Wicker furniture can be a beautiful addition to any deck, patio, or garden.  Many shoppers however, may be surprised to learn that there are different types of wicker.  Although they look very similar, there is a big difference between synthetic and natural wicker garden furniture.
Both materials are used to create a variety of attractive pieces of furniture, including chairs, benches, rockers, footstools, and tables.  Both are available in many different colors and even in stains like wooden furniture.  Cushions and throw pillows are a good addition to these types of products because they help make them much more comfortable to use.
Synthetic wicker is beneficial in that it shows relatively no damage from wear and tear, which can be a hazard to outdoor furniture due to the weather.  It is unlikely that this material will soak up water or discolor from the rain.  Mold does not grow on this type of furniture.  Synthetic pieces can last for many years with very little maintenance.  They simply need to be dusted with a damp cloth regularly.  These pieces tend to hold color better than natural wicker, allowing them to look bright when natural pieces fade.  This type of furniture is usually very affordable as opposed to the kind made from natural or other types of materials.
Natural wicker furniture is crafted from plentiful materials that are usually found in Southeast Asia.  Rather than being crafted from wood, wicker is usually made using cane, reeds, willows, and rushes.  These materials are woven tightly to create the pieces.  Manufacturing using these materials is often better for the environment and causes less damage than the use of wood.  As long as the construction materials are grown and harvested in a sustainable manner, these products are very environmentally friendly.  Care of these pieces is quite simple, they need to be dusted or vacuumed regularly.  Dusting can be done using warm water and a mild detergent.  Spills should be cleaned up immediately because letting them set in can cause stains.  Mineral leaching such as rust can damage natural wicker and leave an ugly stain.  There is the potential for mold, which can cause a nasty smell, so these pieces should be protected from water.  This furniture can be covered in the winter and during inclement weather to help it last longer.  Covering can be done with an old blanket or tarp.  Covers are also available at stores that offer outdoor accessories.
If one is hoping to save money and acquire low maintenance, long lasting furniture, synthetic wicker is the way to go.  For those with environmental concerns, natural wicker is a better product.

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Tags: wicker garden chairs, wicker garden furniture, Wicker Outdoor Furniture, wicker outdoor tables, wicker weave furniture

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