Wicker Or Rattan – Which Is Better For Outdoor Furniture?

We’ve observed individuals delving into research, seeking to compare and gather information to ascertain the superior choice for outdoor furniture between wicker and rattan.

Wicker and rattan furniture boast a timeless appeal, seamlessly fitting into various styles and themes, be it classic or contemporary. Their robustness enables them to endure outdoor elements effectively.

Now, the question arises: which of these options would enhance the aesthetics of your patio? Let’s conduct a brief comparison to assist you in reaching a well-informed decision.

A Comparison Of Wicker And Rattan

You might be familiar with the adage, “Some things are better left in the past”, which applies to numerous elements that have lost relevance in the present context. However, it also suggests that certain things are worth preserving, like furniture from the 1970s crafted from rattan and wicker.

To an untrained eye, it wouldn’t be surprising if someone mistook wicker and rattan for being identical. The reality is that both types of furniture involve weaving, and for many buyers, that might be the only consideration. Nevertheless, there exist several distinctions between these two that are as follows:

To begin, “wicker” refers to a weaving technique, whereas “rattan” is a material used to make furniture. Rattan, like many other synthetic and natural materials, can be woven wicker-style. That is often the source of the initial confusion and what leads people to believe they can only choose one or the other. The truth is that you can get a wicker-woven rattan if that’s what you want.

However, the terms should not be used interchangeably. This is because furniture woven using the wicker method may not be rattan. It could be made of a variety of materials, including bamboo, cane, and other suitable materials, but it would still be considered wicker due to its construction.

Wicker furniture construction has been around for quite some time. Despite only gaining popularity in the 1970s, the process was common in ancient Egypt. It was even claimed that the method was used to create a well-known Pharaoh’s chair. That is quite a story.

Natural Rattan And Synthetic Wicker

In the realm of debate, the terms “synthetic” and “natural” often find themselves at opposing ends. Yet, when it comes to the wicker-weaving style, these contrasting elements both excel, offering exceptional attributes. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, they can excel in terms of beauty and uniqueness.

Conversely, there’s natural rattan which is advisable to avoid using outdoors. Similar to other natural elements, natural rattan is susceptible to the elements so it’s best to minimize its exposure to outdoor conditions. If outdoor use is inevitable, ensure suitable weather or provide adequate cover to prevent damage.

Next, let’s delve into synthetic wicker, also referred to as resin wicker. Typically composed of resin designed to emulate the look and feel of natural wicker, this type stands out for its high resistance to heat and moisture.

Many outdoor products leverage high-quality synthetic wickers to replicate vintage furniture designs. Not only are they exceptionally durable with minimal maintenance requirements, but they can also be crafted to resemble natural rattan, resulting in a classic piece with a modern twist that is easy to clean.

Maintenance Of Rattan And Wicker

Let’s move on to the maintenance tips now that we’ve covered some major differences between rattan and wicker. How should these woven materials be cared for?

When not in use, bring them inside

Regardless of their durability, items woven with wicker are not entirely impervious to weather conditions. The degradation process may vary, with some items taking months and others years. Nevertheless, exposure to the elements will ultimately contribute to their deterioration.

Whether your furniture is crafted from natural or synthetic materials, it’s essential to maintain a cool and dry environment. If you have a synthetic wicker chair or sofa that you prefer not to bring indoors daily, ensure it is either covered or placed on a sheltered patio.

Never allow dust to collect

Like most woven materials, wicker also allows dust to settle in its numerous nooks and crevices. Outdoor furniture, in particular, is more prone to dust and debris. The key is to keep wiping your wicker furniture from time to time. But better if they are thoroughly wiped out regularly.

The Final Choice

An outdoor patio furniture piece crafted with synthetic rattan and woven in wicker style stands out as the top choice. The crucial factor in making a wise selection between rattan and wicker isn’t about choosing one over the other. Rather, the decision should revolve around determining whether natural or synthetic materials are preferable. This consideration simplifies the decision-making process in the end.