Can You Leave Wicker Furniture Outside?

Wicker furniture looks great. It adds charm. It feels cozy. But can it stay outside? This article will explain.

It will give details. It will help you decide. You must know what works. You must know what doesn’t. Your furniture’s lifespan matters.

So let’s learn everything. Resistance to improper care makes a big difference. Some materials handle weather well. Some do not. Understanding wicker leads to better maintenance.

What Is Wicker Furniture?

Wicker is a weaving style. It uses natural or synthetic fibers. It creates durable pieces. Common materials include rattan bamboo reed and resin. It is lightweight. It is stylish. But is it outdoor-friendly? Let’s find out.

Natural wicker comes from plants. It looks elegant. It feels organic. Synthetic wicker is man-made. It mimics natural fibers. It is often more durable. The product was originally designed for indoor use but some types can survive outdoors.

Can You Leave Wicker Furniture Outside?

Natural wicker should stay indoors. It can’t handle rain. It can’t handle sun. It will crack. It will fade. It will weaken. Synthetic wicker fares better. It resists moisture. It resists UV rays. But even then protection helps.

In general furniture makers design some wicker for outdoor use. Always check labels. Always know the material. Leaving the wrong type outside will damage it. The outdoor exposure of unsuitable wicker leads to quick deterioration.

Why Is Natural Wicker Bad for Outdoors?

Natural fibers absorb water. They swell. They warp. They mold. Sunlight dries them out. They become brittle. Wind can break them. Temperature changes cause cracks.

The damage accumulates fast. One rainstorm can ruin it. Long-term sun exposure fades colors. The structure weakens over time. Intake of moisture results in irreversible harm. It may look fine at first but decay happens inside.

Can Synthetic Wicker Stay Outside?

Yes but with care. Resin wicker resists water. It won’t rot. It won’t fade quickly. UV-protected synthetic wicker lasts longer. Still, extreme weather harms it.

Harsh sun can still weaken it over years. Heavy snow can strain the weave. Strong winds can topple it. The consumption of outdoor elements still wears it down. Covering or storing it prolongs life.

How to Protect Outdoor Wicker Furniture?

Use covers. Waterproof covers shield from rain. UV-resistant covers block sun damage. Store it in winter. Garages or sheds work best.

Clean it often. Dust and dirt weaken fibers. Use mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals. Dry it completely before covering. The selection of proper care methods ensures longevity.

Place it wisely. Keep it under shade. Patios or pergolas help. Avoid direct sunlight. Avoid open areas in storms. Established good practices protect wicker from unnecessary harm.

What If Wicker Gets Wet?

Dry it fast. Use a towel. Let it air dry. Do not leave it damp. Mold grows quickly. Sun helps but too much sun cracks natural wicker.

For synthetic wicker water is less risky. Still, standing water damages any furniture. Wipe it down. Elevate it off wet ground. Quick action prevents long-term issues.

Are There Weatherproof Wicker Alternatives?

Yes. All-weather wicker exists. It is synthetic. It is built for outdoors. It lasts longer. It resists fading. It handles rain well.

Metal or aluminum frames add strength. Tight weaves prevent water seepage. The outdoor-proof versions cost more but survive seasons better. Investing in quality pays off.

How Long Does Outdoor Wicker Last?

Natural wicker outdoors lasts months maybe a year. Synthetic wicker lasts 3-5 years. High-end all-weather wicker lasts 5-10 years.

Maintenance extends life. Covering it adds years. Storing it in winter prevents wear. The lifespan depends on care. Cheap wicker breaks faster.

Can You Repair Damaged Wicker?

Sometimes. Loose strands can be re-woven. Broken frames may need replacement. Sanding and sealing help natural wicker.

Synthetic wicker is harder to fix. Cracks may mean buying new. Prevention is better than repair. Once damaged wicker rarely looks the same.

What’s Better Than Wicker for Outdoors?

Metal furniture lasts. It won’t fade. It won’t crack. Teak wood resists rot. Plastic is cheap and durable.

Wicker offers style but not always strength. If durability matters more choose other materials. If aesthetics matter more maintain wicker well.

Final Thoughts

Natural wicker belongs indoors. Synthetic wicker can go outside with care. Weatherproof wicker is the safest bet.

Leaving wicker outside risks damage. Protection extends its life. Covers storage and cleaning help. Choose the right material for your needs.

Proper care keeps wicker looking good. Neglect speeds up decay. Make smart choices for long-lasting furniture.

FAQs

1. Can you leave resin wicker outside all year?

Yes but cover it. Store it in extreme cold. Resin handles weather but winter storage helps.

2. Does rain ruin all wicker furniture?

Natural wicker yes. Synthetic wicker resists rain but still needs drying.

3. How do you clean outdoor wicker?

Use mild soap and water. Scrub gently. Rinse well. Dry completely.

4. Can sun bleach wicker furniture?

Yes. UV rays fade colors. Use UV-resistant covers or keep it shaded.

5. Is outdoor wicker expensive?

High-quality all-weather wicker costs more but lasts longer. Cheap wicker breaks fast.