan furniture safely
Synthetic or plastic rattan can become faded or discoloured over time, nonetheless restoration is possible:
First, clean any debris or cobwebs from the furniture’s surface using a damp cloth. Subsequently, consider using WD-40® Specialist Silicone Lubricant to bring colour and shine back to faded plastic rattan furniture.
For plastic rattan with stubborn discolouration, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Apply directly to the furniture, let sit for a few minutes, then wash down with warm soapy water.
Remember to always use deluxe furniture covers after deep cleaning to protect your investment from future staining and weathering.
​Protecting Rattan Through the Seasons
Proper protection of your rattan garden furniture can extend its lifespan significantly, with quality pieces lasting up to 20 years with appropriate care. The key is understanding how to shield your investment from seasonal challenges.
​Using furniture covers and cushion storage
High-quality furniture covers are essential for protecting rattan from harsh weather. The best covers are made of polyester with PVC backing and water-taped seams. These covers should be both waterproof and breathable to prevent mould formation.
When storing cushions, ensure they’re completely dry first to prevent mildew growth. Store them in a dry, airy space—ideally on a garage shelf or in a loft rather than a damp shed. For additional protection, consider these options:
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Waterproof cushion storage bags with handles for easy transportation
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Garden storage benches that provide both seating and storage space
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Breathable containers that allow air circulation to prevent moisture buildup
Adding scented dryer sheets to cushion storage can keep them smelling fresh until next use.
​Avoiding direct sun and rotating furniture
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can bleach and weaken rattan materials. According to experts, positioning furniture away from direct sunlight or using a parasol provides essential protection. For synthetic rattan with glass tops, parasols are particularly important to prevent magnified heat damage.
Similarly to rotating car tyres, I recommend repositioning your rattan garden furniture pieces regularly to ensure even wear, primarily if certain areas of your garden receive more sun or weather exposure.
​Tips for grey rattan garden furniture care
Grey rattan garden furniture requires special attention to maintain its distinctive colour. Applying a UV-protective spray designed for synthetic materials helps preserve the colour integrity against fading. For protection against seasonal changes, consider investing in deluxe round furniture covers specifically sized for your furniture set.
​Seasonal checklist: spring to winter
Seasonal maintenance keeps your rattan firepit set looking pristine year-round:
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Spring: Perform deep cleaning to remove winter grime; inspect for damage
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Summer: Regularly clean to remove pollen and dust; use UV protection
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Autumn: Clean and dry thoroughly before covering for winter
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Winter: Store indoors if possible or use high-quality waterproof covers
For winter storage, clean your furniture with soapy water, dry it completely, then store in a warm, dry place. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, elevate furniture off the ground to prevent moisture damage.
​Fixing and Refreshing Your Furniture
Eventually, even the best-maintained rattan garden furniture will need repairs or refreshing. Addressing issues promptly can dramatically extend your furniture’s lifespan and save money in the long run.
​How to fix loose or broken strands
For loose strands, simply apply wood glue or clear epoxy to reattach them firmly in place. Broken synthetic rattan strands can be repaired using epoxy resin; apply a small amount over the break, sculpt it to match the surrounding weave, then allow 48 hours to harden. For natural rattan repairs, soak replacement pieces in warm water for 30 minutes first to increase flexibility.
​Painting and refinishing tips
Before painting, repair any damage and clean thoroughly. Choose spray paint for the most even finish across intricate weaves. Apply primer first, followed by multiple light coats rather than one heavy layer. For natural rattan, consider applying boiled linseed oil annually to prevent drying and cracking.
​When to replace vs repair
Replace furniture when the frame is compromised or when repairs become frequent. High-quality PE rattan can last 5-10 years with proper care. Repair is worthwhile for minor damage like loose strands or small breaks, but extensive structural issues often indicate it’s time for a new dining set.
​Extending the life of corner rattan garden furniture
Rotate your corner rattan garden furniture regularly to ensure even wear. Always lift rather than drag furniture to prevent splitting the fibres. Use cushions to distribute weight more evenly and prevent sagging over time. For outdoor sets, consider a deluxe furniture cover to protect against weather damage.
​Conclusion
Taking proper care of your rattan garden furniture undoubtedly extends its lifespan and maintains its aesthetic appeal. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored essential maintenance techniques, from basic cleaning to seasonal protection strategies. Regular dusting, proper washing, and thorough drying certainly make a significant difference in preserving both natural and synthetic varieties.
Synthetic rattan stands out as the superior choice for British gardens due to its impressive weather resistance. Your premium oval dining set can withstand the elements for up to two decades when maintained correctly. Nevertheless, even the most durable rattan garden furniture benefits from seasonal care routines.
Remember the cleaning essentials we’ve discussed: gentle soap solutions, soft brushes for tight spaces, and natural remedies like vinegar and baking soda for stubborn stains. Additionally, protective measures such as quality deluxe furniture covers and proper cushion storage significantly reduce weather damage.
For those with corner rattan garden furniture or a rattan firepit set, rotation and elevation become particularly important to ensure even wear and prevent moisture damage. Minor repairs addressed promptly can transform your aging furniture and extend its useful life considerably.
The effort invested in maintenance ultimately saves money while ensuring your outdoor space remains stylish and inviting year after year. Simple weekly attention, combined with seasonal deep cleaning, creates the perfect formula for rattan furniture that continues to impress guests and provide comfort through changing seasons.
Our garden furniture tells a story of relaxation and enjoyment. Therefore, we should give it the care it deserves. Follow these maintenance guidelines, and your rattan pieces will reward you with many years of reliable service and timeless beauty.
