How to Preserve and Protect Your Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture in Winter

Introduction

Artificial wicker furniture, with its timeless charm and casual elegance, is a popular choice for outdoor spaces in Australian homes. However, as enchanting as wicker might be, it requires proper care and protection, particularly during the harsh winter seasons.

While artificial wicker is resilient, winter weather elements like frost, snow, and cold winds can potentially cause damage. This guide will provide you with practical steps on how to preserve and protect your artificial wicker outdoor furniture during winter, ensuring it stays in optimum condition for years to come.

Cleaning Your Wicker Furniture

Before the onslaught of winter, it's essential to thoroughly clean your wicker furniture. This helps to prevent debris and dirt from becoming more embedded during the harsh weather.

Here are the steps to give your furniture a good clean:

• Freshen up with soap and water: Using mild soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge, gently clean the surface of your wicker furniture. Avoid harsh detergents as they may discolour or damage the wicker weave. Rinse with a hose (use gentle pressure) and let dry completely.



• Vacuum: Use a handheld vacuum or brush attachment on your vacuum to remove any loose debris or dust from the small crevices of the wicker.



• Sponge bath: For stubborn stains, use a sponge soaked in a vinegar-water solution. Mix one part vinegar and two parts water to create this solution.

Covering Your Furniture

The simplest way to protect your wicker furniture from winter elements is to use a cover. This not only shields your furniture from snow, freezing rain, and UV-rays but also prevents dirt and dust accumulation.

You can find many types of furniture covers on the market, but choose ones that are:

• Waterproof: To protect your furniture from the dampness



• Breathable: To prevent mould and mildew growth



• UV resistant: To stop the harsh sun from fading your wicker

Relocating Your Wicker Furniture

If you have space, it's recommendable to relocate your artificial wicker furniture indoors during winter. This protects it from the harsh weather conditions and increases its lifespan significantly.

If it's impossible to move all your outdoor furniture inside, prioritise the most delicate items. Typically, these are pieces with thinner weaves or more intricate wicker patterns.

Applying a Winter Coat

No, not the kind you'd wear – a protective sealant. Applying an extra coat of lacquer, varnish, or wax to your artificial wicker before winter gives it a layer of protection.

Create sure the wicker is completely dry before you apply the sealant, and let it cure for 24 hours before using your furniture. This extra layer will repel water and make your wicker more resistant to the elements.

Maintaining Your Cushions

Remember, it's not just the wicker frame that needs protecting - your cushions need care too. Most outdoor fabrics are resistant to water and fading, but they aren’t impervious to these effects. Cleaning and storing your cushions indoors during winter months will significantly extend their lifespan.

Give them a good clean according to the manufacturer's instructions, and allow them fully dry before storing them. This process helps prevent mould and mildew from accumulating.

Conclusion

Paying a little bit of attention to your artificial wicker outdoor furniture as winter approaches can help extend its lifespan, save you money in the long run and keep your outdoor space looking beautiful. So, before the frosty weather descends upon your Australian home, make sure to clean, cover up, relocate if possible, apply protective sealants and keep those cushions safe. Your artificial wicker furniture will thank you by providing many seasons of comfort and style.