How to Care for Rattan Furniture & Homewares — The Complete Guide

Rattan is one of the most versatile and enduring materials in interior and exterior design. Lightweight, durable, and naturally beautiful, rattan furniture and homewares bring warmth and texture to any space — from coastal living rooms to commercial hospitality venues. But like all natural materials, rattan requires a little care to keep it looking its best. This guide covers everything you need to know about cleaning, protecting, and maintaining your rattan pieces for years to come.

What Is Rattan — and Why Does It Need Special Care?

Rattan is a naturally occurring palm that is harvested, steamed, and bent into shape to create furniture, baskets, lighting, and decorative homewares. Because it is a natural material, rattan is sensitive to prolonged moisture, extreme heat, and harsh cleaning products. Understanding how to care for rattan correctly will prevent cracking, warping, and discolouration — and keep your pieces in beautiful condition long-term.

Everyday Cleaning — How to Clean Rattan Furniture

Regular, light cleaning is the key to maintaining rattan. Dust and debris can accumulate quickly in the weave, so a weekly wipe-down goes a long way.

For everyday cleaning:

• Use a soft-bristled brush or dry microfibre cloth to remove surface dust from the weave
• For light dirt, dampen a cloth with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap, wipe gently, then dry immediately with a clean towel
• A soft toothbrush or paintbrush is ideal for getting into the crevices of tightly woven rattan
• Always dry rattan thoroughly after any wet cleaning — never leave it damp

What to avoid on rattan:

• Soaking rattan with water or leaving it wet — this causes warping and cracking
• Harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, or ammonia-based products
• Abrasive cloths or scouring pads that can damage the weave
• Steam cleaners — the heat and moisture can weaken rattan fibres

How to Remove Stains from Rattan

Act quickly when spills occur. Blot — never rub — the spill with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible before it soaks into the fibres.

For stubborn stains:

• General stains — mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water, apply with a soft cloth, wipe gently, and dry immediately
• Mould or mildew — mix one part white vinegar with two parts water and apply sparingly with a soft cloth. Dry the piece thoroughly in a well-ventilated area or in indirect sunlight
• Grease or oil stains — apply a small amount of baking soda to the area, leave for a few minutes to absorb, then brush away gently with a soft brush

Indoor vs Outdoor Rattan — What's the Difference?

Not all rattan is suited for outdoor use. Natural rattan is best kept indoors or in covered, sheltered areas, as prolonged exposure to rain and direct sunlight can cause it to crack, fade, and deteriorate quickly. Synthetic rattan — often labelled as resin wicker or PE rattan — is specifically designed for outdoor environments and is far more weather-resistant.

For indoor rattan:

• Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and drying out
• Avoid placing near heaters, air conditioning vents, or fireplaces
• Maintain a consistent humidity level — rattan thrives in moderate humidity and can crack in very dry environments

For outdoor or synthetic rattan:

• Clean with a mild soap solution and rinse with a gentle hose — allow to dry fully before use
• Cover or store indoors during extended periods of rain or harsh weather
• Apply a UV-protective spray annually to prevent fading from sun exposure

How to Prevent Rattan from Cracking

Cracking is the most common issue with natural rattan and is almost always caused by the material drying out. To prevent this:

• Lightly dampen rattan occasionally with a fine mist of water to maintain moisture — particularly in dry climates or during summer
• Apply a thin coat of linseed oil or rattan-specific conditioning oil once or twice a year to keep the fibres supple
• Avoid placing rattan in direct sunlight or near heat sources for extended periods
• Use cushions and seat pads to distribute weight evenly and reduce stress on the weave

Protecting Rattan — Sealing and Finishing

Applying a protective sealant or lacquer to natural rattan can significantly extend its life and make it easier to clean. A clear polyurethane or rattan lacquer spray creates a light barrier against moisture and everyday wear without changing the appearance of the piece.

• Clean and dry the rattan thoroughly before applying any sealant
• Apply in a well-ventilated area using light, even coats
• Allow to dry fully between coats and before use
• Reapply annually or when the surface begins to look dry or dull

Long-Term Rattan Care Tips

• Rotate rattan furniture periodically to ensure even exposure to light and wear
• Use furniture pads or felt protectors under legs to prevent floor scratching and moisture absorption from the ground
• Store rattan pieces in a cool, dry place during extended periods of non-use
• Repair loose or broken strands early — small repairs prevent larger structural damage. Use rattan repair kits available from specialist stores, or consult a furniture repair professional
• Avoid sitting on or placing heavy objects on rattan in ways that stress single points of the weave

When to Seek Professional Repair

Minor wear is normal with natural rattan, but structural damage — broken frames, significant unravelling, or deep cracking — is best addressed by a professional furniture restorer. Attempting DIY repairs on structural damage can sometimes worsen the problem. A professional can re-weave damaged sections and re-coat the piece to restore it to its original condition.

Shop Our Rattan Collection

Looking to add rattan pieces to your home, retail store, or commercial project? Explore our curated collection of rattan furniture, lighting, and homewares — designed to bring warmth, texture, and timeless style to any space. Trade accounts welcome.