When it comes to buying outdoor furniture, homeowners may be understandably confused when they hear the terms “wicker” and “rattan.” While both words are associated with a woven, natural look, these increasingly popular furniture terms aren’t as interchangeable as you might initially think.
By understanding what these terms actually mean and how they can play a role in your outdoor decor, you’ll have a much easier time putting together a desirable look that will serve your family well for many years to come.
What is a Wicker Weave?
First things first, wicker is not a material. Instead, this term describes a particular style of weave. People have used wicker weaves for baskets and furniture since at least 3,000 B.C., when ancient Egyptians utilized this design.
In ancient times, people primarily used reeds and other swamp grasses for wicker weaves. This design style spread to Europe during the continents exploratory phase, and then gained another resurgence of popularity in mid-19th century as part of the Arts and Crafts movement in Britain, which had a focus on nature as a source of inspiration and emphasizing the beauty of the materials employed in construction.
To create wicker furniture, artisans often use the same material to form both the support structure and the weave that holds it all together. They weave strands of material together to create a rigid frame that can vary in appearance — from a simple cross-stitch-style weave to more elaborate weaves with more twists and interlocking elements.
Artisans use materials like natural rattan, bamboo, willow, and synthetic fibers to make wicker furniture. The right material can vary based on your local climate and how you plan to use the furniture.
What is Rattan?
Rattan is one of the most popular materials that is used for wicker furniture, which is why rattan and wicker are so often confused to be the same thing. Rattan is a tropical climbing palm with roughly 600 subspecies found in tropical areas of Africa and Southeast Asia.
Multiple parts of rattan are used to make furniture. For wicker weaves, artisans peel off the skin from a rattan strand. These peeled strips, also known as cane, can then be woven for use in a variety of products, including a webbing that can be used for chair seats or ornamental accents on other furniture pieces.
The inner core offers greater structural strength for furniture, but artisans can also split it into thinner strips for creating wicker furniture. Artisans generally use larger pieces to create the frame for the furniture. They typically use wider weaves for furniture, while smaller rattan weaves serve for baskets and other items that don’t require as much structural strength. However, many modern furniture items that use rattan will only use rattan for the chair webbing so that so that they can use materials like aluminum for the legs and frame.
Rattan’s introduction to Europe played a large role in the explosion of wicker furniture’s popularity. It is lightweight, durable, flexible, and easy to work with, though it does require significant skill to create wicker furniture.
What’s the Difference Between Rattan and Synthetic Wicker?
When shopping for wicker furniture today, you’ll typically choose between products crafted from natural rattan and those crafted from synthetic wicker. Understanding the differences between these materials can help you make the best choice for your home and lifestyle.
Natural Rattan Furniture
Retailers often market natural rattan furniture as “natural wicker furniture.” You can easily clean rattan cane with a soft cloth. For more intensive cleaning, you can use a damp washcloth or brush with mild detergent to remove spills or other contaminants.
When furniture uses the rattan skin, you generally don’t have to worry much about water damage. However, if you purchase a piece crafted entirely from natural rattan, you should take extra precautions to protect it from moisture and environmental hazards. The rattan core is quite porous, making it vulnerable to water damage and more susceptible to fading from sunlight.
To preserve all-rattan pieces:
- Indoor Storage: Store them indoors when not in use.
- Protective Coating: Apply a weather-resistant coating to outdoor furniture to help it withstand the elements.
- Cover Up: Use furniture covers to shield them from moisture and UV rays.
Synthetic Wicker Furniture
Manufacturers typically mold high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to mimic the look, strength, and flexibility of natural rattan. Artisans weave this material onto an aluminum frame in a manner similar to natural wicker. Synthetic wicker can replicate the appearance of natural rattan or come in a variety of colors.
Benefits of synthetic wicker include:
- Durability: Extremely resistant to weather-related fading and deterioration, including water and UV damage.
- Easy Maintenance: Clean with a soft brush and mild detergent, then rinse with clean water to remove any residue.
- Versatility: Available in various styles and colors to suit different aesthetics.
While synthetic materials offer superior environmental resistance, it’s still advisable to:
- Use Furniture Covers: Provide additional protection when the furniture won’t be used for extended periods.
- Choose Quality Materials: Opt for HDPE over cheaper alternatives like vinyl, which can peel and reveal non-matching interior layers and may not imitate natural rattan as effectively.
Making Your Choice
Your decision between natural rattan and synthetic wicker will depend on several factors:
- Aesthetic Preference: If you value authenticity and natural materials, rattan might be your choice.
- Maintenance and Durability: For low maintenance and high durability, especially in outdoor settings, synthetic wicker is advantageous.
- Environmental Conditions: Consider the climate and exposure your furniture will face.
By understanding the characteristics of each material, you can select wicker furniture that best meets your needs and complements your living space.
Find the Outdoor Furniture You Need at Kitchen & Bath Authority
Regardless of which outdoor furniture style you ultimately prefer, you’ll find the perfect match right here at Kitchen & Bath Authority. With a wide selection of synthetic wicker and natural rattan furniture products, it’s easy to find the furniture that best matches your unique preferences, whether you’re looking for a full-size conversation set or smaller patio sets.
Take advantage of our discounted prices, exclusive membership deals, free shipping, and live chat support. It’s the perfect time to find the right furniture to turn your backyard into an oasis.
