Wicker furniture: the good and the bad

If you thought wicker was a natural fiber, you’re not alone. You are also quite wrong. Wicker refers to the style of weaving materials around a frame to make furniture. This technique has been around for a long time. Even the ancient Egyptians used this style to make baskets out of reeds and grass. So, wicker is not a type of material. However, since weaving requires foldable material, wicker furniture is generally made from natural fibers such as bamboo and rattan, and over time, wicker became synonymous with natural fiber. These days, however, stunning wicker furniture is also available in various synthetic materials.

Wicker has carved a niche for himself due to his distinctive style. The interlocking weave is intricate yet strong. Since wicker lacks rigidity, it requires a strong framework for the trellis. Good quality wicker furniture uses materials such as wood, aluminum or stainless steel. For inexpensive furniture, rattan or bamboo frames can be used. High-quality wicker furniture is usually made from treated wood and rattan.

Wicker furniture is generally made from natural materials. However, materials such as rattan and wood can rot or deteriorate. Natural material is exposed to attack by parasites such as termites. Therefore, the untreated natural material does not last long. By using synthetic materials like metal wires and frames like plastic, steel, wrought iron, and aluminum, you can ensure that your furniture will last forever while maintaining the natural good looks of wicker. Synthetic fibers can be made from hydrocarbons and have several advantages over natural fibers.

Wicker furniture made from synthetic materials comes in a variety of colors. Therefore, you do not have to limit yourself to brown shades. Since the colors are embedded in the material, rough handling won’t leave scratches or cause the color to peel. The color does not fade even when the furniture is exposed to long hours of sun. Being synthetic, the material is immune to parasite attack.

Wicker furniture is lightweight. Therefore, they can be easily moved. At the same time, they are resistant due to the technique used to weave the material. Therefore, they can easily bear a lot of weight even though they are lightweight.

Since natural wicker furniture is usually placed outdoors, it is important to take good care of it to ensure a long life. You may need to put them away during rain showers or during intense heat. Synthetic materials do not need much maintenance. They can simply be cleaned. In case of heavy stains or dirt, they can even be washed.

The cost factor also adds to the appeal of this piece of furniture. Wicker costs less than most other types of outdoor furniture and does not compromise the look or elegance of the furniture at all.

The only downside to wicker furniture is that it is prone to attracting dust in the little nooks and crannies between the layers. However, since it is easy to wash off the dust, this is easily fixed.