How to Maintain Your Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture in Winter

Outdoor living spaces hold a significant place in any Australian home. They serve as little oases where we soak up the sun, entertain guests, or simply enjoy a relaxing moment by ourselves. A central part of these al fresco spaces is the outdoor furniture. Artificial wicker furniture, with its chic style and durable nature, holds a unique charm for homeowners.

However, maintaining your outdoor furniture, especially during wintry conditions, may pose a challenge. This article aims to guide you through the process of maintaining your artificial wicker outdoor furniture during the harshness of winter, ensuring it remains in prime condition.

Understanding Artificial Wicker

Firstly, let's appreciate artificial wicker for what it really is. Also known as resin wicker, synthetic wicker or all-weather wicker, it looks very similar to natural wicker but is made of synthetic polyethylene resin, which is weather-resistant. This means, it can withstand the sun's burning UV rays in summer, and the cold, wet conditions of winter.

Not only is artificial wicker extremely durable, but it also comes in various styles and colours, making it a versatile choice for outdoor furniture. Despite these advantages, to get the best lifespan out of your artificial wicker furniture it needs proper care and maintenance, particularly during winter.

Maintaining Your Artificial Wicker Furniture

1. Thorough Cleaning

The first step in maintaining your artificial wicker furniture is by giving it a good clean. This should be done before winter hits to ensure that no dirt, dust or grime is left sitting on the furniture during cold and moist conditions.

• Start by brushing the furniture with a soft, dry cloth or a soft-bristle brush to remove any loose dust.




• Then, prepare a mild soapy solution by mixing a few drops of dish soap in a bucket of warm water.




• Using a soft cloth or a sponge, clean the furniture thoroughly with this soapy solution. Pay special attention to cracks and crevices.




• Rinse the furniture with a hose. Make sure all the soap is washed away as residual soap can attract dirt.




• Finally, dry your furniture thoroughly using another clean, dry cloth or towel. You can also let it air-dry in the sun.

Remember, thorough drying is crucial to prevent moisture from getting trapped in the crevices of the wicker, which may lead to mould and mildew.

2. Protecting the Furniture

Once the furniture is clean and dry, it's time to protect it. Here are some tips on how to do so:

• Consider using outdoor furniture covers. They provide an extra layer of protection against the winter elements. Look for good quality, waterproof covers that fit your furniture properly.




• Another option is to move the furniture indoors during the colder months. If you have a shed, garage or a basement, they can be the perfect place for storage. Remember, even though artificial wicker is weather resistant, prolonged exposure to moisture can deteriorate the material.

3. Regular Maintenance Checks

Even in storage or under protective covers, regular checks, at least once a month, are essential for your artificial wicker furniture.

• Look for any signs of mould or mildew. If detected, clean immediately using a mild bleach solution, rinse well and dry thoroughly.




• Check for any loose or frayed ends. In case you find any, trim them gently using a pair of sharp scissors. Do not pull on loose ends, this can damage the weave structure.

Conclusion

Winters can be brutal on outdoor furniture but with proper precautions and maintenance, your artificial wicker furniture can navigate this season with ease. Regular cleaning, protection from winter elements and vigilant maintenance checks are fundamental to ensure the longevity and beauty of your investment. So, as the mercury drops and winter sets in, gear up to give your outdoor furniture the TLC it needs. After all, who doesn't look forward to basking in the sun on their favourite wicker chair once the warmer months come around?