Wicker is not actually the name of any specific material. Instead, it is the name for the weaving process used to make various different objects from baskets to furniture. Thus, wicker furniture should have a woven look to it. In fact, the furniture is made with a wooden frame, which a pliable material is then woven around. When you buy wicker furniture, you need to know that there's a difference between wicker furniture made for indoor use versus outdoor use. If your buying furniture for a patio, you need to first of all buy the right type of furniture and then take proper care of it. 

Recognizing Indoor Wicker Furniture

The conditions inside a home provide shelter for furniture; thus, decomposition is less of a concern. Delicate strips of wood or vine, which may not hold up well to conditions outside your home, should do fine inside a home, so furniture manufacturers will often use natural materials for the wicker. These materials should hold up fine to normal wear and tear associated with using the furniture, but if exposed to sunlight and harsh outdoor conditions, it will start to break down. 

Recognizing Outdoor Wicker Furniture

Because patio furniture manufacturers know that the furniture will be exposed to rough conditions, they choose materials that can be made to look like natural materials but will hold up better to rough conditions. Two common materials used in outdoor wicker furniture are vinyl and polyethylene. Both synthetic materials can be extruded, molded, and otherwise shaped so that they look like a natural material. They can, however, be exposed to direct sunlight, torrential rain, and temperature changes without breaking down. 

Caring for Patio Furniture

Just because you have synthetic wicker patio furniture does not mean that you don't have to do anything to maintain your furniture. Instead, you should wipe the furniture down after rainfall. Standing water can stain the color, promote discoloration, and promote the growth of mold and mildew. You should also not leave the furniture in direct sunlight when not in use. Shading the furniture with an umbrella or roof will prevent the sun from making the furniture brittle. 

Wicker furniture is comfortable and long-lasting. If you are trying to create a cozy, classic look for your patio, then wicker furniture is a good choice for your home. As long as you take the right steps to protect it, you have several years of comfort ahead.