How Durable Is Rattan vs. Wicker for Outdoor Use? - Plant Care Guide

When considering rattan vs. wicker for outdoor use, it's important to clarify a common misconception: wicker is a weaving style, not a material, while rattan is a natural material. Therefore, the question isn't a direct comparison of two materials, but rather how the wicker weaving style, using either natural rattan or synthetic materials, performs outdoors. For true outdoor durability and weather resistance, all-weather wicker (made from synthetic fibers like polyethylene or vinyl, woven over a rust-resistant frame) is vastly superior to furniture made from natural rattan woven in the wicker style. Natural rattan furniture is generally best suited for covered outdoor areas or indoor use, as it quickly deteriorates when exposed to the elements.

What is rattan and what is wicker?

To properly compare rattan vs. wicker for outdoor use, it's essential to understand their distinct definitions. This is where most of the confusion arises.

Rattan:

• Definition: Rattan is a natural material. It refers to approximately 600 species of climbing palms native to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It grows in vine-like structures, and once harvested, the long, solid stems are used to make furniture frames or are split into individual strands for weaving.
• Characteristics:
  • Natural Material: It's a type of wood or woody vine.
  • Solid Core: Unlike bamboo, rattan has a solid core, making it strong and flexible.
  • Versatility: It can be bent and shaped when heated, making it ideal for creating intricate furniture frames and designs. The outer skin (cane) can also be peeled off and used for weaving or binding.
  • Aesthetic: Offers a natural, organic, and often tropical aesthetic.
• Outdoor Use Suitability: Natural rattan is generally NOT suitable for prolonged outdoor use when exposed to the elements. It is susceptible to moisture, UV damage, and temperature fluctuations, which can lead to cracking, rotting, mildew, fading, and insect infestation. It's best for indoor or very well-covered outdoor spaces (like a sunroom or screened porch).

Wicker:

• Definition: Wicker is a centuries-old weaving technique or style, not a material itself. It involves weaving natural or synthetic pliable strands (like rattan, willow, bamboo, paper fiber, or polyethylene) around a frame to create furniture, baskets, or other items.
• Characteristics:
  • Technique: The term describes how something is made, not what it's made from.
  • Appearance: Furniture made with the wicker weave typically has a distinctive textured, woven look.
  • Variability: The durability and outdoor suitability of wicker furniture depend entirely on the material used for the weave and the frame.

The Clarification for Outdoor Use:

When people talk about "wicker" furniture for outdoor use, they are almost always referring to "all-weather wicker" or "resin wicker." This is a synthetic material (typically made from high-density polyethylene - HDPE) that is specifically designed to mimic the look of natural rattan and wicker but with vastly superior weather resistance. It is woven over a durable, rust-resistant frame (usually aluminum).

Therefore, when comparing rattan vs. wicker for outdoor use, you're essentially comparing natural rattan (poor for outdoor exposure) against all-weather wicker (excellent for outdoor exposure).

What are the durability challenges of natural rattan outdoors?

Natural rattan, despite its beauty and strength for indoor furniture, faces significant durability challenges when exposed to the outdoor elements, making it generally unsuitable for prolonged outdoor use. Its organic nature makes it vulnerable to environmental stressors that cause rapid deterioration.

1. Moisture Absorption and Damage:
   • Swelling and Shrinking: Rattan is a natural woody material that readily absorbs moisture from rain, dew, and high humidity. As it gets wet and then dries out, it undergoes cycles of swelling and shrinking. This repeated expansion and contraction puts immense stress on the fibers, leading to cracking, splitting, and weakening of the weave and frame over time.
   • Rot and Decay: Prolonged dampness and standing water create ideal conditions for fungal growth, leading to rot and decay. Once rattan begins to rot, its structural integrity is severely compromised, and it will eventually crumble.
   • Mildew and Mold: High humidity and damp conditions also promote the growth of mildew and mold on the surface of the rattan, causing unsightly black or green spots and an unpleasant odor.
2. UV Degradation (Sun Damage):
   • Fading: Constant exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays breaks down the natural pigments and fibers in rattan, causing it to fade drastically, lose its original color, and become dull.
   • Brittleness: UV damage also dries out the rattan, making it brittle and prone to snapping or breaking with use. The weave can become fragile and unravel.
3. Insect Infestation: As a natural wood product, rattan is susceptible to various insect infestations, including wood borers, termites, or other pests that thrive in damp or deteriorating natural materials.
4. Temperature Extremes: Rapid or extreme temperature changes, especially cycles of freezing and thawing while wet, can exacerbate cracking and structural breakdown in natural rattan.
5. Lack of Weatherproof Coatings: Unlike synthetic materials or treated wood, natural rattan furniture is often sold with minimal or no weatherproof coatings suitable for direct outdoor exposure. While some may have a light lacquer, it's typically for indoor protection.

Because of these significant vulnerabilities, natural rattan outdoor furniture is best reserved for completely covered outdoor areas like a sunroom, screened porch, or a patio with a full, impermeable roof. For true all-weather outdoor use, synthetic alternatives are vastly superior in durability.

Why is all-weather wicker more durable for outdoor use than natural rattan?

All-weather wicker (also known as resin wicker or synthetic wicker) is significantly more durable and weather-resistant for outdoor use than natural rattan because it is engineered specifically to overcome the vulnerabilities of natural materials to the elements.

Here's why all-weather wicker is superior for outdoor durability:

1. Material Composition:
   • All-weather wicker is typically made from synthetic fibers, most commonly high-density polyethylene (HDPE), but also sometimes PVC or nylon. These plastics are specifically formulated for outdoor use.
   • Natural Rattan, on the other hand, is an organic, woody vine material.
2. Impervious to Moisture:
   • HDPE fibers are non-porous and do not absorb water. This is the biggest advantage over natural rattan. They won't swell, shrink, crack, or unravel due to rain, humidity, or dew. This effectively prevents rot and decay.
   • Natural rattan readily absorbs moisture, leading to swelling, shrinking, cracking, and eventually rot and mildew.
3. UV Resistance:
   • High-quality all-weather wicker is infused with UV inhibitors during the manufacturing process. These inhibitors protect the material from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, preventing it from fading, becoming brittle, or cracking over prolonged sun exposure.
   • Natural rattan quickly fades, dries out, and becomes brittle when exposed to UV light.
4. Resistant to Mildew and Mold:
   • Because all-weather wicker does not absorb moisture, it is highly resistant to the growth of mildew and mold. Any surface mildew can usually be easily wiped off.
   • Natural rattan is very prone to mildew and mold in damp, humid conditions.
5. Pest and Insect Proof:
   • As a synthetic material, all-weather wicker is completely unappealing to insects and pests that might otherwise bore into or infest natural wood products.
   • Natural rattan can be susceptible to insect infestation.
6. Robust Internal Frame:
   • All-weather wicker is woven over a sturdy internal frame, typically powder-coated aluminum. Aluminum is naturally rust-resistant and lightweight, providing a durable and stable core that won't corrode, unlike steel frames that can rust.
   • Natural rattan frames are made from rattan itself, which is vulnerable to the elements.
7. Easy Maintenance:
   • All-weather wicker is very low maintenance. It simply needs occasional cleaning with soap and water and drying.
   • Natural rattan requires frequent cleaning, often special products to deal with mildew, and ideally needs to be moved indoors or covered during inclement weather.

In summary, all-weather wicker is designed from the ground up to be a robust, weather-resistant solution for outdoor use, directly addressing every weakness inherent in natural rattan, making it the far superior choice for outdoor durability.

What kind of maintenance does all-weather wicker furniture need?

One of the significant advantages of all-weather wicker outdoor furniture is its relatively low maintenance requirements compared to natural materials like rattan or wood. Its inherent weather resistance reduces the need for complex protective treatments.

Here's the kind of maintenance all-weather wicker furniture needs:

1. Regular Cleaning:
   • Frequency: Clean your all-weather wicker periodically, especially after pollen season, if visible dirt accumulates, or after use. More frequent cleaning is beneficial in dusty or coastal areas.
   • Method: Use a soft cloth, sponge, or soft-bristled brush with mild soap (like dish soap) and water. Gently scrub the woven surfaces to remove dirt and grime.
   • Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water using a hose (avoid high-pressure washers, which can damage the weave or finish).
   • Dry Completely: Allow the furniture to air dry completely. Since the material is non-porous, it dries quickly. Ensure no water collects in crevices.
2. Addressing Mold or Mildew (if present):
   • While highly resistant, in very damp or humid conditions, mold or mildew can sometimes form on the surface of the all-weather wicker (not in the material).
   • Method: Use a solution of 1 part household bleach to 4 parts water (or a commercial outdoor furniture cleaner for mildew) with a soft brush. Scrub the affected areas, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and let dry completely in the sun.
3. Frame Inspection:
   • Aluminum Frames: Since most all-weather wicker is woven over powder-coated aluminum frames, these are generally rust-resistant. Inspect occasionally for any scratches or chips in the powder coating that might expose the aluminum. Touch up if desired, though aluminum won't rust.
   • Steel Frames (Less Common for Quality All-Weather Wicker): If your furniture has a steel frame, inspect it more frequently for any signs of rust, especially at joints or where the powder coating may have chipped. Touch up immediately with rust-inhibiting paint if you find any.
4. Cushion Care:
   • Remove and Store: Always remove cushions when not in use, especially before rain or for long-term storage, and store them in a dry, covered space (like an outdoor deck storage box).
   • Clean: Most outdoor cushion covers are removable and machine washable. Follow care instructions carefully to maintain UV resistance and water repellency.
   • Dry Completely: Ensure cushions are completely dry before storing to prevent mildew.
5. Seasonal Storage or Covering (Optional, but Recommended for Longevity):
   • While all-weather wicker is designed for all seasons, covering your furniture with a breathable outdoor furniture cover (Outdoor Wicker Furniture Cover) during prolonged periods of heavy rain, snow, or intense UV exposure can further extend its lifespan and maintain its aesthetic appeal. It also keeps it clean.
   • Bringing it into a shed or garage for the harshest winter months is also an option for ultimate protection.

In essence, all-weather wicker furniture is a remarkably low-maintenance choice for outdoor use, primarily requiring routine cleaning and mindful cushion care to remain durable and beautiful for many years.

Can all-weather wicker be left outside all year?

Yes, all-weather wicker furniture can absolutely be left outside all year in most climates without significant deterioration, making it one of the most convenient and durable choices for outdoor use. This is its defining advantage over natural rattan and many other outdoor materials.

Here's why all-weather wicker is suited for all seasons:

1. Superior Weather Resistance: High-quality all-weather wicker is specifically engineered for continuous outdoor exposure. It's typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is:
   • Impervious to Moisture: It does not absorb water, preventing rot, swelling, shrinking, and mildew growth that plague natural materials like rattan or wood.
   • UV Resistant: Infused with UV inhibitors to protect against the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, preventing fading, cracking, or becoming brittle.
   • Temperature Tolerant: It can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from freezing cold to intense heat, without cracking or becoming distorted.
2. Rust-Resistant Frame: The synthetic fibers are woven over a sturdy internal frame, which is almost always powder-coated aluminum. Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant and will not rust, even if the powder coating is scratched, ensuring the structural integrity of the furniture remains intact in all weather. This eliminates the rust concern associated with steel frames or natural cast iron.
3. Low Maintenance: Its inherent resistance means you don't need to perform complex seasonal treatments like oiling, sealing, or sanding. Regular cleaning is generally sufficient.

Considerations for All-Season Exposure (to maximize longevity):

• Quality Matters: While many products claim to be "all-weather," the quality of the HDPE and the UV inhibitors can vary. Investing in higher-quality all-weather wicker ensures better long-term performance and less fading/brittleness.
• Remove Cushions: Even the best outdoor fabrics will last longer if cushions are removed and stored in a dry, enclosed space (like an outdoor deck storage box) when not in use or during harsh weather. This prevents mildew and fading of the fabric.
• Optional Covering: While not strictly necessary for protection against damage, using a breathable outdoor furniture cover (Outdoor Wicker Furniture Cover) during extended periods of heavy rain, snow, or intense UV exposure (especially during the off-season) can help keep the furniture cleaner and further extend its aesthetic life, preserving its "new" look.
• Cleanliness: Regularly cleaning the furniture to remove dirt, pollen, and debris will prevent accumulation that could foster mildew in damp conditions.

In conclusion, for those seeking outdoor furniture that offers the woven wicker aesthetic without the concerns of natural materials, all-weather wicker is an excellent and truly durable choice that can be confidently left outside all year with minimal fuss.

How does resin wicker furniture resist fading?

Resin wicker furniture (often synonymous with all-weather wicker) resists fading primarily due to the specific type of plastic it's made from and the addition of UV inhibitors during its manufacturing process. This sets it apart from natural materials that easily fade under sunlight.

Here's a breakdown of how it achieves UV resistance:

1. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) as the Base Material:
   • Most high-quality resin wicker is made from HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). HDPE is a thermoplastic polymer known for its strength, toughness, and resistance to chemicals and moisture.
   • Crucially, unlike lower-grade plastics (like PVC, which can become brittle and chalky with UV exposure), HDPE is inherently more stable against UV degradation.
2. Integrated UV Inhibitors:
   • The primary mechanism for fading resistance comes from UV inhibitors (also known as UV stabilizers or UV protective additives) that are mixed directly into the HDPE resin before the wicker strands are extruded. These are not just surface coatings.
   • These inhibitors absorb or block harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, preventing it from breaking down the chemical bonds within the plastic material that cause color degradation and brittleness. It's like built-in sunscreen for the plastic.
   • Higher quality resin wicker typically contains a higher concentration or more advanced types of UV inhibitors, which directly correlates to its ability to resist fading and remain structurally sound for longer periods when exposed to intense sunlight.
3. Color Pigments:
   • The color pigments used in high-quality all-weather wicker are also specially formulated to be UV-stable. They are usually deeply infused throughout the entire strand, rather than just being a surface coating. This means that even if there's minor surface wear, the color remains consistent throughout the material.
4. Density and Thickness:
   • The density and thickness of the individual resin wicker strands also contribute. Thicker, more substantial strands offer more material for the UV inhibitors to protect, making them more resilient to degradation over time.

What Can Still Cause Fading (and how to mitigate):

• Lower Quality Materials: Cheap resin wicker may use less effective UV inhibitors or thinner materials, leading to faster fading and brittleness. Always look for "HDPE" and explicit mention of UV resistance.
• Extreme, Prolonged Exposure: Even the best UV-resistant materials can eventually show some signs of fading after many, many years (a decade or more) of continuous exposure to harsh, unfiltered UV light in extreme climates.
• Dirt and Mildew: While not true fading, surface dirt, pollen, or mildew can make all-weather wicker look dull or discolored. Regular cleaning helps maintain its vibrant appearance.
• Solution: Using an outdoor furniture cover (Outdoor Wicker Furniture Cover) during peak sun hours or the off-season can significantly extend the life of the UV protection and keep the furniture looking new for longer.

In essence, resin wicker furniture's ability to resist fading is a testament to advanced plastic engineering, particularly the strategic incorporation of UV inhibitors directly into the material, making it a truly durable and color-stable choice for outdoor use.