How to Clean Wicker Furniture: The Complete Guide That Actually Works

You’re staring at your beautiful wicker furniture, and it’s… not so beautiful anymore. Dust nestled in every weave. Maybe a mystery stain from last summer’s barbecue. And that slight musty smell that makes you wonder if you’ve ruined your investment.

Here’s the thing: Cleaning wicker furniture doesn’t have to be scary. But one wrong move with the wrong cleaner, and yes, you could damage it beyond repair. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide based on 25+ years of handling premium wicker pieces at High End Used Furniture.

Whether you’ve got a vintage Ethan Allen wicker set or a modern synthetic piece, this guide will walk you through exactly how to clean wicker furniture safely and effectively. No guesswork. No accidents. Just clean, beautiful furniture.

Types of Wicker Furniture

Before you grab any cleaning supplies, STOP.

The biggest mistake people make? Treating all wicker the same. It’s like washing cashmere with the same intensity as denim. Natural and synthetic wicker are completely different beasts, and using the wrong cleaning method is the fastest way to destroy your furniture.

Identifying Your Wicker Type

Think of wicker as falling into two camps:

Natural Wicker:

• Made from rattan, bamboo, or willow
• Has slight color variations (that’s how you know it’s real!)
• Feels lighter when you lift it
• Shows the beauty of organic materials

Synthetic Wicker:

• Made from polyethylene resin
• Uniform color throughout
• Heavier and more substantial
• Built to withstand the elements

Quick Test: Look closely at the weave. See subtle color differences and texture variations? That’s natural wicker. Perfectly uniform? You’ve got synthetic.

Why Material Matters

Here’s what happens when you get it wrong:

Natural wicker + too much water = warping, cracking, and mold (nightmare scenario)
Synthetic wicker + gentle cleaning = still dirty furniture (waste of time)

Check out this comparison to see just how different they really are:

Natural vs Synthetic Wicker Comparison

The Bottom Line on Materials

Understanding your wicker type isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Natural wicker requires the gentle touch of someone handling antique lace. Synthetic wicker? You can practically power wash it (though we’ll show you better methods).

Look at those statistics above. Regular cleaning can extend your wicker’s life by 30%. That’s the difference between furniture that lasts 10 years versus 13 years. Worth the effort? Absolutely.

Interested in quality wicker pieces that are worth maintaining? Browse our curated collection of high-end wicker furniture.

Wicker Furniture Cleaning Supplies

Good news: You probably have 90% of what you need already sitting under your kitchen sink.

After 25 years in the furniture business, we’ve learned that the fanciest cleaning products aren’t always the best. In fact, simple household items often work better than expensive specialty cleaners.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Here’s your wicker-cleaning toolkit:

The Basics:

• Vacuum with brush attachment – Your first line of defense against dust
• Spray bottle – For controlled water application (this is KEY)
• Soft-bristled brush – An old toothbrush is perfect for tight spots
• Microfiber cloths – Gentle on fibers, tough on dirt
• Bucket – For mixing your cleaning solutions

Pro Tip: That soft brush is crucial. Hard bristles will snag and damage natural wicker fibers. We’ve seen too many beautiful pieces ruined by aggressive scrubbing.

Choosing the Right Cleaner

Forget the fancy brand names. Here’s what actually works:

For Natural Wicker:

• Mild dish soap (just a few drops!)
• Warm water
• That’s it. Seriously.

For Synthetic Wicker:

• Dish soap and water base
• Add a splash of white vinegar for tough grime
• Can handle slightly stronger solutions

DIY Cleaning Solutions That Work

Save your money and mix these yourself:

All-Purpose Wicker Cleaner:

• 3 parts water
• 1 part white vinegar
• Works on both natural and synthetic

Stubborn Stain Fighter (Synthetic Only):

• Mild bleach solution (1 tablespoon per gallon)
• Use sparingly and rinse thoroughly

Setting Up Your Workspace

Before you start scrubbing:

1. Move furniture outdoors if possible – Better ventilation and easy cleanup
2. If cleaning indoors, protect your floors – Drop cloths save the day
3. Have all supplies within reach – No dripping across the house for forgotten items
4. Open windows for ventilation – Even mild cleaners need airflow

Looking for furniture worth protecting? Explore our selection of premium used furniture brands including Drexel, Thomasville, and more.

How to Clean Natural Wicker Furniture

Natural wicker is like that delicate sweater you love—treat it wrong, and it’s ruined forever. But treat it right? It’ll last generations.

Here’s the thing: Most natural wicker damage happens during cleaning, not daily use. Follow these steps, and your furniture will thank you.

Step 1: Dusting (Your First and Best Defense)

Think of dust as wicker’s worst enemy. It settles into every crevice, attracts moisture, and eventually breaks down the fibers.

The Right Way to Dust:

• Use your vacuum’s brush attachment on LOW suction
• Work in the direction of the weave, not against it
• Pay extra attention to where pieces join
• Do this weekly (yes, really)

Why This Matters: Regular dusting means you’ll rarely need to deep clean. It’s 5 minutes now or 2 hours later.

Step 2: Washing Natural Wicker (Less Is More)

When dusting isn’t enough, here’s your game plan:

1. Mix your solution: 1 tablespoon mild dish soap per gallon of cool water
2. Dampen (don’t soak) a soft cloth
3. Wipe following the weave pattern
4. Work in small sections
5. Immediately follow with a dry cloth

Critical Rule: Natural wicker should never be soaking wet. Think “barely damp” not “wringing wet.”

Step 3: Tackling Tight Spots

Those beautiful woven patterns? They’re dust magnets. Here’s how to clean them:

• Dip a soft toothbrush in your cleaning solution
• Shake off excess (it should be barely damp)
• Use gentle, circular motions
• Focus on one small area at a time
• Dry immediately with a clean cloth

Step 4: The Drying Process (Where Most People Mess Up)

Drying is just as important as washing when it comes to wicker furniture care. Here’s how to do it right:

Immediate Steps:

1. Blot (don’t rub) with dry towels
2. Use a fan to increase air circulation
3. Keep furniture in a well-ventilated area
4. Never use heat to speed drying

Drying Timeline:

• Surface dry: 2-3 hours
• Completely dry: 24-48 hours
• Don’t use until FULLY dry

Dealing with Mildew and Deep Stains

Found some mildew? Don’t panic:

Mildew Removal:

1. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water
2. Apply with a spray bottle (light mist only)
3. Let sit for 15 minutes
4. Gently brush with soft bristles
5. Wipe clean and dry thoroughly

For Stubborn Stains:

• Make a paste: baking soda + few drops of water
• Apply to stain, wait 10 minutes
• Gently brush and wipe clean
• Always test in a hidden area first

When to Call It: Some stains aren’t worth the risk. If you’ve tried twice without success, consider professional cleaning. Better safe than sorry with valuable pieces.

How to Clean Synthetic Wicker Furniture

Now we’re talking! Synthetic wicker is the tough guy of the wicker world. You can actually clean it without walking on eggshells.

This is where you can break out the big guns (within reason). Synthetic wicker laughs at water, shrugs off mild chemicals, and can handle some serious scrubbing.

The Power of Water Resistance

Unlike its natural cousin, synthetic wicker can handle:

• Direct water spray
• Deeper cleaning solutions
• More aggressive scrubbing
• Even (careful) pressure washing

Real-World Example: Spilled red wine at last night’s dinner party? With synthetic wicker, grab the hose. Problem solved.

This ease of maintenance keeps your furniture looking its best with minimal effort.

Deep Cleaning Synthetic Wicker

When your synthetic wicker needs serious attention:

1. Rinse First: Use a garden hose to remove loose dirt
2. Mix a Strong Solution:
   • 1 gallon warm water
   • 2 tablespoons dish soap
   • 1/4 cup white vinegar
3. Scrub Away: Use a medium-bristle brush
4. Rinse Thoroughly: No soap residue left behind
5. Sun Dry: UV won’t hurt synthetic materials

Pressure Washing (Proceed With Caution)

Yes, you can pressure wash synthetic wicker, but:

Safe Pressure Washing Rules:

• Use the LOWEST pressure setting
• Hold nozzle 2+ feet away
• Use a fan tip, not a pinpoint spray
• Keep the spray moving constantly
• Test on an inconspicuous area first

Warning: Even synthetic wicker has limits. High pressure at close range will damage the weave. When in doubt, stick to hand cleaning.

Restoring Heavily Soiled Pieces

Got a piece that looks beyond hope? Try this:

The Deep Clean Method:

1. Create a cleaning station outdoors
2. Mix: 1 gallon water + 1/4 cup dish soap + 1/2 cup vinegar
3. Apply liberally with a scrub brush
4. Let it sit for 10 minutes
5. Scrub again, focusing on stained areas
6. Rinse until water runs clear
7. Allow to dry in full sun

Targeted Solutions for Specific Stains

Different stains, different strategies:

Why Synthetic Wicker Is Worth the Investment

The outdoor furniture market hit $8.5 billion in 2020 and is growing 5% annually. Why? Because quality synthetic wicker delivers:

• Minimal maintenance
• Maximum durability
• Weather resistance
• Easy cleaning

Over 70% of homeowners increased outdoor living time in recent years. Synthetic wicker makes that lifestyle sustainable.

Ready to upgrade your outdoor space? Check out our weather-resistant furniture options.

How to Remove Stains from Wicker Furniture

We’ve all been there. That stain that mocks your cleaning efforts. That mysterious spot that appeared overnight. Here’s your game plan for winning these battles.

First: Identify Your Enemy

Not all stains are created equal:

Organic Stains (food, drinks, bird droppings):

• Usually respond to natural cleaners
• Time is critical—act fast!

Inorganic Stains (rust, paint, adhesive):

• Need specialized treatment
• May require commercial products

Mystery Stains (who knows?):

• Start gentle, escalate carefully
• When in doubt, test first

Your Stain-Fighting Arsenal

Before you start, gather these proven solutions:

From Your Pantry:

• White vinegar (the miracle worker)
• Baking soda (gentle abrasive)
• Dish soap (cuts through grease)
• Salt (for fresh spills)

From Your Medicine Cabinet:

• Rubbing alcohol (sap and sticky stuff)
• Hydrogen peroxide (organic stains)

Step-by-Step Stain Removal

For Fresh Spills (The Golden Hour):

1. Blot immediately (don’t rub!)
2. Apply salt to absorb liquid
3. Vacuum up salt
4. Clean with appropriate solution
5. Dry thoroughly

For Set-In Stains:

1. Test your cleaner in a hidden spot
2. Apply cleaner to stain only
3. Let it work (5-10 minutes)
4. Gently scrub with soft brush
5. Rinse and repeat if needed
6. Always dry completely

Problem-Specific Solutions

Red Wine on Natural Wicker:

• Blot, don’t panic
• White wine neutralizes red (really!)
• Follow with vinegar solution
• May leave slight discoloration

Bird Droppings (The Patio Plague):

• Remove solids when dry
• Spray with vinegar solution
• Let sit 15 minutes
• Brush gently and rinse

Tree Sap (The Sticky Situation):

• Freeze with ice cube
• Scrape off what you can
• Rubbing alcohol on remainder
• Multiple treatments may be needed

Your Quick Reference Stain Guide

Prevention: Your Best Strategy

Smart prevention beats any cleaning method:

• Use coasters and placemats religiously
• Apply fabric protection spray to cushions
• Cover during storms
• Address spills within minutes, not hours
• Regular maintenance prevents deep stains

When to Wave the White Flag

Sometimes, professional help is the smart choice:

• Antique or valuable pieces
• Stains covering large areas
• Multiple failed cleaning attempts
• Structural damage visible
• When the piece has sentimental value

Remember: A professional cleaning costs less than replacing quality furniture. Don’t let pride cost you a treasured piece.

How to Protect Wicker Furniture

Here’s a truth bomb: 90% of wicker furniture dies from neglect, not use. But with 10 minutes of prevention, you can add years to your furniture’s life.

Think of it like this—you change your car’s oil to avoid engine failure. Same principle here.

Essential Protective Treatments

These aren’t optional if you want furniture that lasts:

UV Protection Spray:

• Prevents sun bleaching and fiber breakdown
• Apply every spring
• Costs $15, saves hundreds
• Works on both natural and synthetic

Waterproofing Treatment:

• Critical for natural wicker
• Helpful for synthetic too
• Reapply after deep cleaning
• Creates invisible moisture barrier

Application Tip: Always apply protectants to CLEAN, DRY furniture. Sealing in dirt defeats the purpose.

Your Seasonal Maintenance Calendar

Spring (The Fresh Start):

• Deep clean after winter storage
• Apply UV protection
• Check for loose weaves
• Tighten any loose hardware

Summer (The Heavy Use Season):

• Weekly dusting routine
• Rinse synthetic pieces monthly
• Quick wipe-downs after parties
• Monitor for sun damage

Fall (The Preparation):

• Final deep clean of the year
• Inspect for needed repairs
• Apply waterproofing before storage
• Document any issues for spring

Winter (The Rest Period):

• Store indoors if possible
• Use quality furniture covers
• Check stored pieces monthly
• Keep storage area dry

Storage Strategies That Work

Indoor Storage (The Gold Standard):

• Basement, garage, or spare room
• Keep off concrete floors
• Allow air circulation
• Cover to prevent dust

Outdoor Storage (When You Must):

• Invest in premium covers
• Elevate off ground
• Create windbreaks
• Check after storms

The Professional Touch

Know when DIY isn’t enough:

Call professionals for:

• Reweaving broken sections
• Structural repairs
• Antique restoration
• Deep mold remediation

DIY maintenance handles:

• Regular cleaning
• Minor tightening
• Protective treatments
• Preventive care

The Long-Term Payoff

Consider these numbers:

• Quality wicker furniture: $500-$5,000
• Annual maintenance supplies: $30-$50
• Professional cleaning: $100-$200
• Replacement cost: Priceless for vintage pieces

The math is simple. Maintenance wins every time.

Interested in furniture worth maintaining? Explore our collection of vintage Ethan Allen and other premium brands.

Wicker Furniture Maintenance Schedule

Let’s get real—you didn’t read this entire guide to let your furniture deteriorate anyway. Here’s your action plan for wicker that lasts.

Your Weekly Routine (5 Minutes Max)

Every Week:

1. Dust with vacuum brush attachment
2. Wipe high-traffic areas
3. Check for new stains
4. Address spills immediately

This simple routine prevents 80% of wicker problems. Set a phone reminder. Thank yourself later.

Your Seasonal Deep Clean Checklist

Spring & Fall (The Big Cleans):

• ☐ Remove all cushions and accessories
• ☐ Vacuum every crevice
• ☐ Wash with appropriate solution
• ☐ Check for loose weaves or damage
• ☐ Apply protective treatments
• ☐ Document any issues found

Time Investment: 2 hours twice a year saves furniture worth thousands.

Creating Your Maintenance Schedule

For Busy People:

• Weekly: Quick dust (5 minutes)
• Monthly: Wipe down (15 minutes)
• Seasonally: Deep clean (2 hours)

For Furniture Enthusiasts:

• Twice weekly: Dusting
• Bi-weekly: Full wipe down
• Monthly: Inspection and spot treatment

Red Flags That Need Immediate Action

Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs:

🚧 Mold/Mildew Growth

• Treatment needed within 48 hours
• Spreads quickly in weave

⚠️ Cracking Sounds

• Natural wicker drying out
• Needs moisture treatment

🚧 Loose Weaves 

• Structural weakness developing
• Professional repair recommended

⚠️ Persistent Odors

• Deep moisture problem
• May need full restoration

Your Prevention Toolkit

Stock These Essentials:

• Quality furniture covers ($50-$100)
• UV protection spray ($15)
• Waterproofing treatment ($20)
• Microfiber cloths ($10)
• Soft brushes ($5)

Total investment: Under $100
Furniture saved: Priceless

Making It Automatic

The secret to long-lasting wicker? Making maintenance automatic:

1. Set calendar reminders for seasonal cleaning
2. Keep supplies in one place for easy access
3. Address issues immediately before they worsen
4. Make it a family routine so everyone helps

The Bottom Line

You’ve invested in quality wicker furniture. Now invest the minimal time to keep it beautiful. With proper care:

• Natural wicker lasts 15-20 years indoors
• Synthetic wicker survives 10-15 years outdoors
• Both can outlive those estimates with exceptional care

Ready for Furniture That’s Worth the Care?

Now that you know how to properly maintain wicker furniture, why not invest in pieces that deserve your attention?

At High End Used Furniture, we hand-select only the finest pre-owned wicker and furniture pieces—the kind worth protecting and passing down. Our 25+ years of experience means we know quality when we see it.

Browse our collection of:

• Vintage Ethan Allen pieces
• Henredon heritage furniture
• Baker luxury collections

Every piece scores 8/10 or better in condition. Every piece is worthy of the care you’ve just learned to provide.

Questions about caring for a specific piece? Call us at 816-651-6155. We love talking furniture, and we’re here to help you make the most of your investment.

Because great furniture deserves great care.