Wicker attracts dirt and dust that stick inside its luster in the event you do not clean it on a regular basis. While not all of wicker is created of exactly the same material, lots of wicker items are made from natural plant fibers or paper, so a soak in water or a rinse with the hose are out of the question. Cleaning with mostly dry methods, or just a small amount of dampness, is your best method of attack for organic wicker fibers.
Regular Dry-Method Maintenance
Keeping the wicker dust-free — if it’s a small basket or a large coffee table — not just makes it seem nice, but helps stop caked-on dirt and debris that are much harder to remove. A feather duster offers a bit gentle enough to clean wicker without harm to the fibers. The upholstery brush onto a vacuum cleaner helps remove debris out of the crevices in the weaves; to get a delicate basket or delicate classic, maintain the vacuum cleaner from the slice slightly, employing a soft-bristled paintbrush or makeup brush to loosen dust.
Moisture-Based Maintenance
If the wicker seems dirty even after you have dusted, dip a soft cloth into a bucket of water with a squirt of dish soap mixed in. Wring out most of the water to avoid soaking the wicker, which might harm or warp the fibers. Wipe the entire piece down completely, then wipe again with a new cloth dipped in clean water. Dry off the piece as completely as possible, then let it air dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated area. This is particularly important for furniture, as sitting on dampened wicker produced from organic substances can stretch the fibers and distort the shape.
Mildew Control
A musty odor, particularly when paired with tiny specks on the wicker fibers, suggests mold or mould, which occurs when wicker is stored in a damp atmosphere. A combination of 1-part white vinegar with 3-parts water obliterates mold and mildew; dip a soft cloth to the solution, then wipe the spots down completely. A toothbrush helps wash off the spots that are most troublesome. Wipe the freshly cleaned areas down again with a damp cloth, then permit the wicker to air dry thoroughly.
Artificial Outside Wicker
Synthetic wicker, located on furniture and decoration, is made from materials such as polyethylene or polyurethane. This type of wicker can withstand a spray out of the hose, so it may be washed a bit more harshly than other wicker substances. After cleaning using a feather duster or vacuuming, wipe the wicker down with a soft cloth dipped in a bucket of warm water with a few squirts of dish soap. Rinse with a hose, then dry with towel or a soft cloth.