How to Revive Your Artificial Wicker Outdoor Furniture for Spring

As the chill of winter mellows into that warm, inviting Spring sun, we can count on our gardens to transition from an icy landscape to a vibrant canvas of blossoming flora. Our outdoor spaces become the embodiment of laughter, barbies, catch-ups and unforgettable blush-coloured sunsets. Yet amongst all this change, there's one thing we can always rely on; our trusty wicker outdoor furniture. Braving, as it does, harsh winters, the scorching summer heat, and everything else Mother Nature throws its way, it perhaps most deserves a facelift come Spring.

Lucky for you, this blog is all about how to revitalise your artificial wicker outdoor furniture and get it spring-ready. For a fresh start to those pleasant spring days, follow along.

I. Cleaning Your Wicker Furniture

Let's begin by cleaning up your wicker pieces. Over time, they collect dust and grime, and depending on where you live, maybe even a touch of mildew. Not to worry, a thorough cleanup shouldn't take too much elbow grease.

1. Start With A Dry Brush

The first step is a gentle dry brushing. You'll want to use a soft, dry brush to carefully go over each piece of furniture, reaching into all those nooks and crannies to remove cobwebs, dirt and loose debris.

2. Prepare A Cleaning Solution

Next, prepare a cleaning solution. In a bucket, mix lukewarm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. You want this to be sudsy but not overly so. Steer clear of using anything too harsh or abrasive as it may harm your synthetic wicker and fade its colour.

3. Gently Scrub

Use a soft cloth or sponge soaked in your cleaning solution and gently scrub the furniture. For stubborn stains or spots, a soft toothbrush might do the trick.

4. Rinse And Dry

Rinse off the soap with your garden hose. Avoid using a high-pressure hose as it can damage the wicker. Once rinsed, let your furniture air dry. If it's a sunny day, this should take only a few hours. Make sure your furniture is completely dry before moving to the next step.

II. Prevention And Maintenance

Once you've got your wicker furniture shining like new, it's time to think about prevention and maintenance. These following steps will help your furniture look fresher for longer.

1. Treat with a UV-Protector

Although artificial wicker is more resistant to weather elements than its natural counterpart, it’s not invincible. Over time, the sun's harsh UV rays can fade and dry out your furniture, making it brittle. To avoid this, apply a UV-protective spray specially designed for outdoor wicker furniture. This can be easily found in any home improvement store or online. Apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions and let it dry.

2. Invest in Quality Covers

If your furniture can't be moved indoors or under a covered area during harsh weather, consider investing in some quality, waterproof furniture covers. These will shield your furniture from rain, strong winds, and dust, ensuring they stay clean and well-preserved.

3. Regular Dusting and Cleaning

Cleaning your wicker furniture shouldn't just be a spring affair. For lasting freshness and extended durability, regular dusting and occasional cleaning with mild soap water are advised. A quick clean every month or so should suffice.

III. Winter Storage

Lastly, we can't forget about winter storage. How you store your furniture during those long winter months can impact its life and looks. Because even though artificial wicker furniture is made for the outdoors, in harsh winter conditions, it's best protected inside.

1. Store Indoors

If possible, clear some space in your garage, shed, or basement for your furniture. If not possible, consider investing in a storage unit.

2. Use Quality Furniture Covers

If indoor storage absolutely isn't an option, go back to the quality covers we talked about earlier. These become even more essential for outdoor winter storage. Make sure they're secure so they can't blow away in the wind.

3. Leave No Traces of Autumn!

Before you store or cover your furniture, make sure you've cleaned off all the brittle autumn leaves and any other debris. If left unchecked, these can stain your wicker.

So, there are all the tips and tricks to get your artificial wicker outdoor furniture spick and span for the upcoming Spring season. These small caring steps can make a hefty difference in the longevity of your furniture, and in the aesthetics of your outdoors. Happy spring cleaning!