When considering patio furniture, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is buying natural wicker, synthetic wicker or rattan furniture. Trying to determine which type is most beneficial for you can be tough, so below is a comparison of each option to assist you with your decision.
What is Wicker?
The word “wicker” refers to the Old English term for weaving baskets out of cane-like materials. Wicker is often used to make furniture, baskets, and other household items.
Wicker is made by weaving together strips of material, usually rattan, willow, seagrass, or reeds. Wicker furniture is often made with a weave reinforced with a metal frame. This makes the furniture stronger and more durable.
Wicker furniture was very popular in the Victorian era. It was seen as elegant and refined. Wicker continued to be popular in the 20th century because it was considered rustic and natural.
Today, wicker furniture is still popular in many homes. It is seen as being stylish and timeless. Wicker furniture can be used indoors or outdoors. It is also very versatile and can be used in various settings.
What is Rattan?
Rattan is a material made from the fibers of climbing plants. It is very strong and flexible, often used as a material for wicker, making it ideal for weaving into furniture. Rattan is often used to make chairs, tables, and other pieces of furniture. Rattan furniture is known for its durability and strength.
Rattan wicker creates intricate patterns and twists on the armrests and legs of the furniture. Its sugar cane rind is cut into strips and woven into wicker products.
Sugarcane shines most naturally and can be machined or hand-woven into detailed patterns. Its naturally shiny beiges and browns are used to create an earthy, neutral theme.
Kubu is a walking stick derived from rattan treated in wet clay to give it a soft off-white color.
Reeds are taken from the center of the cane and are very flexible. It is used for stylish wicker accessories, and its plain color is perfect for staining or tinting. Wear dark reed accessories with a reddish-brown colonial sofa or a painted dining room set.
What are Natural Wickers?
Natural wicker can be made from a variety of materials, including
- Rattan
As mentioned above, rattan is a type of palm that grows in tropical regions worldwide. The slender yet strong stems are used to create everything from baskets to furniture.
- Seaweed
Seaweed is a form of algae that flourishes in saltwater. Many different types of seaweed come in various colors, including green, red, and brown.
Seaweed furniture is often made from beached seaweed that has been dried and then woven into various shapes and designs.
- Raffia
Raffia is a type of palm leaf often used in weaving and other craft projects. It is characterized by its long, narrow leaves and its flexibility.
Raffia is also very strong, making it an ideal material for furniture.
This type of weaving has become increasingly popular due to its comfort, flexibility, and potential for creativity.
Wicker’s popularity has increased due to different patterns’ many construction possibilities. Additionally, you can alter its appearance by tinting the natural shades of wicker.
What are Natural Wickers Furniture?
Wicker furniture has a unique aesthetic that many people find appealing. However, it is important to note that wicker furniture is not ideal for all weather conditions.
Wicker furniture can be damaged by rain, sleet, snow, and moisture. Some companies offer coatings that make wicker furniture more resistant to damage from the elements; however, it is still best to enjoy wicker furniture indoors or in areas where it will not be directly exposed to sunlight.
Wicker made from natural materials should only be used indoors because it can become expensive to keep in good condition if exposed to the elements. Opt for synthetic wicker when using furniture outside!
Moreover, there are some downsides to natural wickers. They can be quite fragile and may need to be replaced more often than other materials. In addition, they may not be as comfortable as some other options.
Here is a quick overview of the pros and cons of natural wickers:
Pros:
- Charming and elegant
- Often associated with relaxation and comfort
- A wide variety of colors and styles to choose from
- Can be customized to fit any décor style
Cons:
- Not as durable as some other materials
- Can be quite fragile
- May not be as comfortable as some other options
What are Synthetic Wickers (or Resin Wickers)?
Resin wicker is a man-made material that mimics the look and feel of traditional wicker but without inherent flaws.
Unlike natural wicker, which is made from organic materials like cane and rattan, resin wicker is made from synthetic polymers like
- PVC
PVC, a vinyl polymer, is most frequently used to produce pipes. Plastic Wicker furniture made from PVC is cheaper than other types; however, it doesn’t stand up to wear and tear and is prone to damage, fading, scratching and denting over time.
- Nylon
Nylon is a synthetic polymer made from repeating units of amides joined by peptide bonds. It is a strong, durable material resistant to sunlight, chemicals, and abrasion degradation. Nylon is often used in wicker furniture because it is easy to manipulate into shape and maintain over time.
- polyethylene (PE )
Polyethylene is lightweight, durable, and resistant to fading and cracking, making it an excellent choice for patio furniture that will be exposed to the elements. Polyethylene PE wicker furniture is also typically very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious shoppers.
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
High-density polyethylene, or HDPE, is a type of plastic that is incredibly durable and resistant to chemicals and heat. Not only is this product recyclable, but it is also eco-friendly.
Compared to polyethylene (PE), HDPE has a higher density, making it stronger and more rigid. Applications that require durability and strength, such as outdoor PE wicker furniture, benefit from this product.
- Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is a diverse material that has many functions, like injection molding and reinforce fiber materials. Not to mention, it’s commonly used for packaging purposes. It has many advantages that make it ideal for certain types of applications. However, like all polymers, there are also some limitations to consider before using polypropylene in your project.
Pros
- This material is more affordable.
- It is almost entirely waterproof.
- The fact that it is semi-crystalline makes it highlyflexural..
- This chemical is resistant to bases and acids.
- It is resistant to fatigue, meaning it can withstand a lot of impact.
- Since it is electrically resistant, it makes for an excellent electrical insulator.
- Repairs are typically easier than damage prevention.
Cons
- It is intolerant to chlorinated solvents and aromatics.
- The paint does not adhere well to the surface.
What are plastic injection mould rattan chairs (PLASTIC STEEL FURNITURE)?
The furniture is made of plastic moulded into a rattan-like pattern. Injection-moulded plastic furniture, often called injection-moulded wicker furniture, is created by pouring molten plastic into molds. As opposed to regular wicker Furniture, this process results in products with a surface that looks rattan but offers extra durability.
Additionally, compared to ordinary home furnishings, this plastic steel furniture usually looks more elegant and modern. It may also be perceived as being warmer and closer to nature due to its earthy tones. As a result, it is commonly used for high-end indoor or outdoor patio furniture pieces meant for cafes, homes, or other luxury sales locations.
Pros
- These chairs are easy to keep clean – all you need is soap and water.
- Plastic chairs are typically more durable when compared to other furniture types.
- Plastic chairs are cheaper than rattan chairs. They can be purchased at different affordable prices.
- There is a wide array of colors available for plastic furniture. Custom colours can be produced as long as the desired color is on a Pantone color card.
- No fear of environmental changes – Also, it will never break when exposed to sunlight or cold.
- Plastic chairs are ideal for outdoor furniture as they can withstand all weather conditions.
- Plastic chairs are useful for various settings, including homes and offices. They come in various sizes, colours, and styles to fit any decor.
- Different plastic chairs can have unique and alluring combinations. For example, you can find chairs made from a mix of plastic and chrome that look elegant and stylish.
Cons
- Plastic chairs may produce a squeaky sound when sat on for long periods of time.
- The chairs can become too hot when placed in direct sunlight.
Professional Tips:
If you’re looking for patio furniture that looks fabulous and will stand the test of time, resin wicker or injection rattan (PLASTIC STEEL FURNITURE) is a great choice. Their outdoor pieces are tough, low-maintenance and chic.
We recommend PP for plastic furniture as it is a dense compound. This means that the furniture will be very tough and can withstand any outdoor conditions. In contrast, other wicker materials, such as PVC, may peel off or change color over time; it takes a long time for PE to degrade, and it can linger in landfills for decades.
One way to identify quality wicker furniture from poor quality furniture at a glance is by its finish. High-quality wicker will have a matte (flat) surface rather than a glossy finish.
The verdict takeaway
- Natural wicker will eventually become dry and brittle and develop cracks that cause the weave to unravel.
- Natural wicker is fragile and can be easily damaged by insects or small pests.
- Wicker furniture left outside may fade in the sun or become waterlogged and saggy.
- Wicker made out of natural materials is best used indoors.
- Synthetic wicker is specially treated to resist fading in direct sunlight.
- Unlike natural wicker, synthetic wicker and plastic steel chair is chip and scratch-resistant while being just as stain-resistant.
- It’s easy to wash plastic steel chairs.
- Typically, plastic steel chair costs less than natural wicker.
- PP is a 100% recyclable material.
- Not only is plastic steel chair resistant to the elements, but it can also add a touch of sophistication to your indoor décor.
What is the market trend of plastic furniture?
- From 2013 to 2017, the plastic furniture market expanded rapidly as new technological advancements made it possible to create durable high-performance plastic materials.
- In 2018, the market for plastic furniture reached $23.3 billion and is expected to grow by 5.3% every year until 2019. With manufacturers introducing innovative materials and designs regularly, there will be plenty of opportunities for sales growth in this lucrative market.
- During the forecast period 2018-2028, the global plastic furniture market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6%.The main reason for our company’s expansion is the ever-growing global need for low-cost designer furniture.
- The current market for plastic furniture is found in South Asia. This is due to the growing disposable income of consumers in India and Indonesia, which has led to an increase in sales of plastic furniture items.
- Because of the continuous construction industry growth and development in infrastructure, South Asia will remain a market with high demand for plastic furniture.
What trends are currently occurring in the plastic furniture market that are causing growth?
- The furniture industry is gradually replacing heavier metals with lighter and more affordable plastics in their designs; This change is due to the high-performancematerial properties of plastics. In other words, plastic furniture is likely to become increasingly popular in the next few years.
- By improving the properties of thermoplastics, plastic furniture manufacturing costs would be reduced, allowing for more diverse and interesting designs that could take advantage of the growing sales potential in this market.
- Plastic furniture manufacturers are revamping their business strategies to take advantage of the e-commerce industry’s growth. They’re doing this because millennial consumers are more likely to buy furniture online than any other generation.
- The use of recycled plastic is growing in the furniture market as people become more aware of how harmful plastic pollution is to the environment.
FAQ
How long will synthetic wicker furniture last?
While natural wicker is made from materials like PE rattan, reed, or willow, synthetic wicker is usually made from polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC. These materials are incredibly durable, meaning synthetic wicker furniture can last for years without showing wear and tear.
In fact, quality synthetic wicker furniture can resist fading and cracking for decades. When combined with premium outdoor fabrics like Sunbrella and other outdoor-rated fabrics, synthetic wicker furniture will hold color much longer than traditional outdoor furniture. So synthetic wicker is a great option if you’re looking for furniture that will stand the test of time.
How to clean up Resin Wicker Furniture?
Vacuuming with a brush attachment and spot cleaning with a sponge or toothbrush, dish soap, and water is the recommended method for cleaning resin wicker furniture. If your resin wicker is dirty or dusty after the off-season, you can do a deep clean by rinsing. If necessary, scrub with a soft brush and soapy water, then hose down again. Allow the wicker to dry thoroughly before using the furniture. This will help keep your resin wicker looking new for years to come.
How to maintain wicker furniture?
Wicker furniture is a classic choice for indoor and outdoor spaces alike. But like any other furniture, it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. The good news is that taking care of wicker furniture is relatively easy. Here are a few tips to help you keep your wicker furniture in top condition:
- Vacuum regularly with the brush attachment to remove dust and pollen.
- Clean up spills and stains as soon as possible.
- Keep the furniture clean and dry to prevent mildew and rot.
- Use a soft cloth or brush to dust the furniture every week.
- If the furniture is kept outdoors, bring it inside during inclement weather to prevent wind, rain, or snow damage.
These tips will help you take care of your wicker furniture so that it lasts for years to come.