All About Types of Wicker Furniture

Garden furniture comes in a variety of styles and materials, and is typically made from wicker, plastic, or metal. There are pros and cons to each type of material. Wicker furniture, also known as rattan, is one of the most common and has the following features to consider before your purchase:

•It is the most comfortable.
•It is cheaper than metal, and comparable with plastic.
•It is lightweight.
•It is aesthetically beautiful.
•It is usually made from 100% natural materials.
•It can be used indoors and outdoors, and looks good in either setting.
•It is less durable than metal or plastic.

Furniture covers are especially important to maintaining wicker garden furniture, as excessive heat and moisture can severely damage wicker pieces over time. Furniture covers typically come in vinyl or polyester. Vinyl covers are tougher, cheaper, and easier to clean; but are less attractive, and tend to be heavy. Polyester covers are more lightweight and breathable, as well as being more attractive.

While it does require additional attention, outdoor wicker furniture is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with hot water and a mild amount of bleach can help prevent mildew buildups, which can be unsightly and bad for the furniture. Too much direct sunlight can also be bad for wicker, so keeping your wicker pieces in the shade whenever possible will also help prolong their lifespan. Occasional re-varnishing will also keep the furniture looking brand new. Don’t ever use a solvent.

Plastic furniture is also lightweight, durable, and cheap, but suffers from a number of serious drawbacks. It can be very uncomfortable, especially compared to wicker. It is also the least aesthetically pleasing type of outdoor furniture, and is virtually useless indoors. In contrast, wicker garden furniture is exceptionally comfortable, and comes in a variety of styles suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Metal garden furniture can be very comfortable and durable, but these advantages come at a price. It is far more expensive than wicker garden furniture, with most outdoor sets easily exceeding $1,000. Metal is also very heavy, and can get uncomfortably hot during the summer months. Purchasing cushions for the seat and backrest is an option. This also provides at “splash of color”.

If you’re looking for different varieties of wicker furniture, consider buying bamboo or resin-coated wicker pieces. These are more durable and slightly heavier than traditional rattan, but are primarily intended for outdoor use. These materials are less expensive and can be eco friendly, and are usually made in the Far East and many times in developing nations.

Wicker garden furniture is great at creating a relaxed, casual atmosphere regardless of where you use it. With many styles and designs available, a couple pieces of wicker can add a touch of class your sunroom, patio, or pool area without breaking the budget. If you’re looking for flexible, lightweight, stylish furniture that requires minimal care, wicker is a great investment.

You can’t make a wrong decision if you love the style and it goes with your lifestyle!