How to Maintain Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture in Winter

When it comes to enjoying the beauty of your outdoor living space, no matter the time of year, one of the key factors lies in your choice of furniture. Artificial wicker outdoor furniture, for instance, is a popular option due to its stylish design, attractive appeal, and all-weather durability. However, maintaining these furniture pieces during the harsh winter season can be a bit challenging if you are not equipped with the right strategies and tips.

This blog post will arm you with the essential knowledge to keep your artificial wicker outdoor furniture in top-notch shape even during the colder months. By learning how to properly care for and store them, you can ensure they remain beautiful, functional, and long-lasting.

Understanding Artificial Wicker

Artificial wicker, also known as resin wicker or all-weather wicker, is a type of synthetic furniture material designed to mimic the look and feel of natural wicker. They are made from sturdy materials such as PVC, nylon, polyethylene, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), thereby offering better durability, resilience, and versatility compared to their natural counterparts.

While traditional wicker tends to crack, split, or deteriorate under extreme weather conditions, artificial wicker is specifically designed to withstand varying weather situations, including the Australian winter. However, being exposed to cold temperatures, snow, and moisture for long periods can still cause wear and tear.

Prepping Your Wicker Furniture for Winter

Maintaining the condition of your artificial wicker furniture during winter significantly begins with how you prepare them before the harsh climate kicks in. Here are five essential steps:

1. Clean Your Furniture: Before storing your outdoor wicker furniture for the season, thoroughly clean them. Use a mild soap in warm water and scrub lightly with a soft bristle brush. This helps remove any accumulated dirt, dust, or bird droppings that could cause staining if left unattended. Rinse them well and let them dry completely before moving on to the next step.


2. Apply a Protective Coat: Protective coatings can help shield your furniture from damage. There are protective sprays specifically designed to be used on artificial wicker materials. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying these products.


3. Remove Cushions and Fabric: If your wicker furniture comes with cushions or other fabric accessories, it is best to remove and store them separately indoors. Even if the fabric is marked as outdoor material, they're prone to mildew or mould when left in damp conditions.


4. Dry the Furniture: It is crucial to ensure your artificial wicker furniture is completely dry before you store it. Wicker can retain water in its crevices and when temperatures drop, the water can freeze and crack the material.


5. Cover or Store the Furniture: It is recommended to store your artificial wicker furniture indoors during winter. If this is not possible due to space limitation, ensure they are properly covered. This prevents them from being exposed to snow, ice, and wind that winter weather brings.

Winter Care Tips for Artificial Wicker Furniture

Even with preparations, ongoing maintenance of your artificial wicker outdoor furniture in winter remains crucial. Below are some essential preventative and proactive measures that you can take:

1. Regularly Check for Damages: While artificial wicker outdoor furniture is made to be quite tough and resilient, the cold can potentially cause it to become brittle and crack. Regularly checking your furniture can help you identify any minor damages and address them promptly before they degrade further.


2. Brush Off Snow: Removing snow from furniture as soon as possible prevents moisture from seeping into your wicker furniture. Moisture can build up in the crevices and freeze, causing cracks and splits.


3. Wipe Wet Spots: Use a soft cloth to wipe off any moisture or wet spots quickly. This prevents water from seeping into your artificial wicker furniture and triggering the growth of mould or mildew.


4. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals for cleaning your wicker outdoor furniture. These chemicals can strip the finish and damage the furniture. Use mild soap and soft rags for cleaning any spills or dirt.


5. Prevent Prolonged Direct Sunlight: Although less common in winter, prolonged exposure to heavy sunlight can cause artificial wicker to dry out and become brittle. So, keep your furniture in a shaded area or make use of outdoor umbrellas or other shading options when the sun is out.

Conclusion

With some careful preparation, regular checks and practical steps, you can maintain the beauty and durability of your artificial wicker outdoor furniture throughout winter. Remember, whilst artificial wicker is made from durable materials, it is not completely invincible, and giving them proper care can go a long way in ensuring their longevity.

So, don't let the Australian winter deter you from enjoying your outdoor living space. Reduce the winter's impact on your artificial wicker outdoor furniture by following the advice in this blog post.