How to Clean Wicker Furniture (Step-by-Step Guide)

Wicker furniture brings natural beauty, warmth, and texture to your home and outdoor spaces. Whether you have a cosy indoor rattan armchair, a wicker dining set on the patio, or a woven storage basket in the hallway, proper cleaning is key to preserving both its appearance and strength.

Over time, dust, pollen, food crumbs, and even mould can settle into the weave. If left unchecked, this can cause discolouration, unpleasant odours, and even damage to the fibres. Cleaning wicker may seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, it’s simple and effective, and you don’t need harsh chemicals or specialised equipment.

This step-by-step guide is tailored for Australian conditions, taking into account the effects of our climate on both natural and synthetic wicker. By following these methods, you can restore your furniture’s look and protect it for years to come.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Gathering your supplies before you start will make the process smoother and faster.

You’ll need:

• • Soft-bristle brush or vacuum with a brush attachment – for dusting the weave without snagging.
• • Mild dish soap (pH-neutral) – gentle on finishes and safe for most wicker materials.
  
• • Bucket of warm water – the base for your cleaning solution.
  
• • Soft cloth or sponge – for wiping surfaces without scratching.
  
• • Old toothbrush or soft scrubbing brush – perfect for getting into tight crevices.
  
• • White vinegar – a natural solution for mould and stubborn grime.
  
• • Dry towels or microfibre cloths – for blotting moisture before air-drying.
  
• • Optional extras: gloves, a mask (for heavy dust or mould), UV protectant spray, or boiled linseed oil for conditioning natural wicker.
  

How to Clean Wicker Furniture – Step-by-Step

Step 1 – Remove Cushions & Dust Off Debris

Start by removing all cushions, seat pads, and fabric covers from your furniture. If they’re washable, follow the care instructions and wash them separately. This prevents moisture from getting trapped during the cleaning process.

Using a soft brush or your vacuum’s brush attachment, gently dust the entire surface of the wicker. Work with the weave to remove dust, dirt, cobwebs, and loose debris. Pay attention to corners, undersides, and crevices where dirt tends to collect.

For outdoor furniture, you can also use a gentle leaf blower to quickly dislodge loose debris. This is especially helpful before a more thorough wash, as it prevents dirt from turning into mud when wet.

Step 2 – Prepare a Mild Soap Solution

Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Swish it around until you have a light, bubbly mixture. The goal is to create a gentle cleaning solution, too much soap can leave residue, and harsh cleaners can strip finishes or weaken fibres.

If you’re cleaning outdoor furniture that’s been exposed to the elements, add a splash of white vinegar to the mix. Vinegar is excellent for cutting through grime and helps prevent mould growth, which can be a problem in humid or coastal areas of Australia.

Step 3 – Wipe Down the Wicker Gently

Dip your soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water, then wring it out thoroughly so it’s just damp. Excess water can seep into natural wicker, causing it to swell, warp, or even grow mould inside the fibres.

Work along the direction of the weave, wiping each section carefully. For stubborn dirt caught in the crevices, dip an old toothbrush into the solution and gently scrub the affected areas. This allows you to target dirt without damaging the weave.

If your wicker is natural rattan, be extra cautious with moisture, light, and repeated passes are better than soaking.

Step 4 – Tackle Stubborn Grime and Mould

If you notice mould spots or heavily soiled areas, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the affected areas and let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen the grime and kill mould spores.

After the waiting time, use your soft brush or toothbrush to scrub gently. Once the dirt lifts, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any vinegar residue.

For synthetic wicker only, you may use a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) for persistent mould or mildew. However, bleach can cause discolouration and weaken natural fibres, so avoid it entirely on organic materials.

Step 5 – Rinse Off Soap Residue

Soap residue can attract more dirt, so it’s important to rinse it away.

For indoor wicker or natural rattan, wipe the furniture with a clean cloth dampened in fresh water. Be sure to wring the cloth well to avoid excess moisture.

For synthetic wicker, you can use a garden hose on a gentle spray setting to rinse the entire piece. Avoid high-pressure nozzles, as they can damage the weave or frame.

Step 6 – Dry Properly

Moisture left in the weave is the quickest way to invite mould and shorten the life of your wicker furniture. After cleaning, use dry towels to blot away as much moisture as possible.

Then place the furniture in a shaded, well-ventilated area to air-dry completely. Direct sunlight on wet natural wicker can cause fibres to dry too quickly and become brittle, so always keep it in shade while drying.

If you’re short on time, set up a fan nearby to speed up the drying process. Just make sure the furniture is 100% dry before storing it or replacing cushions.

Step 7 – Protect and Finish (Optional)

Adding a protective finish can extend the life of your wicker:

• • Natural wicker: Once the piece is fully dry, apply a light coat of diluted boiled linseed oil to condition and nourish the fibres. Wipe away any excess oil with a clean cloth to avoid a sticky finish.
  
• • Synthetic wicker: Spray with a UV protectant designed for outdoor furniture to reduce fading and brittleness from the sun.
  

Special Considerations for Different Wicker Types

• • Natural wicker (rattan, cane, bamboo): These organic fibres are more delicate and susceptible to water damage. Always keep moisture to a minimum, dry thoroughly, and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure unless under cover.
  
• • Synthetic wicker (resin, PE): More resilient to moisture and sunlight. It can handle light hosing and mild bleach (for mould) but still benefits from UV protection.
  
• • Painted or varnished wicker: Clean gently to avoid chipping. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the finish.
  

Post-Cleaning Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance reduces the need for deep cleaning and helps preserve the beauty of your wicker:

• • Dust or vacuum regularly, every few weeks for indoor furniture, and monthly for outdoor.
  
• • Perform seasonal deep cleans, ideally after summer and winter.
  
• • Use outdoor furniture covers to protect pieces from weather and UV exposure.
  
• • Keep furniture in shaded or covered areas to minimise sun damage.
  
• • Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains and moisture damage.
  

For more long-term care strategies, see our ultimate guide to maintaining wicker furniture.

Conclusion

Cleaning wicker furniture doesn’t need to be complicated. By removing dust regularly, using gentle cleaning methods, and ensuring pieces are fully dry before use, you can keep both natural and synthetic wicker in excellent condition.

In Australia’s varied climate, whether you’re by the coast, in a humid region, or dealing with dry heat, these steps will help preserve your furniture’s look and durability. With just a little seasonal care, your wicker can remain a timeless and practical part of your home for many years to come.

Ready to keep your space looking beautiful year-round? Explore Bay Gallery’s wicker furniture collection, including outdoor wicker sofas and lounges, outdoor wicker coffee tables, sun lounges, and more,  crafted for lasting style, comfort, and durability.