How to Revitalize Your Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture in the Spring

G'day, mate! Spring is just around the corner and the warmer weather means a lot more time spent outdoors. If your artificial wicker outdoor furniture is looking a bit tired and worn, don't stress. The good news is, you don't necessarily need to shell out big bucks for a new set. With a bit of love and care, you can revitalise the furniture you already have and make it look as good as new. So, let's crack on!

Benefits of Artificial Wicker Furniture

Before we dive into the rejuvenation process, it's important to understand why artificial wicker is such a fantastic choice for outdoor furniture. Firstly, it's pretty lightweight, which makes it easy to rearrange your outdoor settings on a whim.

Secondly, artificial wicker is incredibly durable and can withstand the harsh Aussie sun, heavy downpours and those unexpected spring storms. It's also resistant to mould and mildew, which are common problems with natural rattan furniture.

Lastly, unlike natural rattan furniture, artificial wicker doesn't crack, fade or splinter over time. So, with a bit of TLC, your artificial wicker furniture can be the star of your outdoor area for many years to come.

1. Start with a Good, Thorough Cleaning

Before anything else, your furniture will need a good clean, especially after the harshness of winter. This will give it a fresh start for spring.
The cleaning process can generally be broken down into these steps:

1. Prepare for cleaning: Remove any cushions or upholstery and set them aside. They can be cleaned separately to ensure they're fresh and bright for the coming spring season.


2. Remove dust and loose dirt: Using a dry, soft cloth or a brush with soft bristles, gently brush off any dust, debris or dirt from the furniture. Don't forget to get into the nooks and crannies. An old toothbrush can be particularly handy for this.


3. Mix a cleaning solution: In a large bucket, mix 1/4 cup mild detergent with one litre of warm water. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners as they can damage your artificial wicker.


4. Apply cleaning solution: Soak a soft cloth or sponge in the cleaning solution and thoroughly wipe down your furniture. Make sure you really get into those nooks and crannies to shift any stubborn dirt or grime.


5. Rinse: Rinse off the furniture with a hose at low pressure. Try to avoid soaking the furniture as this might damage it. High-pressure blasting can also damage the weave, so use caution. You just want to gently remove any soap residue.


6. Pat dry: Pat the furniture dry with a clean cloth. Finally, allow it to air-dry completely before replacing the cushions or starting any additional maintenance.

2. Inspect and Repair

Once the furniture is thoroughly clean and dry, you're ready for the next step: inspection and repair. Even though artificial wicker is highly durable, it can still potentially suffer damage. Luckily, most minor damage can be repaired easily. Here's what to look out for:

• Loose Ends: Occasionally, the ends of the artificial wicker strands may become loose. In such cases, you can use a bit of clear craft glue to secure them back in place. Just remember, less is more when it comes to glue.


• Broken Strands: Broken strands are a bit trickier to deal with. They can often be replaced with new strands by carefully weaving them in to match the existing pattern. Artificial wicker is available at most craft stores or online.

3. Freshen Up the Colour

If your furniture is looking a bit faded after a tough winter, a fresh coat of paint might be just what it needs. This step will not only change the appearance but also provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.

1. Sand: Lightly sand the furniture using a fine-grit sandpaper to help the new paint adhere better.


2. Choose the Paint: Choose a high-quality spray paint that is specifically designed for outdoor use and is safe for your artificial wicker. It's always better to go with a paint that offers UV protection to prevent future fading.


3. Apply: Apply the paint following the manufacturer's directions. Remember to spray in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary precautions to avoid painting unintended areas.


4. Allow to Dry: Patience is key! Allow the furniture to dry completely before you move to the next step.

4. Refresh the Cushions

Last but not least, it's time to freshen up your cushions. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce new colours, patterns and textures to your outdoor space. If you're pretty handy with a needle and thread, you might even choose to make new cushion covers yourself. However, there are also many ready-made options available online or in-store that can work just as well if you prefer.

If the cushions themselves are a bit worn out or uncomfortable, consider replacing them entirely or even just the inner cushioning. Remember to choose high-quality outdoor foam that can withstand the elements.

There you have it! Your artificial wicker furniture is now ready for the warmer weather. Pass us a cold one, right? You've earned it! So sit back, relax, and enjoy your revitalised outdoor space this spring and many more to come. Cheers!