Rattan and wicker furniture care in a humid coastal home
Natural rattan and wicker furniture can mould, sag and crack on the Costa del Sol. How to clean it, dry it and protect it through the damp winter months.
· 2 min read
Natural or synthetic: check first
Natural rattan and wicker are plant fibres, so they absorb moisture and can grow mould in damp weeks. Synthetic resin wicker, common on terraces, is far more forgiving and can take water. Before you clean anything, find out which you own: natural fibre feels slightly fibrous and light, resin feels smooth and uniform.
If you are unsure, test any method on a hidden spot first, such as the underside of a seat.
Dry cleaning comes first
Dust collects in every weave. Start with a vacuum and a soft brush attachment, then go over the gaps with a soft paintbrush or an old toothbrush. This removes most of the grime without adding any water.
Water is the enemy of natural fibre, so keep the cloth barely damp.
Washing without soaking
For natural rattan, wipe with a cloth wrung out in lukewarm water with a few drops of mild soap, working along the weave. Rinse with a second clean, barely damp cloth and dry straight away with a towel.
Resin wicker can be washed more freely with soapy water and a soft brush, then rinsed and left to dry fully. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals on both types: they dry out and discolour the fibre.
Moisture, mould and winter
Damp is the real risk on the coast. Keep natural furniture away from walls that sweat, windows with condensation and unventilated corners, and leave a little space behind it so air can move.
If you see grey or black spots, wipe them with a cloth lightly dampened with diluted white vinegar, dry well and move the piece to a drier, ventilated spot. Heavy infestation may mean the piece needs professional attention. Do not leave natural rattan on an open terrace all winter.
Sun, shape and everyday care
Strong sun makes natural fibre brittle and fades it, so avoid placing pieces against a south-facing window all day. A fine coat of clear furniture wax or varnish, applied thinly on dry fibre, helps protect it.
Lift rather than drag furniture, and cushion seating to spread the weight, since a sagging seat is hard to repair. If you have a villa full of woven pieces and would rather leave the detail to someone else, Lavanda can include it in a regular clean.
