Can Wicker Furniture Get Wet:Simple Fixes You Ca n Try

Ever thought about, ” Can wicker furniture get wet?” Yes, Wicker looks great and is comfy and helpful, but it can get ruined by water if not properly cared for.

You use wicker outdoors, unaware of how the weather can affect it, but protecting it and making it last longer takes just a few easy steps.

In this blog, I’ll explain what wicker really is, the difference between natural and synthetic types, what happens when it gets wet, and how to keep it safe in rain, snow, or humid air.

Read on to find smart tips that can be helpful and avoid costly damage.

Understanding Wicker Furniture

Wicker isn’t a kind of material. It’s a way of making furniture by twisting thin pieces of stuff like rattan, bamboo, or plastic into shapes.

People have made wicker things for thousands of years. It’s light, strong, and can be shaped in lots of ways.

You’ve probably seen chairs or baskets made this way. They’re tough but still look cool and simple.

Natural vs Synthetic Wicker: What’s the Difference?

Natural wicker is made from plant fibers and needs dry spaces. Synthetic wicker is plastic-based, made for outdoor use, and handles weather better. Each has different care needs and durability.

Here’s a quick table to help you compare natural and synthetic wicker. It shows the main differences in a simple way.

Feature	Natural Wicker	Synthetic Wicker
Material Source	Real plant materials (e.g., rattan, bamboo)	Man-made (usually plastic or resin)
Look and Feel	Warm, earthy, natural texture	Similar look, but smoother and more uniform
Durability Outdoors	Poor — can rot, fade, or break down in rain or sun	Excellent resists weather, moisture, and sun
Maintenance	Needs more care — keep dry, clean gently	Easy wipe down, doesn’t need much care
Best Use	Indoors or covered outdoor spaces	Patios, gardens, or any outdoor space
Cost	Usually higher due to natural material	Often lower and budget-friendly
Eco-Friendliness	Biodegradable and natural	Not biodegradable, but lasts longer

Can Wicker Furniture Get Wet?

Yes, wicker furniture can get wet, but whether it’s okay or not depends on the type.

Natural wicker is made from plant fibers like rattan or bamboo. These materials soak up water easily. When wet, natural wicker becomes soft and weak.

If it stays damp too long, it can grow mold or mildew and may start to crack or sag over time.

Synthetic wicker, made from plastic materials, handles moisture better. It’s designed for outdoor use and won’t soak up water like natural types.

But even synthetic wicker isn’t waterproof. If it stays wet for days, especially in humid weather, mold can grow on the surface. Over time, too much sun and water can still cause fading or wear.

How to Keep Wicker Safe from Water

Use covers when it rains.
Dry it off after wet weather.
Place it in a shaded or sheltered spot.
Clean it regularly to stop mold or dirt from building up.

So yes, wicker can get wet, but it depends on the type and how you take care of it. With the right protection, even outdoor wicker can last a long time.

What Happens When Wicker Furniture Gets Wet?

Natural wicker is made from plant fibers. It soaks up water fast, leading to mold, stains, and rotting. Over time, it can lose shape and break down. It’s best kept indoors or in dry, covered areas.

Synthetic wicker is made from plastic materials. It resists water, dries fast, and holds up well outdoors. It’s easy to clean and doesn’t mold or fade easily, making it a better choice for wet or sunny areas

How Rain, Snow, and Humidity Affect Wicker Furniture

Rain

Rain soaks into natural wicker quickly. Since it’s made from plant fibers, it acts like a sponge. Wet wicker can become soft, weak, and stained.

Over time, this leads to mold, mildew, and even rotting. If left out in the rain often, the furniture may lose its shape or fall apart.

Snow

Snow is even more harmful. It melts slowly, keeping the furniture wet for longer. This gives moisture more time to sink in and cause damage.

The cold and damp mix can lead to cracking, soft spots, and mold growth. Wicker left in the snow will wear out much faster.

Humidity

Humidity can cause trouble. Moisture in the air slowly enters the wicker, especially in warm or closed-off spaces.

Over time, this can lead to bending, peeling, or tiny cracks. It may not show up right away, but damage builds with time.

Why Climate Matters

In wet regions, like those with lots of rain or damp air, natural wicker should stay indoors or under cover. Even synthetic types benefit from protection during heavy rain or storms.

In dry, sunny places, you won’t deal with much moisture. But constant sun can dry out furniture, make it brittle, or cause fading. Shade and UV-protective covers help reduce that risk.

Winter Storage Tips for Wicker Furniture

Keep your wicker safe during cold months with these simple storage tips. Winter can cause damage if you’re not careful.

Bring it indoors: Use a shed or garage.
Clean and dry: Wipe it down before storing.
Keep it dry: Don’t store it when it’s wet.
Use covers: Pick waterproof, breathable covers.
Lift it up: Raise legs off the wet ground.
Store cushions inside: Keep them dry and clean.
Avoid plastic wrap: It traps moisture.
Check sometimes: Make sure it stays dry.
Label parts: Keep screws or cushions together.
Prep early: Don’t wait for snow.

How to Protect Wicker Furniture from Water Damage

Wicker can get damaged by water over time. Here’s how to keep it safe, dry, and looking good year-round.

Waterproofing Wicker: The Easy Way

Protecting your wicker furniture from water damage is simple and helps it last longer, especially if it’s made from natural materials like rattan or bamboo. Here’s a quick guide to do it right:

Step 1: Clean the Surface