Cleaning rattan furniture, whether natural or synthetic, requires regular care. For natural rattan, use a soft brush and mild soap solution, avoiding excess moisture. Synthetic rattan can be cleaned with a damp cloth and gentle detergent.
This guide covers how to clean and maintain both natural and synthetic rattan furniture, indoors and outdoors. It includes weekly, monthly, and yearly cleaning routines, as well as common mistakes to avoid. Follow these steps to keep your rattan pieces in top condition and looking beautiful for years to come.
Why Proper Rattan Cleaning Matters
Regular cleaning offers multiple benefits for rattan furniture. It extends the material's lifespan by preventing fibre breakdown and structural damage. Proper maintenance preserves the natural colour and texture while preventing mould and mildew growth.
Neglecting rattan leads to serious problems:
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Accumulated dirt weakens fibres
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Moisture causes warping and mould
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Harsh chemicals create discolouration
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Improper techniques result in cracks or loose weaving.
Clean rattan furniture maintains both its beauty and structural integrity, making regular care worthwhile.
Keep Your Rattan Furniture Looking Brand New is important.
Natural and Synthetic Rattan: Key Differences Affecting Cleaning
Natural rattan is delicate, requiring gentle cleaning methods and protection from moisture (as it can easily warp, rot, or develop mold), while synthetic rattan is more durable and weather-resistant, allowing for thorough cleaning with water and mild detergent, and can be easily hosed down.
Understanding these 6 differences helps you choose the right approach:
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Feature
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Natural Rattan
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Synthetic Rattan
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1. Material Source
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Made from palm vines, harvested from tropical forests
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Made from polyethylene or PVC resin, the manufactured material
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2. Texture and Feel
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Organic, slightly rough, warm to the touch
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Smooth, consistent, cooler surface
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3. Maintenance Requirements
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Requires conditioning with oils, gentle handling
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Low maintenance, easy to clean
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4. Susceptibility to Moisture
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Highly sensitive, can warp or crack when wet
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Water-resistant, handles moisture well
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5. Susceptibility to Sunlight
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Fades and becomes brittle with prolonged UV exposure
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UV-resistant, maintains colour longer
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6. Best Use
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Indoor spaces with controlled humidity
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Indoor and outdoor, all weather conditions
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Essential Tools and Materials
Here are 8 proper tools that make rattan cleaning safe and effective. Ensure thorough, damage-free care by keeping these eight essential items ready before starting:
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1. Soft Brush
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2. Microfiber Cloths
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3. Vacuum (with Upholstery Attachment)
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4. Mild Soap & Warm Water
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5. Toothbrush
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6. Garden Hose
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7. Boiled Linseed Oil
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8. Commercial Rattan Cleaners
Using the right tools and materials plays a big role.
Weekly Cleaning Routine
Keeping your rattan furniture fresh starts with a 2-simple weekly routine that prevents dust and debris from building up, ensuring your pieces stay beautiful and last longer:
1. Dusting for Rattan Surfaces
Regular dusting prevents dirt from settling deep into rattan weaves. Use a soft-bristled brush or feather duster to sweep across all surfaces gently. For more thorough results, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment, which pulls dust from crevices without damaging fibres.
Focus particularly on corners, joints, and tightly woven areas where dust accumulates quickly. Work in the direction of the weave to avoid catching or pulling strands. Weekly dusting takes just minutes but significantly reduces the need for intensive cleaning later.
2. Spot Cleaning for Minor Stains
Address spills and marks immediately to prevent permanent staining. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Dip a clean cloth into the solution, wring it thoroughly until barely damp, then blot the stained area gently; never rub, as this pushes stains deeper into fibres.
For stubborn spots, use a soft toothbrush with light circular motions. After treating the stain, wipe the area with a cloth dampened in clean water to remove soap residue. Pat dry immediately with a clean, absorbent towel to prevent moisture damage.
Light vacuuming or dusting once a week helps prevent dirt buildup.
Monthly Deep Cleaning
A monthly deep clean is vital for removing built-up grime and oils, which keeps rattan furniture fresh and prevents long-term damage.
By following 3 key gentle methods, you can effectively protect the fibres and maintain the furniture's pristine appearance:
1. Preparing a Cleaning Solution
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Fill a bucket with warm (not hot) water to avoid damaging natural rattan.
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Add a few drops of mild dish soap and stir gently.
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Keep the solution weak for natural rattan to preserve its oils.
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Always test the solution on a hidden area first and wait 10 minutes for any adverse reactions.
2. Wiping and Scrubbing Techniques
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Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution, wring it out well (damp, not dripping).
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Wipe surfaces gently, following the weave pattern.
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For crevices, use a soft toothbrush with light pressure.
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Never soak rattan or let water pool in joints.
3. Drying Best Practices
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Wipe all surfaces with a dry microfiber cloth after cleaning.
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Press into crevices and joints to remove excess moisture.
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Place furniture in a shaded, well-ventilated area to air dry.
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Avoid direct sunlight and allow at least 24 hours for full drying.
Rattan furniture adds a touch of natural elegance and charm to any room.
Yearly Maintenance and Restoration
Annual maintenance is crucial for keeping rattan furniture strong and beautiful. By focusing on 3 essential maintenance tasks, you can easily restore its original look and significantly extend its lifespan:
1. Inspecting for Damage and Wear
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Check for loose strands, gaps, fraying, cracks, mould, mildew, and fading.
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Test joint stability by gently applying pressure.
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Document any issues for systematic restoration.
Read more: How To Repair Rattan Furniture when it being damaged?
2. Removing Mould and Mildew
For natural rattan:
For synthetic rattan:
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Use a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) for stubborn mould.
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Apply only to affected spots, avoid oversaturation.
Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
3. Conditioning Rattan (Natural) and Polishing (Synthetic)
For natural rattan:
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Apply boiled linseed oil with a soft cloth, following the weave.
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Focus on dry or high-contact areas.
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Let oil penetrate for 15 minutes, then buff off excess.
For synthetic rattan:
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Use a commercial furniture polish for plastic or resin.
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Apply as directed, then buff with a microfiber cloth.
Giving your rattan furniture a deep clean once a year is a great way.
Cleaning Indoor vs. Outdoor Rattan
Indoor rattan:
Outdoor rattan:
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More frequent deep cleaning, mould prevention, and sun protection.
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Synthetic rattan can be rinsed with a hose; natural rattan needs weatherproof covers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When caring for rattan furniture, avoiding these 5 common mistakes is key to longevity:
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1. Harsh chemicals damage rattan irreparably: Avoid bleach, ammonia, and abrasive cleaners, which strip natural oils, discolour fibres, and weaken the natural fibers' structure. These substances cause brittleness and cracking over time.
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2. Never soak rattan furniture in water: Excess moisture leads to mould growth, warping, and structural damage that compromises the weave. Keep cleaning cloths damp, not wet, and dry thoroughly afterwards.
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3. Direct sunlight causes significant harm: Prolonged UV exposure makes natural rattan brittle, fades colour, and creates cracks. Position furniture away from windows or use curtains to filter light.
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4. Abrasive tools destroy rattan's surface: Rough brushes, scouring pads, and pressure washers fray fibres, damage weave patterns, and remove protective finishes. Use only soft-bristled brushes and gentle cloths.
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5. Incomplete drying invites problems: Moisture trapped in crevices or joints promotes mould and mildew growth. Always air dry completely in well-ventilated spaces before using or storing furniture.
Remove Mold from Rattan Furniture.
Tips for Long-Lasting Cleanliness
Five practical preventive measures keep rattan looking beautiful for years:
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1. Dusting: Dust regularly with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Weekly dusting prevents stubborn dirt buildup, avoiding the need for intensive cleaning.
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2. Routine Cleaning: Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap. This gentle method removes fresh spills and surface grime without harming fibers or needing chemicals.
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3. Conditioning: Occasionally condition natural rattan using plant-based oils (like linseed oil). This maintains flexibility, prevents cracking, and restores the material's natural lustre.
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4. Spill Protection: Protect surfaces using coasters, placemats, and covers. Prevention is simpler than stain removal and keeps the rattan looking good easily.
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5. Storage: Store furniture properly during harsh weather or non-use. Keep pieces in dry, ventilated areas away from extremes to avoid bending or moisture damage.
Tips to Maintain Your Rattan Furniture's Shine Longer.
Troubleshooting and Advanced Care
For stubborn stains or minor damage, follow these five tips:
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1. Stain Removal: Gently clean tough stains using a mild cleaning solution or specialized rattan cleaner applied with a soft cloth. For stubborn marks, allow the cleaner a slightly longer dwell time before wiping.
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2. Minor Repairs: Use wood glue or a rattan repair kit to fix minor splits or loose fibers. Apply glue sparingly, press the fibers back, and secure with tape until fully dry to prevent unravelling.
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3. Natural Rattan Conditioning: If natural rattan is drying or cracking, generously apply boiled linseed oil to the affected areas. Allow it to penetrate deeply, then buff away any excess.
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4. Synthetic Rattan Restoration: If synthetic rattan shows discolouration or UV damage, repaint or reseal it using paints designed for plastic or resin. Apply thin, even coats to restore color and protection.
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5. Moisture Management: Immediately address moisture to prevent mold and warping. Move the furniture to a dry area, treat any visible mold, and ensure it is completely dry before using it again.
FAQs about Cleaning and Maintaining Rattan Furniture
Can I use bleach to clean rattan furniture?
No, you should avoid using regular bleach to clean rattan furniture, as it damages the fibres and strips natural oils. Only use oxygen bleach sparingly for stubborn stains on synthetic rattan, and always rinse the area thoroughly.
What is boiled linseed oil, and why is it used for rattan?
Boiled linseed oil is a natural finish that conditions rattan, restoring shine and flexibility. It helps prevent drying and cracking, especially in natural rattan furniture exposed to dry climates.
How often should rattan furniture be deep-cleaned?
Deep clean rattan furniture at least once yearly, or more often if exposed to heavy dirt, spills, or outdoor elements to maintain its appearance and structural integrity.
Can rattan furniture be cleaned in winter or rainy seasons?
Yes, but confirm rattan dries thoroughly after cleaning to prevent mould and mildew. Avoid cleaning in damp or cold conditions if possible, as drying takes longer.
Read more: How to Clean Rattan Pendant Light?
How do I restore old, faded rattan furniture?
Clean gently, repair any damage, and apply boiled linseed oil to restore colour and flexibility. For severe fading or structural issues, consider professional refinishing services.
Conclusion
This guide provides full instructions for cleaning and maintaining rattan furniture, from dusting to annual restoration. Following these methods protects your investment and prevents damage. Regular care extends the lifespan of rattan, preserving its natural elegance and structural integrity, ensuring your pieces look beautiful for years.
At IndochinaLight, we specialise in handcrafted rattan hanging lights. Since 2019, our artisans in Phu Vinh have created eco-friendly lighting using sustainable materials from Northwest Vietnam. Each piece combines centuries-old techniques with contemporary design, offering both beauty and function for your modern home.
IndochinaLight - IndochinaHomeDecor LLC
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Address: 30 N Gould St Ste. N, Sheridan, WY 82801
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Phone: (+1) 307 249 0594
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Email: service@indochinalight.com
