How to Protect Wicker Resin Chairs

Resin wicker stands up to the challenges of Mother Nature, but it is not indestructible.

Resin wicker chairs combine the casual good looks of traditional wicker with a durability that makes them a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts who wish to add a Caribbean flair to their patio, deck or poolside lounge area. Resin wicker is woven from polyethylene resin fibers and, unlike traditional wicker, will not chip, crack, mold, rot or splinter. Resin wicker is also easy to clean and should never require repainting. Still, it is not indestructible. Proper care and attention can protect your resin wicker chairs to ensure that they provide you with years and years of stylish comfort.

Instructions

1. Keep your wicker resin chairs free of debris. Dust, dirt, leaves and especially soggy leaves can slowly cause virtually any surface to deteriorate over time. Vacuum the chairs regularly with a hand-held vacuum cleaner or an attachment from an upright vacuum, being careful to remove dirt from corners and crevices.

2. Wipe the chairs with a damp cloth and wipe them dry regularly. Although you can literally hose down your resin chairs, it is better not to saturate the resin. If the chairs are dirty or stained, clean them with a mixture of water and mild dish soap and then wipe them dry.

3. Keep your resin chairs out of the path of doors, bicycles, grills, cars and other heavy objects. Resin is a form of plastic and so can succumb to dents. Store your resin chairs in a safe place during storms or high winds; heavy wind gusts can pick up, toss and dent lightweight resin chairs.

4. Keep your resin chairs away from grills and outdoor heaters, as plastic can melt. Although resin is largely weather resistant, it is best to store resin chairs in a garage or shed rather than leave them exposed to the elements -- especially snow, hail and downpours -- for prolonged periods of time.

5. 

   Cushions add comfort to resin wicker furniture.

   Add upholstered seat cushions to provide an extra layer of protection to your chairs. Unlike traditional wicker, resin wicker shouldn't "budge" or make a cracking noise when someone settles his weight into a chair; the resin fibers reinforce the wicker with greater strength and flexibility. Still, padding can increase comfort. The cushions could block accidental punctures and dents and might even elevate the style quotient that led you to purchase the chairs in the first place.

References

• Good Housekeeping; Caring for Wicker; Heloise
• Resin Wicker Furniture: What Is Resin Wicker Furniture?