Furniture made from wicker, such as those found at Wicker Paradise, can look pristine and last a lifetime with the proper care. Negligence, however, will destroy your wicker beyond repair. Thankfully, the following tips will help ensure your wicker looks great for years to come.
Regularly Remove Surface Dust
No matter how hard you try, fuzz, dust, animal hair and other surface dirt will find its way on your wicker. A soft bristled brush attached to a vacuum works well to take care of surface dust and debris. To get into those crevices, use a pair of tweezers to or a small paintbrush to remove the debris from hard-to-reach areas.
Clean Spills as Soon as Possible
Furniture made from reed wicker can be easily cleaned by spraying any spills off with a water hose. Other types of wicker, however, shouldn’t be immersed or sprayed with water. Instead, wipe spills with a cloth dampened with water and light detergent.
Keep the Humidity in Check
The humidity inside your home greatly affects indoor furniture such as wicker. If the humidity level is too low, the wicker will dry out, which causes it to become brittle. If the humidity level is too high, mold and mildew can begin to form on the wicker furniture. This is why you should make sure the humidity levels in your home are well maintained. This may mean seeking the help of a dehumidifier is the humidity levels are too high.
Clean Mold or Mildew Immediately
If you notice mold or mildew growing on your wicker, clean it immediately by wiping the fungal growth a cloth dampened with a diluted bleach solution. Make sure to rinse the bleach solution off the wicker with a second cloth dampened with water and then wipe dry with a soft towel. Once the fungal growth is removed, you can take the necessary action to prevent it from returning, such as reducing humidity in your home or moving the wicker to an area where humidity isn’t so high.
Keep Antique Wicker out of the Elements
Many consumers make the mistake of placing their antique wicker outside. This is a big no-no since harsh elements – such as rain, sun, wind and snow – can be extremely damaging to the furniture. The sun can deteriorate the fibers in wicker, making them become dry and brittle, while excess moisture can result in the wood frames warping.
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