What To Look For When Buying Outdoor Wicker Patio Furniture

So you're thinking about buying some wicker patio furniture for your outdoor sanctuary. There are many brands to choose from of varying quality and construction. Depending on what you are looking for, there are a number of things that you should pay close attention to before making your purchase.

Tightness of the Weave

One of the most important things that you should pay attention to when purchasing outdoor wicker patio furniture is the tightness of the weave. As you most likely already know, one of the attractive characteristics of wicker furniture is its ability to bend and form to the body of the person sitting on it. However, if the weave of the wicker furniture is too loose, the natural bending of the material can lead to a broken wicker chair. So the trick is to choose a piece of wicker patio furniture that has a tight enough weave to withstand the heaviest person.

Quality of the Reeds

Individual reeds that make up the piece of your wicker patio furniture are another aspect that any careful consumer should inspect before purchasing. The individual reeds should be pliable and somewhat shiny, with no breaks or tears. Damage to the individual reeds on a piece of outdoor wicker furniture can lead to major discomfort for you and your guests.

Quality of Paint Finish

Another thing to consider when purchasing outdoor wicker patio furniture is the quality of the paint or staining that is on the furniture. The paint or staining should not have any discoloration, and the coat should be dry and smooth to the touch. In addition, wicker patio furniture should not have any paint or stain odor associated with it.

Make Sure it's Weatherproof

Just like your outdoor patio, your wicker furniture needs regular upkeep and protection. One of the easiest ways to protect your newly bought patio furniture is to treat it with a weatherproofing solution specifically designed for wicker furniture. The best choice can most likely be recommended by your sales professional.

Of course, sooner or later your patio furniture will need to be cleaned. Many people try to accomplish this by washing it with soap and water and later squirting the furniture with a garden hose. This might be an effective way to get the dirt off of your wicker furniture, but it is also a very effective way to encourage mold growth. Instead, the easiest and perhaps safest way is to use a damp cloth followed by a dry cloth to dry off your wicker furniture. This will help ensure that you will enjoy your wicker patio furniture for years to come.