Caring for Your Basketware

Basketware or wicker is traditionally made from plant origin materials such as rattan, seagrass, jute, bamboo to name just a few.  These natural products are a great way to bring a little nature into the home as well as being hugely practical. If looked after well, these products should last a long time and here are our top tips for keeping your basketware looking its best.

Avoid

1/ Moisture

Natural products do not like prolonged exposure to moisture or being wet. overexposure can lead to a build up of mould, or even worse the material may start to rot! Indoors this means making sure baskets are located in well ventilated areas, particularly if being located in a bathroom. So mechanical fans, dehumidifiers or just opening a window regularly will all help.  If using as a laundry basket do not leave damp clothes sitting in your baskets!  

Outdoor baskets will weather and age over time. To give these products the best chance, try keeping in sheltered areas out of the rain if possible, but definitely do not allow them to sit in water, so make sure there is good drainage wherever they are located.  

2/ Direct Sunlight

Many materials do not like prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and natural materials such as rattan and seagrass are no different. The suns powerful UV rays will have a bleaching effect and in time will start to break down the material. Avoid where possible. 

3/ Heat

Baskets are often used around the fireplace for storing logs and kindling. Overtime too much heat is likely to weaken the fibres, so try and keep your baskets at a safe distance and not too exposed to the very high temperatures that are generated with modern log burners.

4/ Using as a Planter

Wicker baskets make great planters. If using with real plants always make sure there is damp barrier/ liner between the soil and your basket. Of course baskets are not waterproof so again make sure there is drainage beneath them. Faux flora offer a great alternative solution.  

Cleaning

1/ Vacuuming 

Regular vacuuming your basketware is a fast and efficient way to remove dust before it becomes engrained into the fibres. It also has minimal impact on the basketware itself.

2/ Microfibre Cloths

Microfibre cloths are a versatile cleaning option. Made up of small split fibres that can pick up small dirt such as bacteria, it is a fast drying material and can be used dry or slightly dampened. To work they do need to be clean themselves, so a warm wash is normally advised. 

To clean wicker using a microfibre cloth, make sure your basket is empty, then wipe it using a dry, clean cloth. For more stubborn areas, add a little water with a couple of drops of washing up liquid.  As we know, excessive water can damage your basketware, so always wipe dry. Do not put any items back in the basket or on top of the surface until it’s completely dry.   

Conclusion

Natural Materials such as Rattan and Wicker look amazing and will last when taken care of. Avoid moist environments, heat and direct sunlight where possible and clean regularly with a vacuum cleaner or microfibre cloth for the best results.