How to Revitalize Your Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture in the Spring Period

Spring: it’s that magical season when the harshness of winter ebbs away, and the optimism of new life is in the air. Nowhere is this transition more welcomed than in our outdoor living spaces, left abandoned during the cold months but now ready to be emboldened by the soothing spring breeze and the warm glow of the sun.

Armour yourself with the brush, the polish, and the unwavering commitment to restore your tired artificial wicker outdoor furniture back to life! This blog will unpack how to revitalise your synthetic wicker furniture, so it’s ready to shine under the Australian spring sun.

Cleaning Your Wicker Furniture

The first and most critical step when it comes to restoring your artificial wicker outdoor furniture to its former glory is cleaning. This process is not merely a facelift for the looks; it also helps in prolonging the lifespan of your furniture.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Remove Cushions and Other Soft Elements
Start by removing soft components such as cushions and any other fabric covers that might be part of your wicker furniture. The majority of these can be washed in a machine or at least spot cleaned.
2. Dusting
This could be done using a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner. What you aim to achieve at this stage is to remove loose dust and dirt that's settled in the spaces between the wicker.
3. Cleaning with Soap and Water
Create a mixture of warm water and mild soap (a tablespoon of soap for a gallon of water is fine). Dampen a soft scrubbing brush with the solution and clean your furniture thoroughly, ensuring each nook gets attention.
4. Rinsing and Drying
Rinse off the soap mixture by gently hosing down the wicker furniture. You could use a soft cloth or sponge to remove any remaining soap water. Lastly, let it dry naturally in the sun.

It’s important to note that you should avoid using hard-bristled brushes or high-pressure water hoses, as these could damage the woven pattern of the wicker. Also, remember to dry your furniture thoroughly to prevent mould and mildew.

Repainting Your Wicker Furniture

Repainting is another effective way to revitalise your wicker furniture and bring a pop of freshness to your outdoor space. But before you jump into painting, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:

1. Choose the right type of paint
It's preferable to use spray paint because it's easier to reach all the crevices and interwoven parts of the wicker. Choose a high-quality outdoor paint that can withstand fluctuations in weather conditions.
2. Initial preparations
Make sure to clean your furniture and let it dry as discussed in the cleaning section. Also, remember to lay a cloth or a disposable sheet to protect the area from paint splatter.
3. Painting
Hold the can about ten inches away from the furniture and spray in a steady, sweeping motion. Make sure to spray from different angles to reach hidden spots. Apply several light coats instead of one heavy one. Remember: patience is key here, allowing ample drying in between coats.
4. Sealing
After the final coat of paint, apply an outdoor sealant to protect your furniture from the damaging effects of UV rays and rain.

Reviving your outdoor wicker furniture need not be daunting. By cleaning and repainting, your garden space will look appealing and ready for countless springtime lounging sessions. Do the restorative work now and enjoy the dividends through the spring, summer, and beyond.

Enjoy your revitalised outdoor haven, mates!