How to Care for Rattan Furniture

Rattan furniture is stylish unique handcrafted statement pieces that invite soft, elegant neutral colours and subtle tropical textures into your home and outdoor living space.

The rattan plant is a wood textured vine that is closely related to tropical palms; it grows naturally into a cane of 1 to 3 inches diameter thick, which is harvested and cut into lengths with a strong core and steamed to shape into curves by skilled rattan artisans. The outer skin of the vine is peeled off to create flexible lengths which are used to bind the furniture joints together. When consciously harvested the rattan pieces are eco-friendly, lightweight, and made to last. With regular cleaning, protection from harsh environmental elements, general care, and maintenance, your rattan furniture will last for years to come.

When it comes to rattan care, prevention is always better than cure. If you do happen to scratch your rattan furniture, then we have the perfect fix for you!

We've created a Rattan Carekit that contains everything you need to ensure your furniture can be revitalised and last for many years to come. Grab the kit here. 

In addition to using the Rattan Carekit, we share our top tips on how to care for your unique and timeless rattan furniture piece below.

Avoid exposure to harsh direct outdoor elements such as direct harsh sunlight, rain, and high moisture/humid environment as these will reduce its lifespan. Due to the natural properties of Rattan, it can become faded, brittle, and develop cracks when placed in direct harsh sunlight. In wet, high moisture and humid environments, mildew/mould may develop and create the ideal environment for wood burrowing bugs such as the Bostrichid Powderpost Beetle. 

Immediately wipe and clean all spills (incl. water) with a damp cloth. Thoroughly wipe dry immediately after cleaning. If the cane is still wet or oversaturated, if possible, place it to dry outdoors in the sun, or alternatively a dry warm sunny spot. Rattan is naturally porous, any spills left uncleaned may soak into the wood and leave behind a stain within the cane.

Regularly wipe and dust with a soft cloth and vacuum with the soft brush attachment in nooks and crevices to remove hidden dust or cobwebs. Furniture polish is not recommended but can be used very sparingly if you choose. Do not use any chemicals such as paint thinners, chemical wood cleaner, etc to clean rattan furniture.

Regularly rotate your rattan furniture if it receives uneven sunlight exposure. Due to the natural properties of the rattan cane, with sun exposure some fading will occur. By rotating the rattan piece every few weeks, it will evenly distribute the natural fading. 

Humidify or de-humidify the space when needed. Rattan prefers a balanced level of humidity. Extended exposure to severe dryness/heat can warp and dry out the rattan cane and will require more regular and frequent oiling. Extended exposure to excessive moisture can encourage mildew/mould growth and pest attack.

Oil your rattan furniture regularly. We recommend oiling every 12 months. Using a soft cloth sparingly apply a thin layer of tung or linseed oil onto the rattan cane. After application, use a clean soft dry cloth to wipe away any excess oil. In a dry heat or frequent sun exposure position, apply the oil as soon as the rattan starts to appear dull or brittle.