Caring for rattan furniture starts with understanding the material's natural fibrous structure. Even if real rattan and synthetic rattan look the same, their care needs are completely different. Natural rattan is affected by light, humidity, water and physical stress; used correctly, it can keep its shape and texture for years.
In this guide we answer the questions how to clean natural rattan, whether rattan furniture can be used on a balcony, how to prevent mould, whether rattan should be oiled and how to store it, with technical sources.
First, tell them apart: natural or synthetic rattan?
Natural rattan comes from the long, flexible stems of climbing palms that grow in tropical Asia. “Cane” usually refers to the thin strips taken from rattan's outer skin. The Canadian Conservation Institute describes cane and rattan among the natural plant materials used in furniture seats, backs and woven structures.
Synthetic rattan or poly-rattan is a plastic-based weave. Its rain and UV performance depends on the polymer it is made from; it is not a plant fibre that takes up and releases moisture like natural rattan.
Why does natural rattan need different care?
Rattan is a long, fibrous and flexible plant tissue. This structure makes it valuable for weaving and handwork, but it can also become brittle in very dry conditions and face a higher mould risk in high humidity and prolonged wetness.
The Canadian Conservation Institute notes that light, humidity fluctuations, water, dust and physical stress are the main causes of deterioration in woven plant materials.
How do you clean rattan furniture?
- Clean it dry first. Loosen the dust between the weave with a soft brush.
- You can use a vacuum on low suction. A brush head and low suction help collect dust without pulling the weave.
- If needed, use a very lightly damp cloth. Wring the cloth well; do not soak the surface.
- Test a small hidden area first. Check for colour transfer, especially on painted or coloured rattan.
- Let it dry in an airy place. Do not cover a wet surface or put it right next to a heat source.
Dipping natural rattan in water or hosing it down is not a good routine care method. The CCI also notes that over-wetting plant weaves can lead to uneven swelling and shrinking.
Can rattan furniture be used on a balcony?
Yes, covered balconies, verandas and shaded terraces in particular are suitable for natural rattan. An open balcony that gets constant rain and direct sun all day is more demanding for natural rattan.
Direct sun can cause colour change and, over time, brittleness in natural fibres. So if you will use rattan outdoors, it is better to place it in a sheltered area.
Rattan's two enemies: excessive dryness and constant humidity
Excessive dryness
Rattan right next to a radiator, fireplace, stove or strong flow of hot air can become brittle faster. But the solution is not to oil the furniture constantly. The best approach is to keep it away from very hot, dry microclimates.
Constant high humidity
High humidity and slow drying increase the risk of mould. Dust building up between the weave can become a problem when combined with moisture. If rattan gets wet, dry it as quickly as possible with natural air circulation.
The Canadian Conservation Institute notes that very high relative humidity can encourage mould growth on woven plant materials, while very low humidity and fluctuations can increase the risk of brittleness and mechanical stress.
What should you do if mould appears?
Mould is a living biological growth; first the cause must be solved. Move the furniture to a drier, airier area. Once the surface is completely dry, clean off loose residue with a soft brush and controlled vacuuming.
It is not right to recommend vinegar, bleach or random chemical recipes for every rattan surface. Paint, lacquer and fibre structure vary from piece to piece. If there is heavy or recurring mould, professional cleaning or the manufacturer's advice is safer.
Should rattan be oiled?
There is no universal rule that every natural rattan piece must be oiled with linseed oil once a year. Oil can react with the existing finish, change the colour or, over time, form a layer that attracts dirt.
So if a care product is to be used, the existing finish and the manufacturer's instructions should be the guide. The idea that “natural fibre = always needs oil” is technically too general.
What if rattan and bamboo are in the same piece?
Rattan and bamboo are often used in the same piece. Bamboo can form the more rigid frame and rattan the woven, flexible surface. When caring for it, it is safest to follow the most delicate component: avoid lots of water, harsh chemicals and direct high heat.
You can compare the technical differences between rattan and bamboo in our Rattan or Bamboo? Teak or Pine? guide.
How should rattan furniture be stored?
- Store the furniture clean and dry.
- Avoid storerooms that are very hot, very dry or constantly damp.
- Do not place heavy items on the weave.
- Lift a chair by its strong frame points rather than pulling it by the back or carrying it by the thin weave.
- If you use a cover, do not cut off air circulation completely.
If the weave has loosened or broken, it is better to have it repaired than to keep using it and make the damage worse.
Rattan in hotels and restaurants
Rattan creates a strong visual identity in hotel lobbies, indoor restaurant areas, spa spaces, verandas and shaded terraces. But in B2B projects, because of heavy use, weave tension, the load-bearing frame, cleaning routine and backup/repair options matter as well as appearance.
For areas in constant open air, by the pool or exposed to rain, materials with higher natural outdoor tolerance such as teak, or synthetic solutions suited to the project, may make more sense than natural rattan.
For hotel, restaurant and villa projects, you can reach us through the AYOMI B2B and Projects page.
Frequently asked questions
Is rattan water resistant?
Natural rattan can tolerate brief exposure to moisture but it is not waterproof. Constant wetness and slow drying increase the risk of mould and deformation.
Can rattan be used outdoors?
Yes on covered balconies, verandas and shaded terraces. In open areas with constant rain and full sun, natural rattan wears faster.
How do you clean rattan?
First remove dust with a dry, soft brush. If needed, use a well-wrung, lightly damp cloth and dry the surface quickly.
Can vinegar be used if rattan gets mouldy?
It is not right to recommend the same chemical for every surface. First solve the moisture causing the mould; once the surface is completely dry, clean it gently by mechanical means. For heavy mould, manufacturer or professional support is safer.
Should rattan furniture be oiled?
It depends on the piece's existing finish. It is not necessary to oil every rattan piece routinely.
Which is better, rattan or bamboo?
Rattan has the advantage in flexibility and weaving; bamboo in more rigid frames and load-bearing parts. Their uses are different.
Sources and further reading
- Canadian Conservation Institute — Caring for Basketry and Plant Materials
- Canadian Conservation Institute — Care of Basketry
- FAO — Management of Non-Wood Forest Products
You can browse AYOMI's natural material pieces in the Handmade Decor collection.