Care of Banana Bark Chairs

Banana tree bark makes beautiful furniture.

Lending a natural and earthy feel to your home, banana bark chairs work well both indoors and out for a creative outdoor seating area. Though inherently simple to take care of, they're also easy to forget about and neglect, which can ultimately lead to damage. Taking a few precautions and spending a few minutes of your time every once in awhile will help keep your banana bark chairs looking new.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloth
• Soft bristle brush
• Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
• Hose
• Spray bottle
• Laundry or dish detergent
• Paper towels
• Chlorine bleach

Instructions

1. Wipe down the chairs with a soft cloth periodically to remove dust. Vacuum the furniture with the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris that may be lodged in tight places. A small brush may also be helpful for loosening dirt in tight places.

2. Spray outdoor banana bark chairs with the hose to help remove dirt in between cleanings and keep the bark from drying out. Remove any cushions before spraying, and avoid putting them back until the furniture is dry, to prevent mildew and mold. Chairs that are kept indoors can be misted periodically with a spray bottle or brought into the bathroom during a shower to allow the steam to work on them.

3. Remove mold and mildew from your banana bark chairs immediately. Begin by spraying the chairs down with a hose. Dampening the mold or mildew spores will help keep them from becoming airborne and potentially landing on you. Brush away the mildew or mold with a soft bristle brush before washing the area with soapy water. Rinse well with the hose, and sanitize the area with a weak solution of chlorine bleach and water. A solution as diluted as 1/4 cup bleach in a gallon of water should be sufficient. Allow the chairs to sit outside and air dry.

4. Clean up spills on your chairs immediately with a clean cloth or paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Wipe the area again with a damp cloth to remove residual stickiness. Place the chair outside to air dry.

5. Wash the chairs at least once a year, or as often as they need it, with warm soapy water. Use a mild laundry or dish detergent mixed with water. Scrub the chair gently with a cloth or sponge, using a soft bristle brush to get into hard-to-reach places. Rinse the chair with water from the hose, and leave it outside to air dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your banana bark chairs out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and drying out.

References

• Rattan Land: Rattan Furniture
• Michigan State University; Wicker Furniture--Care and Cleaning; Anne Field; June 2003
• North Dakota State University; Remove Mold for a Healthy Home; Kenneth Hellevang; April 2009