How to Clean Rattan Furniture | Step-by-step Guide

How to clean rattan furniture is a question for many homeowners. Rattan furniture has become popular in every home, helping your living space become more stylish and aesthetic.

Rattan often requires regular and gentle cleaning to ensure your furniture will last for years to come. In this article, Rowabi Interiors has given you some guidelines to keep rattan furniture clean.

Keeping your rattan furniture fresh and new: Our best practices

Before diving into the cleaning methods for rattan furniture, let's first explore the practices you need to know to help it maintain a brand-new appearance. After all, isn't prevention better than cure?

Rattan furniture needs regular care to keep it looking beautiful and new. Source: Sunset Magazine

• Regular dusting: Regular dusting is a fundamental practice for maintaining the pristine appearance of your rattan furniture. This helps prevent dust from accumulating over time, which can lead to unsightly dirt buildup on the furniture piece. Below, we'll provide more detailed instructions on how to do this effectively.
• Gentle cleaning: You should also consider gently cleaning the rattan furniture piece using a cloth dampened with water or a mild soap solution for routine maintenance. This helps the furniture piece maintain its natural shine and beauty. However, remember to wipe with a damp cloth rather than a wet one to avoid over-saturating the rattan with moisture.
• Removing stains: Removing stains from your rattan furniture is crucial for preserving its pristine appearance. It's essential to address stains promptly to ensure the furniture maintains its attractive exterior. Avoiding the use of bleach or strong chemicals is paramount, as they not only risk discoloring the rattan but also weaken its structure over time.
• Protecting from moisture: Rattan is particularly vulnerable to damage from moisture, so it's crucial to avoid placing it in damp or humid areas where mold and mildew can thrive. Using coasters or placemats under glasses and plates is a simple yet effective way to prevent water stains and spills.
• Seasonal maintenance: Performing a comprehensive inspection at least once a year allows you to identify any signs of damage, such as loose strands or cracks, that may have developed over time.

The magic items for cleaning rattan furniture

Like any other type of furniture, rattan requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best and prolong its life. In particular, apart from knowing how to clean rattan furniture, the material can also be important and make a difference in preserving the beauty of rattan furniture.

Rowabi's will introduce the materials needed to clean rattan furniture as well as how to use them effectively:

• Mild detergent: A mild and non-abrasive detergent is the most suitable for cleaning rattan furniture. As mentioned above, you should avoid using harsh chemicals because they can damage the rattan fibers. Instead, a gentle dish soap or a specially mixed cleaner created for rattan furniture will work best.
• Soft brush: A soft bristle brush is essential to have when removing dust and debris from the surface of rattan furniture. The brush must be gentle enough to ensure it does not damage the delicate fibers of the rattan, but still effectively sweeps away dirt.
• Soft cloth or sponge: In addition to a brush, a soft cloth or sponge is an ideal tool when cleaning rattan furniture. It allows gentle scrubbing without causing any abrasion to the rattan. You must make sure the cloth or sponge is clean and does not contain harsh chemicals that can harm the rattan.
• Water: Warm water is compulsory for cleaning the rattan after using soap. Avoid using hot water because it can make the rattan lose its shape or warp.
• Vacuum cleaner: A vacuum cleaner can be useful to remove dirt from the crevices and hard-to-reach areas of the furniture. This step should be done before using water or any cleaning solution.
• Furniture polish or oil: To restore the natural luster of rattan furniture and prevent it from drying out, consider using furniture polish or oil specifically designed for use on natural materials like rattan.
• Gloves: When working with cleaning solutions or varnish, wearing gloves can help protect your hands from irritation and chemical exposure.
• Lint Roller: For quick and easy removal of pet hair or lint from rattan furniture, a lint roller can be very effective, especially for woven or textured surfaces.

Some materials for cleaning rattan furniture, such as mild detergent, soft brush, water, and vacuum cleaner

How often to clean rattan furniture?

For beautiful rattan furniture, weekly dusting with an upholstery brush is key. To prevent dirt build-up and stains, give it a more thorough clean monthly with a damp cloth and mild soap.

For outdoor furniture, at least yearly cleaning is essential to remove dirt and check for mold, especially on neglected pieces.

The rattan furniture should be cleaned regularly to remove all dust and dirt

Instructions for weekly cleaning

To keep rattan furniture clean and in its best state, vacuuming or weekly dusting is essential. How to clean rattan wicker furniture weekly? Here are some instructions for weekly cleaning that you can refer to.

Remove dust

Start by dusting the surface of your rattan furniture with a disposable or microfiber duster. This will remove the loose dust and prevent excessive soil buildup. For detailed cleaning, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove dirt from corners and tight areas.

You can use a disposable duster or microfiber duster to remove dust weekly

Additionally, vacuum the furniture using an upholstered brush attachment, and use the crevice tool for hard-to-reach places. For extra precision, consider using compressed air to dislodge dirt from tight spots.

Clean away stains

When dealing with food stains, drink spills, or muddy footprints, it's important to clean them immediately to prevent them from setting in. For solid particles, gently lift them off the rattan with a dull knife or spoon. Then, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the area and allow it to air dry.

For tougher, dried stains, loosen them with a toothbrush. Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid to a damp microfiber cloth and wipe the stained area clean. Finally, wipe with a cloth dampened with clean water to remove soap residue and let the furniture dry naturally.

Instructions for monthly cleaning

Rattan furniture brings natural beauty and luxury to any space. To ensure longevity and maintain its appearance, regular monthly cleaning is essential. How to clean up rattan furniture monthly? Here are some instructions for cleaning your rattan furniture monthly.

Mix a cleaning solution

Prepare a cleaning solution with warm water and a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid or a specialized rattan cleaner. Stir gently to create suds. In a separate bucket, pour clean water for rinsing. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals to protect the rattan material.

Mix a cleaning solution of warm water and dishwashing liquid to clean rattan furniture

Wipe down furniture

Dip a soft microfiber cloth in the soapy water and wipe down the rattan furniture, starting from the top and working your way down. Focus on areas with visible stains or spills.

Use a toothbrush to clean dust from the weaving. Ensure the cloth is only slightly damp, as rattan should not be soaked.

You can take a soft microfiber cloth, dip it in soap suds and wipe down the furniture

Allow to dry

After cleaning, let the rattan furniture dry in a well-ventilated area. If the furniture is too wet, use a soft cloth to dry it. Avoid placing the furniture near heat sources or in direct sunlight, as excessive heat can cause the rattan to warp or crack.

Once washed, you have to allow rattan furniture to dry.

Instructions for yearly cleaning

Yearly cleaning and maintenance will keep your rattan furniture looking beautiful and extend its lifespan. Before starting the thorough yearly cleaning, follow the instructions on how to clean rattan furniture for weekly and monthly cleaning.

Inspect rattan for problems

Begin by checking your rattan furniture for any damage, such as breakage, loose fabric, or unraveled weave. For outdoor furniture, inspect for mold, particularly on the legs. Address any issues before starting the cleaning process.

Inspect rattan furniture to see some problems that may occur with this item

Remove mold and mildew

Rattan furniture exposed to moisture can develop mold and mildew. Create a cleaning solution with equal parts water and chlorine bleach. Wear protective gloves and use a damp sponge or soft cloth to wipe the affected areas.

Don’t forget to remove all mold and mildew on the rattan furniture

For stubborn stains, use a soft brush. Ensure the rattan dries completely before moving on to the next step, preferably by placing it in the sun. 

Condition the rattan

Conditioning helps maintain the rattan's natural beauty and prevents it from becoming brittle. Once the rattan is clean and dry, dip a soft cloth in boiled linseed oil and apply it, starting from the top.

Allow the oil to absorb for 15-20 minutes, then wipe off the excess with a clean cloth. Let the rattan dry completely for at least 48 hours.

How to clean rattan furniture? Step-by-step instructions

Throughout serving customers, Rowabi has recognized common issues people encounter when cleaning rattan furniture, including cleaning mold, distinguishing between natural rattan and synthetic rattan, or understanding the difference between indoor and outdoor variants.

Now, we're here to address those concerns for you.

How to clean mold off rattan furniture?

Because it's a natural material, rattan can develop mold when exposed to moisture for too long. Source: 194 Craft House

Inspect: Begin by thoroughly inspecting the rattan furniture to identify any areas affected by mold. Pay close attention to corners, crevices, and areas with poor ventilation.

Prepare a cleaning solution: Create a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of water and chlorine bleach in a bucket or spray bottle. This solution effectively kills mold spores and removes stains.

Protect yourself: Before starting the cleaning process, ensure your safety by wearing protective gloves to avoid skin contact with bleach, which can cause irritation or burns.

Cleaning process:

• Dampen cloth or sponge: Dip a clean sponge or soft cloth into the bleach solution. Ensure it is damp but not dripping.
• Wipe moldy areas: Gently wipe the moldy areas of the rattan furniture with a dampened cloth or sponge. Apply gentle pressure to remove the mold, taking care not to scrub too vigorously to avoid damaging the rattan fibers.
• Use a soft brush for stubborn mold: For stubborn mold spots that are difficult to remove with a cloth or sponge, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the affected areas. This helps to loosen the mold and facilitate its removal.

Rinse: After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the rattan furniture with a clean cloth dampened with water to remove any bleach residue. This step is essential to prevent discoloration or damage to the rattan material.

Dry: Allow the cleaned furniture to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area or under the sun. Ensure proper ventilation to aid in the drying process and prevent the growth of mold in the future.

How to clean natural vs. synthetic rattan furniture?

There will be differences in the properties of these two materials, so the cleaning methods will also vary. Source: Cielo

While the steps may be similar, the tools and methods vary depending on whether the material is natural or synthetic. Below is our comparison table to give you a clearer picture:

Step	Natural rattan furniture	Synthetic rattan furniture
Dusting	Use a microfiber cloth to gently remove dust. Vacuum with an upholstery attachment for crevices and hard-to-reach areas.	Dust with a soft cloth and hose down to remove surface dirt. Make sure to reach all corners and underneath the furniture.
Cleaning Solution	Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid.	Create a mild soapy solution with warm water and dishwashing liquid.
Cleaning Method	Wipe gently with a damp cloth, avoiding excess water that can weaken the rattan fibers.	Scrub carefully with a soft brush or sponge using the soapy solution. Pay attention to stains and dirty spots.
Stain and Mold Removal	For stubborn stains or mold, use a mixture of equal parts water and bleach. Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly to prevent discoloration.	Synthetic rattan is less prone to mold and stains, but if necessary, scrub with the soapy solution and rinse well.
Conditioning	Apply boiled linseed oil once or twice a year to maintain the rattan's natural shine and flexibility. Focus on areas that are prone to drying out, such as armrests and backs.	Synthetic rattan does not require conditioning. However, to restore shine, use a commercial plastic cleaner and polish according to manufacturer's instructions.
Drying	Air dry indoors in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent warping or cracking.	Air dry completely, preferably in a shaded area to prevent color fading. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

 

How to clean indoor vs. outdoor rattan furniture?

Let's see how outdoor rattan furniture needs to be cleaned and how it differs from indoor cleaning. Source: The Seattle Times

In addition to the different cleaning methods based on the material, we can also consider whether the furniture is used indoors or outdoors to determine the appropriate cleaning approach. So, what are the differences between them? Let's find out.

Step	Indoor rattan furniture	Outdoor rattan furniture
Dust and Debris Removal	Use a microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dust, pet hair, and debris from the surface of the furniture. Pay special attention to corners and crevices where dust may accumulate.	Brush off loose dirt, leaves, and debris with a soft-bristled brush or a handheld broom. Be thorough in removing any outdoor elements that may have settled on the furniture.
Cleaning Solution	Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap or rattan cleaner in a bucket. Ensure the solution is well-mixed.	Combine warm water with a mild detergent or rattan cleaner in a bucket. The cleaning solution should be strong enough to tackle outdoor dirt and grime but gentle enough not to damage the rattan material.
Application	Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and wring out any excess liquid. Gently wipe down the entire surface of the rattan furniture, ensuring thorough coverage. Use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas and intricate weaves.	Use a soft brush or scrubbing pad dipped in the cleaning solution to scrub the rattan furniture thoroughly. Pay close attention to areas with stubborn stains, mold, or mildew. Work in small sections to ensure all surfaces are cleaned effectively.
Rinse	Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with fresh water and use it to wipe away any soap residue from the rattan surface. Rinse the cloth or sponge frequently to prevent spreading soap residue.	Rinse the rattan furniture thoroughly with a garden hose or a bucket of clean water. Ensure all traces of soap and dirt are removed from the surface. Pay special attention to crevices and weave patterns to ensure no residue is left behind.
Conditioning	Allow the rattan furniture to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Ensure the furniture is completely dry before using or storing it to prevent mold or mildew growth.	Let the furniture air dry outdoors in a sunny spot, if possible. Alternatively, use a clean, dry cloth to pat the furniture dry and remove any excess water. Allow the furniture to dry completely before using it again.

Some do's and don'ts while cleaning your rattan furniture

There are some additional precautions, do's and don'ts, that we always have to remind you, as it's better to be safe than sorry.

Do's:

Use soft brushes or cloth: Choose soft-bristled brushes or microfiber cloths when cleaning rattan furniture. These materials are gentle on the surface and help prevent scratches or abrasions.

Apply furniture polish or wax: After cleaning, consider applying a thin layer of furniture polish or wax specifically designed for rattan furniture. This helps restore shine and provides an additional layer of protection against dirt and moisture.

Inspect for damage regularly: Periodically inspect your rattan furniture for any signs of damage, such as loose weave, broken strands, or signs of mold or mildew. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and prolong the lifespan of your furniture.

Use a toothbrush for tight spaces: For intricate weaves and tight corners, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove dirt and debris effectively. This allows you to target specific areas without causing damage to the surrounding rattan fibers.

Protect outdoor furniture: If your rattan furniture is used outdoors, invest in protective covers or storage solutions to shield it from harsh weather conditions when not in use. This helps prevent premature wear and prolongs the life of your outdoor furniture.

Don'ts:

Use steam cleaning: While steam cleaning is effective for some types of furniture, it's not suitable for rattan. The high heat and moisture can cause the rattan fibers to swell and weaken, leading to warping or distortion of the furniture.

Use bleach: Avoid using bleach or harsh chemical cleaners on rattan furniture, as these can strip away the natural oils and cause discoloration or damage to the material. Stick to mild, gentle cleaning solutions to preserve the integrity of the rattan.

Overexpose to sunlight: While rattan furniture can withstand moderate sunlight, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and weakening of the fibers over time. Place your furniture in shaded areas or use UV-resistant coatings to minimize sun damage.

Expose excessive moisture: While it's essential to clean rattan furniture regularly, avoid saturating it with water or leaving it damp for extended periods. Excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, compromising the structural integrity of the furniture.

Use abrasive tools: Refrain from using abrasive cleaning tools such as wire brushes or scouring pads on rattan furniture, as these can scratch or damage the surface. Stick to soft brushes and cloths to gently clean and maintain your furniture.

Tips to keep your rattan furniture clean longer

With proper maintenance, you can keep your rattan furniture looking clean and beautiful for years to come. Here are some tips on how to clean rattan furniture and keep it longer.

Regular dusting

You should do gentle weekly dusting or monthly damp cleaning of the furniture as well as a thorough yearly inspection to discover any split fibers. damage, or mold, then clean and repair them.

Dust and dirt accumulation is one of the most popular issues that occur with rattan furniture.

Regular dusting can prevent dirt or debris from settling into crevices promptly

To prevent build-up, use a dry, soft cloth or a feather duster to remove dust from the surface. Regular cleaning will prevent dirt or debris from settling into crevices.

Vacuuming

Sometimes it's a good idea to use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas of your rattan furniture. This is especially helpful for clouds because vacuuming can loosen and remove stuck-on debris that you may not have noticed.

Using vacuuming can help you clean  stuck-on debris that you may not have noticed

Be careful not to use the vacuum cleaner brush too hard on the rattan, especially if its surface is painted. A slow, gentle brush will prevent scratches while removing any remaining dirt. Therefore, the soft brush accessory will be the best choice for cloud scanning.

Spot cleaning

It is important to clean possible rattan stains promptly. If you see mold on your rattan furniture, remove it immediately, and don't let it spread over a large area. You may need to clean multiple times to resolve the problem depending on the amount of mold present.

Remove mold and mildew immediately and don't let it spread over

Deep cleaning

Your rattan furniture can collect a lot of dust and become dirty over time. For a deeper clean? You can mix warm water and mild dish soap in a bucket, then use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the entire furniture in circular motions.

When dust and dirty over time, you should clean deeply

You must make sure to reach all aspects and crevices of the clouds. Then, wipe the furniture with a clean, damp cloth to rinse off soap residue. Finally, place your rattan furniture in a completely dry and well-ventilated area.

Avoid harsh chemicals

Avoid using ammonia, bleach, or any products containing chemicals when cleaning your rattan furniture. Instead, you can use mild, non-abrasive cleaners and gentle cleaning techniques as well as clean tools, cloths, and mild cleaning products. This is the best for your rattan furniture.

You should avoid harsh chemicals because they can cause your furniture damage

Protect from direct sunlight

How to clean and restore rattan furniture? Perhaps the most effective way to keep rattan furniture beautiful for many years is to protect it from direct sunlight. Instead, you should place it indoors or on a covered patio.

If you have to use it outside as rattan garden furniture, you should make it waterproof and weatherproof.

Exposure to sunlight can cause rattan items to fade, dry out, and become easily damaged

Rattan furniture is lightweight so it's easy to store inside after using it outside. Leaving it in a humid place will cause the fibers to deteriorate and mold, and if the air is particularly dry or cold it will cause the fibers to dry out and break.

Furthermore, direct exposure to sunlight can cause rattan and bamboo items to fade, dry out, and become more easily damaged.

Therefore, to maintain the natural color and avoid cracking, you should place rattan furniture in a place away from direct sunlight. Additionally, you can use curtains, blinds, or anti-UV window film to protect your rattan furniture from harsh sunlight.

Don't leave natural rattan furniture outside for too long

Natural rattan furniture is sensitive to prolonged exposure to the elements, which can cause damage from moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. To protect your natural rattan furniture, use it primarily indoors or in shaded areas.

Get yourself covers like these to help protect rattan furniture from harsh weather conditions. Source: Garden Selections

If you must leave it outside, use protective covers and bring it indoors during extreme weather. Regularly applying a protective sealant can further shield it from environmental damage.

Other ideas to keep your rattan furniture clean

In addition to the main ideas, here are two extra tips that will surely elevate your rattan furniture cleaning experience:

• Protective lacquer application: After cleaning, apply a protective coat of lacquer to your rattan furniture. This simple step adds an extra layer of protection and helps preserve its pristine appearance. Use a toothbrush for precise application, requiring minimal time and effort.
• Lemon oil treatment: Enhance the durability and aesthetics of your rattan furniture by applying lemon oil. Gently rub lemon oil onto the furniture's surface using a soft cloth. Not only does this protect the rattan, but it also adds a beautiful shine to the furniture.

If you want your rattan furniture to always look beautiful, you need to consider other care methods as well. Source: Bloom in the Black

Faqs: How to clean rattan furniture

Can you pressure wash rattan furniture?

• No, pressure washing can damage the delicate fibers. Use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft brush instead.

How do I remove stains from rattan furniture?

• To remove stains, gently scrub the affected area with a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap using a soft cloth or toothbrush. For tougher stains, a bit of baking soda can be added to the solution. Rinse with clean water and allow the furniture to air dry completely.

What do I do if my rattan furniture has mold and mildew?

• Mix equal parts water and white vinegar or use a mild bleach solution to treat mold and mildew. Apply the solution with a sponge or soft cloth, scrub gently, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Allow the furniture to dry completely in a well-ventilated area or in the sun.

Preventing mold and mildew on rattan furniture?

• To prevent mold and mildew, ensure your rattan furniture is kept in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid leaving it in damp or humid environments. Regular cleaning and applying a protective sealant can also help prevent mold growth.

How do I make my rattan look new again?

• Clean the rattan thoroughly, remove any stains, and let it dry completely. Apply a coat of boiled linseed oil or lemon oil to condition and restore its shine. For heavily weathered rattan, consider using a clear lacquer or varnish for added protection and to enhance its appearance.

Is it OK for rattan furniture to get wet?

• Occasional moisture is fine, but prolonged exposure can cause damage. Always dry thoroughly after it gets wet.

Can you clean rattan with vinegar?

• Yes, you can clean rattan with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. This solution is effective for removing mold and mildew. Always rinse with clean water afterward and allow the furniture to dry completely.

Should you oil rattan furniture?

• Yes, applying oil such as boiled linseed oil or lemon oil helps maintain the flexibility and shine of natural rattan furniture. Regular oiling can prevent the fibers from drying out and becoming brittle.

Can weathered rattan be restored?

• Weathered rattan can often be restored by cleaning thoroughly, sanding lightly to remove rough spots, and applying a protective oil or clear lacquer. This process can rejuvenate the appearance and extend the life of the furniture.

How to freshen up rattan furniture?

• Freshen up rattan furniture by dusting regularly, cleaning with a mild soap solution, and applying lemon oil or a protective lacquer. These steps help maintain the furniture's appearance and prolong its lifespan.

Is rattan furniture hard to clean?

• No, regular dusting and gentle cleaning with mild soap keep it in good condition.

How do you moisturize rattan?

• Moisturize rattan by applying boiled linseed oil or lemon oil with a soft cloth. This helps keep the fibers flexible and prevents them from becoming dry and brittle.

How do I make my rattan shine?

• To make rattan shine, clean it thoroughly and apply a coat of lemon oil or boiled linseed oil. Buff the surface with a soft cloth to enhance the shine and protect the fibers.

What are the disadvantages of rattan furniture?

• It’s sensitive to moisture, prone to mold and mildew, can become brittle, and may fade in direct sunlight.

Do I need to wash the upholstery?

• Yes, if your rattan furniture has upholstered cushions or seats, you should wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular cleaning of upholstery helps maintain the overall appearance and hygiene of the furniture.

Why should I repair splits in the furniture?

• Repairing splits in rattan furniture is essential to maintain its structural integrity and prevent further damage. Addressing splits promptly can prolong the lifespan of the furniture and keep it looking attractive.

Conclusion

Rattan furniture is a popular choice for every homeowner because of its versatility, durability, weather resistance, and natural appeal. In this article, Rowabi has given you some tips on how to clean rattan furniture as well as the way to keep it clean longer.

If you have any questions relating to cleaning and storing rattan furniture, contact us directly for more information.