Friday, January 17, 2014

Practical Ways Of Maintaining Outdoor Wicker Furniture

By Judy Sullivan


Outdoor chicago wicker furniture is a favorite among homeowners. Besides its functionality and comfort, it is also the most durable material available. The synthetic materials do not bend or rust, unlike the steel. Its elasticity also makes it possible to yield to every design imaginable. Not to mention its natural beauty. Most of all, rattan is exceptionally comfortable.

This is indeed a sound investment for any homeowner. The articles can endure decades of extreme use even when placed outside. It can withstand direct sunlight, humidity, wear and tear, and inclement weather better than all other materials. If you want to lengthen the lifetime of your investment, here are some pointers in taking care of the furnishings.

Needless to say, you need to regularly clean the articles to maintain its sturdiness. Accumulated dust, dirt and grime are not only unsightly, but may also degrade the article's quality. Thoroughly clean the furniture, especially the crevices where dirt is more likely to build up. Use a vacuum with brush attachment to dust off the article.

Cleaning the wicker can be different from cleaning other furniture, though. The wickers are intricately weaved, so there are areas that are difficult to reach. You may use a mixture of warm water and mild soap in cleaning. Do not wet the reeds too much to avoid water damage. Instead, you can use a soft dampen cloth. Use a toothbrush to brush off dirt between the gap of the crevices.

Watch out for water damage. When the wicker gets wet too often, its quality may be subverted. Moisture may cause the material to warp or mildew. Protect your furnishings from harsh elements. A porch, roofed patio or veranda can protect the articles from rain. Avoid using wet wickers, too. Wet reeds bend, so added weight may cause irreparable damages and distortion.

Ironically, too little moisture may cause the reeds to break down. Dryness causes the material to become brittle. Therefore, you also have to replenish the lost moisture before the article gets completely dried up. Wet the wickers then place them under a shade and allow to dry. For added shine, boiled linseed oil can be used. Re-moisturize the articles no less than once a year.

A prime cushion can also help extend the article's lifespan. Not only does cushioning provides comfort, it also protects the weave from loosening. Replacing the cushion is much easier and more practical than having to get a new piece of article as well. So long as its frame remains intact and firm, the cushions can be replaced several times.

No matter how durable the material is, you must remember that it can incur damages all the same. Improper use and maintenance can still cause damages. It is not advisable to leave the furnishings outside for an extended period. Exposure to rain, snow and sun can eventually lead to deterioration. Cover the wickers or bring them inside if the weather does not look good.

Without a doubt, an outdoor chicago wicker furniture is a wise investment. Since it is exceptionally long-lasting, this can be handed down from generations to generations. However, you should realize that the articles may still deteriorate over time. Therefore, you must learn how to take good care of it if you want your investment to see better days.




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