How to Care for Vintage Wicker Furniture

Well-cared-for wicker furniture can last several lifetimes -- and if your wicker furniture is vintage, proper care is vital to keep it in good shape. There are several types of wicker, as the word refers to the weave, not the material. With the exception of paper wicker, which is especially fragile and not water resistant, most types of wicker can be cleaned and maintained in the same way.

Soft synthetic scrub brush
Nail brush
Toothbrush
Vacuum cleaner
Vacuum brush attachment
Sponge
Bucket
Mild dish soap
Towels
Bleach

Instructions

- 1
  Keep your vintage wicker furniture indoors or on a covered porch away from direct sunlight to prevent it from fading and becoming brittle.
- 2
  Vacuum the furniture regularly, using a hose with a brush attachment. If there is a lot of dust or dirt built up on the furniture, brush it with a soft scrub brush, nail brush, and a toothbrush to loosen the dirt before you vacuum.
- 3
  Wash the wicker a couple of times a year with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Use a soft sponge to get the soapy water into the weave, but don't let it sit for more than a few minutes. Rinse the wicker well with a garden hose, and dry it with towels. Then allow the furniture to air-dry for a day or two.
- 4
  Remove mildew from wicker furniture by scrubbing it with a solution of 3/4 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of water. Rinse the wicker thoroughly with a hose, dry it with towels, and allow it to dry for several days before you use it.

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