How Do You Rejuvenate Outdoor Wicker Furniture?
Outdoor wicker furniture is a popular choice for many homeowners because of its classic style and durability. However, over time, the elements can take their toll on the furniture and it can start to look worn and faded. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to rejuvenate your outdoor wicker furniture and restore its original beauty.
Clean the Furniture
The first step in restoring outdoor wicker furniture is to give it a thorough cleaning. Use a mild detergent mixed with warm water and gently scrub away any dirt or dust from the surface of the furniture.
It’s important to use a soft bristled brush or sponge so that you don’t damage the delicate fibers of the wicker. Once you’ve finished cleaning, let it dry in direct sunlight for at least an hour before continuing with any other restorative processes.
Remove Mildew or Mold
If your outdoor wicker furniture has been exposed to moisture for an extended period of time, it may have developed mildew or mold. To remove these spots, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray down the affected areas.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush or sponge. Rinse off the area with clean water when you’re finished, then let it air dry in direct sunlight for another hour before proceeding with any other restorative processes.
Refinish or Repaint
Once your outdoor wicker furniture is clean and dry, you may need to refinish or repaint it if it has become discolored due to sun exposure or just normal wear and tear over time. If refinishing is necessary, choose an appropriate stain that matches the color of your existing wicker as closely as possible. If painting is necessary, use a paint specifically designed for outdoor use that will adhere well to wicker surfaces and won’t be damaged by rain or UV rays from the sun.
Conditioning
Finally, once your outdoor wicker furniture has been cleaned, treated for mildew or mold if necessary, and refinished or repainted as needed, you should condition it regularly with a high-quality oil specifically designed for outdoor use on wicker surfaces such as teak oil or linseed oil. This will help protect against fading as well as keep your furniture looking its best year after year.
Conclusion:
Restoring outdoor wicker furniture doesn’t have to be difficult – simply give it a thorough cleaning using mild detergent mixed with warm water; treat any mildew/mold spots; refinish/repaint if needed; and condition regularly using an appropriate oil designed for outdoor use on wicker surfaces – and your furniture will be good as new!
