Rattan Furniture Clean & Care Guide: Keep Your Garden Set Looking Its Best

At The Outlet Home, we believe your garden furniture should be both stylish and long-lasting. That’s why we’ve put together this expert Rattan Furniture Clean & Care Guide, helping you protect your investment and enjoy your outdoor space for years to come. With just a little maintenance, your rattan furniture can stay in pristine condition—whether it's natural or synthetic, classic or contemporary.

How to Clean Rattan Furniture

Proper cleaning is the first step to preserving the life and look of your furniture. Whether you've just brought your rattan set home or you're refreshing it for the new season, follow these simple steps:

Cleaning Steps:

1. Vacuum or Brush Off Dust
   Use a handheld vacuum or soft brush attachment to remove loose dust and debris from all surfaces.

2. Detail Clean Crevices
   Use a toothbrush, cocktail stick, or similar fine tool to get into the nooks and crannies.

3. Gentle Wash
   Fill a bowl with warm, soapy water (mild detergent only). Alternatively, rinse lightly with a garden hose.

4. Clean with Suds, Not Water
   Use only the soap suds collected with a soft cloth to wipe down the rattan. This prevents over-saturating the material.

5. Target Hard-to-Reach Areas
   Apply the bubbles to cracks using a toothbrush.

6. Dry Thoroughly
   Let the furniture dry completely in the sun or a well-ventilated space. Never store or use rattan while it's still damp.

How to Care for Rattan Furniture

Even though rattan furniture from The Outlet Home is built to be durable and weather-resistant, regular care helps it last even longer and maintain its appearance. Here's how to keep your set looking its best:

✅ Use Garden Furniture Covers

Invest in high-quality, breathable covers made from polyester with a PVC backing. These protect against rain, frost, UV damage, and general wear.

✅ Store Cushions Safely

Outdoor rattan furniture cushions are typically showerproof, not waterproof. Store them indoors or in a cushion storage box when not in use—especially during rainy or cold months.

✅ Avoid Excess Sun Exposure

Direct sunlight can fade or weaken rattan over time. If possible, place your furniture in a shaded spot or rotate pieces periodically to ensure even exposure.

✅ Rotate Furniture Placement

Help your set wear evenly by rotating chairs and tables—just like you’d rotate tires. It’s an easy trick that extends the life of your entire set.

✅ Move Furniture Correctly

Always lift furniture by its frame, not the woven panels, to avoid damaging the rattan structure.

✅ Clean Up Spills Immediately

Accidents happen, especially outdoors. Use a damp cloth to wipe up any spills right away and avoid staining or warping.

✅ Protect the Feet

Check the feet of your furniture regularly. Avoid dragging them across rough surfaces and keep them clean and dry to prevent premature wear.

✅ Use Cushions for More Than Comfort

Cushions don’t just feel good—they protect the weave from sharp items like keys or phones in your pockets.

How Long Does Rattan Furniture Last?

High-quality synthetic rattan furniture from The Outlet Home can last up to 10 years outdoors—especially if it’s crafted with rust-resistant aluminum frames and UV-protected weave. Even natural rattan, with the right care, can offer years of enjoyment. The key is maintenance, protection, and occasional restoration.

Repairing & Restoring Rattan Furniture

Rattan is naturally strong and flexible, but over time, it may need a little restoration. Here’s how to handle minor damage:

🔧 Fixing Splits and Cracks

Apply boiled linseed oil once a year using a soft brush. Let the rattan absorb the oil, then wipe away the excess to prevent cracking and dryness.

🎨 Painting Rattan

Use spray paint for the best coverage. Clean and dry the furniture thoroughly, then apply a light primer followed by 2–3 thin coats of your chosen color.

🪑 Refinishing Rattan

Start by cleaning and drying the piece. Apply a liquid sander if you're changing the color, then refinish with 2–3 coats of paint or protective finish.

Final Thoughts: A Little Care Goes a Long Way

At The Outlet Home, we want you to enjoy your rattan garden furniture for many summers to come. With just a few simple cleaning and care steps, your outdoor space can stay stylish, comfortable, and low-maintenance year after year.

So whether you're relaxing in the sun or entertaining guests, trust that your rattan set is ready for every occasion—because you've taken the time to care for it properly.