The answer to whether you can keep wicker chairs outdoor is both yes and no. Wicker is often grouped together with other types of patio furniture, like other types of wood, resin and metal, but has a different set of needs than these materials.
Besides that, wicker is all-around more delicate than other kinds of chairs. Outdoor elements can be especially harsh, so ideally wicker lasts the longest when kept indoors or in a sunroom, but it can go outside for limited amounts of time with the right care. Here are some tips for both indoor and outdoor chairs.
First note that there are different kinds of wicker and some are heartier than others. For example, one type of wicker called paper wicker should never get even the slightest bit wet or it will fall apart. However, nowadays you can also find wicker replicas made out of resin. They're better for outdoor use but lack the elegant charm of real wicker.
To keep them clean, you should regularly dust wicker chairs. Outdoor dust and grime can more easily get stuck in all of the many crevices, more so than with other furniture. In addition to a duster, you can also use a small brush or hand vacuum to get in the harder to reach spots.
For spills, try and wipe them off right after they occur to avoid the liquid setting into the wicker fibers. By then, it will be much more difficult to clean. Use a damp sponge to wipe the area. If you do encounter a dried stain, use soap and warm water but don't over-saturate the chairs.
Outdoor furniture is sturdier and so can be clean using a number of different cleaners, but as wicker is more fragile, stay away from harsh solvents, cleaners and power sprayers, all of which can damage the fibers.
The biggest failing of wicker is that while it enjoys humidity it doesn't like prolonged moisture, so take care with chairs. Outdoor elements are hard to control, and in addition to the usual moisture, like rain showers, you will also need to take into account things like dew.
Try and wipe off any moisture on furniture as it accrues, and it keep it under specially designed outdoor furniture tarps overnight or for long periods of bad weather. On the other hand, if the weather is especially hot and dry, this dries out the wicker fibers and can cause chairs to creak or even crack under the pressure. If you live in an arid climate, you may want to regularly wipe chairs outdoor with a damp sponge.
Once a year, at the beginning of the season when you take your chairs outdoor, check to the condition of the finish. If the varnish is peeling, you will need to recoat the entire piece. Doing so will protect the wood in addition to giving it a glossy finish.
If, on the other hand your wicker chairs are painted, you may need to add another coat. You can use special spray on paints that are better for coating all surfaces and crevices. After that you may opt for a thin coat of liquid furniture on top of your finish to add to the overall gloss of your furniture.
Author Resource:-
Todd Arend is a freelance writing professional whose expertise covers a variety of areas, including patio and backyard furniture, landscaping and design. He regularly writes about Chairs Outdoor and Modern Outdoor Chairs.
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