Rattan conservatory furniture is low maintenance, but regular care will prolong the life of your investment with little effort. There are five steps to caring for your rattan pieces.

Step One

Make sure that you clean your rattan furniture regularly - at least once a month, but preferably weekly. Pour a small amount of washing up liquid into a bowl and add warm water, allowing it to froth into soapy foam. Skim the suds from the top onto a soft cloth and wipe down the rattan, without wetting it. It is important you clean the crevices well using an old toothbrush to remove any dirt.

Step Two

Do not take your rattan furniture outside. It is not suitable for outdoor use, unless it has been specially treated with a resin by the manufacturer to seal the fibres. Placing it out of direct sunlight will also prolong the life of rattan items.

Step Three

If your furniture gets a stain, ensure it is treated immediately for the best results. Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth to scrub out most stains. If the rattan cracks or splits, use boiled linseed oil to restore moisture into the wood. For more serious staining or damage, contact a rattan specialist for expert advice.

Step Four

Your rattan furniture needs to have a proper clean at least once a year. This will remove any dirt that has been building up and will highlight any areas of concern. Scrub the furniture with soapy water, using a slightly wetter cloth than you would for a regular clean. Dry off as quickly as possible, using a tea-towel or other dry cloth, then leave in the sun to dry completely, or use a hairdryer on a warm setting. When the rattan is fully dried, apply a coat of lacquer or shellac to seal the wood, making it as good as new.

Step Five

To protect the legs of your rattan furniture, place rubber stoppers between the rattan and the floor. This will prevent splitting and any unnecessary damage.