When it comes to outdoor furniture, homeowners have a wide selection of different materials to choose from. However, synthetic wicker has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance requirements.
If you’re looking for new outdoor furniture and are considering synthetic wicker, we’ll be covering everything you need to know about this material option. From what it’s made of to the benefits of using it in your yard and how it compares to other materials, you’ll be ready to start shopping with confidence.
Materials Used for Synthetic Wicker Outdoor Furniture
Synthetic wicker is made from a variety of materials, but the most common ones include polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PE is the most popular choice due to its durability and resistance to fading, cracking, and moisture. PU is more flexible and has a softer feel, while PVC is less expensive but less durable.
Benefits of Using Synthetic Wicker
Synthetic wicker furniture has numerous advantages that make it a popular choice for many homeowners. These include:
Durability
Synthetic wicker is highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions without fading or cracking. This means that it can be left outside all year round without the need for extra maintenance.
Low Maintenance
Unlike natural wood wicker, synthetic wicker furniture requires very little maintenance and occasional cleaning to keep it looking fresh and new. It can easily be wiped down with a damp cloth or hosed down to remove dirt and debris.
Aesthetic Versatility
Thirdly, synthetic wicker is highly versatile and can be molded into various shapes and styles. This makes it easy to find outdoor furniture that fits your taste and preferences and can be used in a variety of outdoor spaces. Its texture also creates a visually interesting contrast with any cushions or pillows that you want to place on it.
Cost-Effective
Lastly, but definitely an important benefit, synthetic wicker is cost-effective compared to other outdoor furniture materials like teak or wrought iron. It provides a stylish and durable alternative at a fraction of the cost. Thanks to less manual labor needed to produce a quality finished piece, these savings are passed onto the buyer.
How to Clean and Maintain Synthetic Wicker
Cleaning synthetic wicker is relatively easy and only requires a few steps. By following this process, you can keep your furniture in pristine condition and will only have to do this on an infrequent or as-needed basis.
Start by removing any cushions or pillows and using a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any dirt or debris from the outer surface of the furniture. You can then use a mild soap solution and warm water to clean with.
Once you have cleaned the furniture, you should rinse it down with a hose to remove any soap residue. To protect the furniture from the sun, you can also apply a UV-resistant spray once it has dried.
If you live in an area that experiences cold temperatures and snowfall, you can also consider storing these pieces in a shed or garage during the off-season. This will help prevent any unnecessary damage when the furniture is not in use.
Choosing the Right Synthetic Wicker Outdoor Furniture
When choosing synthetic wicker outdoor furniture, there are several factors to account for prior to selecting the pieces you ultimately want to add to your yard.
First, you should choose a color and style that complements your outdoor space. Neutral colors like beige, grey, or white tend to be popular choices that can easily blend in with different decor styles. An added benefit is that they will not clash with the colors of nature in your yard like greens and browns.
Second, comfort and functionality are also significant considerations. Look for furniture with cushions that are thick, comfortable, and have a sturdy frame that can support weight while still being light enough to move and rearrange.
Thirdly, size and space limitations can have a major impact on your preferred outdoor furniture. Measure the available space while keeping the number of people you need to seat in mind. Account for the shape of the furniture and whether it will fit in the intended space.
Comparing Synthetic Wicker with Other Materials
If you’re still weighing your options between multiple types of material, you might be wondering how they compare. Here’s how synthetic wicker contrasts with natural wicker, metal, wood, and plastic:
Natural wicker: While similar in appearance, natural wicker is less durable and requires more maintenance. It is also more susceptible to moisture, which can cause it to rot or become brittle over time.
Metal: Metal outdoor furniture is highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, it can rust over time if not properly cared for. Additionally, metal furniture tends to be heavier and more difficult to move around.
Wood: Wood furniture is a popular choice due to its natural look and durability. It requires more maintenance than synthetic wicker and can often cost more. Like natural wicker, wood furniture can also be susceptible to warping or cracking over time, especially if not properly treated or covered during extreme weather conditions.
Plastic: Plastic options are highly affordable and come in a variety of colors and styles, but they have a less natural appearance than the other materials above. Though these aspects could sound appealing on the surface, it is not as durable as other materials and can fade or crack over time with exposure to the elements.
Get Beautiful Synthetic Wicker Furniture for Your Yard
Synthetic wicker outdoor furniture is a great choice for homeowners looking for durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective outdoor furniture. With the right care and maintenance, it can last for many years and provide a stylish and comfortable outdoor space.
At Amini’s Furniture, we supply residents of Missouri, Oklahoma, and Kansas with a beautiful range of meticulously curated outdoor furniture from the nation’s leading brands so that you can enjoy your time outdoors in luxurious comfort. To get started, browse our synthetic wicker selections or visit one of our four stores near you to see them in person.
We have outdoor and game room furniture that will transform your space into the destination entertainment spot you deserve. Serving, the Edmond OK, Kansas City MO, Oklahoma City OK, St. Louis MO, and Tulsa OK areas.