How to Preserve Your Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture in Winter

Australia is indeed blessed with sunny weather, but the colder months can be a bit harsh for your beloved outdoor furniture. One that often gets overlooked is the wicker outdoor furniture - more precisely, its synthetic counterpart which is the artificial wicker. Artificial wicker furniture, also known as resin wicker or all-weather wicker, offers a charm very similar to natural wicker but it is much more versatile and durable.

An integral part of our outdoor spaces, decks and patios, wicker pieces can, unfortunately, undergo substantial damage through Australia's winter weather. So, how can you protect and increase the durability of your artificial wicker outdoor furniture? Let's get into it!

Understanding Your Wicker Furniture

When we talk about wicker, it doesn't refer to a specific material, but rather the technique of weaving materials into a structured form. Traditional wicker was made with natural fibres, but these days we often get to see artificial wicker pieces in our outdoor spaces, made from synthetic resins. Its prime advantages include:

• Increased durability
• Improved weather resistance
• Less maintenance requirement

Even with such impressive features, taking some simple steps helps it withstand the winter season without losing its allure.

Cleaning your Artificial Wicker Furniture

Regular cleaning is a must regardless of the season; it helps maintain both the aesthetics and longevity of your furniture. Here's how you can do it in a few simple steps:

1. Remove the pillows and cushions. If they have machine-washable covers, wash them according to the specified instructions.




2. Use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, or a soft cloth to remove loose dirt and detritus from the surface of the furniture.




3. Mix some mild detergent with warm water to create a cleaning solution. Scrub gently on the hard-to-reach areas of the furniture. Rinse it thoroughly afterwards.




4. Let the furniture dry completely before replacing the cushions. Damp weather conditions could lead to mould growth on the pre-soaked wicker surfaces.

Furnishing Protection While Outdoors

If leaving your furniture outdoors is the only option, few measures can help mitigate the cold damages.

• Use tailored furniture covers: They shield the furniture from snow, rain, and harsh winds while ensuring that the air can still circulate to avoid dampness.
• Elevation: Protect your furniture from cold surfaces by elevating them on wooden boards or blocks. This prevents the legs and bases from absorbing cold temperature.
• Rotation: Regular rotation prevents one side or portion of the furniture from enduring excessive wind or wet condition.

Bring Furniture Indoors

If space allows, the best way to keep your artificial wicker outdoor furniture safe during the winter months is to bring them indoors. Be it in the garage, shed or basement, sheltered spaces protect your outdoor furniture better. This substantially reduces the exposure to inclement weather.

Pre-Winter Care

Prevention always goes a long way. Before winter sets in, take the time to thoroughly inspect your wicker furniture. Look for fraying, cracked or loose strands. Repair or replace them as necessary.

Conclusion

Artificial wicker furniture adds aesthetic essence to your outdoor spaces, and to enjoy it year after year, you need to take the right care of it. A little regular maintenance and winter care can help your beloved furniture endure through the cold months and come up just as beautiful when spring arrives. Following these tips will ensure you prolong the life of your artificial wicker outdoor furniture, making it a reliable and stylish component of your outdoor living area well into the future.