How to Clean Rattan Furniture?

Effective products for cleaning rattan furniture

Obtained from a climbing plant native to Southeast Asia, rattan is an entirely natural and environmentally friendly material. Indeed, to design rattan furniture, it is unnecessary to cut down a tree or carry out deforestation since the material is obtained from the cutting of natural fibers.

Undeniably aesthetic, rattan blends into any decor in the house. He brings his little touch of exoticism to make the interior or exterior space a right corner of paradise. Besides being ecological and aesthetic, the rattan is also very resistant and relatively durable. However, the only downside is its lightness and fragility, which can be explained by the materials used. The fibers soften quickly, especially when exposed to moisture for a long time. It should indeed be specified that this furniture is fragile.

If maintenance is the best solution to guarantee rattan furnishings’ longevity, it is crucial to prevent the risk of deterioration by careful and periodic cleaning. For this, it is essential to have the right products. Here is the list of recommended detergents:

• The warm soapy water  
• A mixture of one liter of lukewarm water and 4 spoons of baking soda 
• A mixture of water and alkaline detergent for varnished  furniture 
• A detergent diluted in water.
• A mixture of cold water and hydrogen peroxide for cleaning rattan untinted.

It should be noted that the products to be used are different depending on the nature of the stain you wish to remove and the condition of your rattan furniture.

• For blackened furniture,  the ammonia diluted or lemon juice can do the trick.
• On the other hand, it is advisable for those who lose their shine to use a mixture composed of a tablespoon of essential oil or turpentine and a glass of linseed oil. In addition to cleaning, this solution helps to regain the radiance of cane rattan. As a reminder, sponges and abrasive products are banned at the risk of damaging the clothing material.  

How to dust off rattan furniture?

For rattan furnishings in perfect condition, the use of detergents is unnecessary. It is enough to regularly dust the visible surface of the furniture with a  vacuum cleaner. The device quickly removes dust that invades the surface while having access to the parts between the fibers.

How to polish rattan furniture?

When the weather arrives, the terrace or balcony are the ideal places to sip a cocktail with friends or have lunch with the family. The rattan can be clogged with food stains or other forms of impurities.

Resistant but light, rattan furniture is susceptible to impurities and other attacks. Only correct and regular cleaning contributes to the durability and preservation of the aesthetics of the material.

Cleaning with warm soapy water, followed by rinsing with cold water, is the first step to take. If this method does not work, other tricks will still be possible:

• Mix four tablespoons of baking soda or lemon juice in one liter of warm water. Soak the sponge in the solution to clean the furniture. Rinse with clear water once the cleaning process is complete. Dry in the open air and never expose to the sun.
• Mix the water and detergent, then stir to get bubbles. Carefully lay the cloth over so that the bubbles soak into the cleaning tool. Use the damp cloth to rub the surface of the rattan furniture. A small tip to access difficult access areas: soak a toothbrush in the solution and polish the knuckles and the cracks.
• Mix cold water and hydrogen peroxide. Pour a small amount of the solution on a sponge to clean the rattan furniture. It should be noted that this tip is not suitable for tinted rattan furniture. Indeed, it may discolor it.

Maintain a varnished rattan furniture

• Pour alkaline detergent into a bucket of water.
• Soak the sponge or soft cloth with the solution
• Use it to clean furniture.

Clean a stubborn stain on a varnished and tarnished rattan furniture

• Rub with  sandpaper  
• Clean up using the usual cleaning procedures.

Wash moldy rattan furniture

• Dilute  ammonia  in water
• Soak the cloth in the solution
• Clean the musty stain.

It should be noted that the rattan is rot-proof. Thus, it is not very afraid of humidity, unlike other furniture coverings. However, neglect of maintenance and prolonged exposure in a wet area can encourage the appearance of mold.

Trash tarnished rattan

• Mix a  tablespoon of turpentine  and a  glass of linseed oil  
• Dip the cloth in the solution
• Rub the furniture with the mixture to make the rattan shine.

Rattan furniture maintenance

After spending time cleaning and shining the rattan furniture, it would be a shame to let the dirt dominate the furnishings’ surface once again. Since natural fibers are already sensitive and light, it is better not to wait for them to tarnish and dry out. When squeaks are heard, it means that the rattan is wasting away.  

Thus, it is highly recommended to wax the furniture. Every two months, check the condition of the natural fibers and maintain them if necessary. Regular vacuum cleaning should also be observed. To  remedy the creaking  of rattan furniture, here are the steps to take:

• In a container, mix hot water, half a glass of linseed oil, and a tablespoon of turpentine
• Impregnate the sponge with the solution obtained
• Clean the furniture
• Rinse off with water.