Rattan: a brief history, and how to clean yours
A Brief History
It has been used for centuries in the production of furniture and home decor due to its durability, flexibility, and beauty. But although incredibly sturdy and long-lasting, it needs care and a bit of pampering every now and then. Here are three simple tips on cleaning, maintaining and making your rattan furniture and accessories last for years.
How to clean it?
- Regular Dusting: Use a soft cloth or, better yet, a feather duster to penetrate complex weaves and get rid of even the minutest dust specks.
- Use Gentle Soap. For a deeper clean, use a soft-bristled brush (like a toothbrush) and mild soapy water to gently scrub away grime and avoid excessive water to prevent soaking the wood. Always dry thoroughly after cleaning. Because rattan is a natural material, keeping it damp may lead to the growth of mould or mildew.
- Keep Away from Direct Sunlight for prolonged periods. Like most other furniture, rattan can fade under continuous, direct sunlight. Place your rattan furniture in a shaded area to prevent fading and remember to revitalise your rattan pieces once a year. We love using linseed or lemon oil applied with a soft cloth to restore their natural sheen.
