The term wicker is a catch-all for many types of natural vines, grasses, or plants that are woven into a myriad of forms like furniture, baskets, and decorative items like screens, blinds, and rugs. Rattan, willow, reed, and bamboo are all types of wicker.
Wicker is most often woven (like willow baskets), stacked flat and stitched (like bamboo blinds and reed placemats), woven and wrapped around a wood structure or armature (like wicker trunks and furniture), or steamed and bent around wooden armatures to form decorative furniture of all kinds. Decorative weaving can produce wicker of various materials, and many are stained to create unique patterns and motifs.
Wicker is available in a range of quality and prices and some items are more fragile than others. Sturdy, well-built willow pieces with a strong wooden armature and tight, lacquered weaving can withstand considerable use and spirited cleaning efforts. A fragile, inexpensive reed blind might not appreciate vigorous scrubbing and will fray if treated roughly. You must decide how much your pieces can withstand.
It is best to examine wicker carefully before cleaning to avoid damage. Reweave loosened bits of material, and trim ragged areas to avoid catching your cleaning cloth or brush that could cause further tearing. If a reed is broken, a dab of wood glue will go a long way to secure it and prevent more breakage. If repairs are done, be sure to wait a day after applying any glue before cleaning your wicker.
Beyond weekly care like dusting or removing light surface dirt or spills with a damp cloth, wicker benefits from periodic cleaning with a vacuum cleaner. Use the soft, long-bristle brush dusting tool. Next, prepare a small bucket of sudsy water (any mild detergent will do) and, with a sponge or soft scrub brush, work the suds into the crevices of the wicker, then dry with a soft towel. In the case of wicker furniture, be sure to turn chairs and tables over and vacuum any cobwebs and dust that might have accumulated underneath. Sponge-clean the wicker on the underside, taking care not to soak any wood or structural parts.
Once a year, I like to take my wicker pieces out on my deck and give them a thorough spray-down. A grassy lawn, driveway, pavement, bathtub or shower (for smaller items) will also do. After dusting indoors thoroughly with the vacuum attachment, set the wicker pieces outdoors and spray down all surfaces, including the underside, with your garden hose. Dry as quickly as possible with a large, thirsty towel and move to a dry, sunny spot. A windy day is perfect for cleaning wicker, as it will dry faster. To avoid stretching, do not sit on or use the item before it is completely dry.
You might be reluctant to use water to clean wicker, but dry heat from a furnace or woodstove and long periods of direct sunlight can do much more damage. An occasional bath rejuvenates the wicker and will help prolong its life.
Many wicker items are bought in the “raw” form, but they are much easier to clean if they are treated with a coat of shellac, lacquer, varnish, or polyurethane. You can also stain wicker to match your décor. Be sure to wait a few days before pressing your piece into service.
Wicker brings texture and beauty into any home or office. Proper care will ensure a long and useful life.
