Chair Elliott

How to care for Natural Wood, Rattan and Cane

Wood and wicker (e.g. rattan and cane) are the most commonly used materials for furniture. Because of their natural appearance, they add warmth and beauty to your décor. Knowing how to clean these materials will help you keep your possessions looking lovely, longer.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Discover how to clean and maintain items comprising natural wood, rattan and cane.

Natural Wood & Rattan

Dust off regularly with a clean soft cloth. For routine cleaning, use a soft cloth of microfiber towel that has been dampened with a diluted cleaning polish. Wipe in the direction of the grain. Clean spills or smudges with a damp cloth.
To restore dry or cracked rattan, apply boiled linseed oil* with a brush (raw linseed oil will not dry or harden). When the furniture won't absorb any more oil, wipe it clean with a soft cloth. Allow it to dry or harden before using it again.
*Boiled linseed oil is available at most hardware stores. Do not boil it yourself.

Cane

Dust off regularly with a feather duster or synthetic electrostatic duster. Clean cane webbing with a mild detergent in lukewarm water, using a soft dampened cloth or microfiber towel. Rinse well and dab with a clean dry cloth. Allow to dry well for at least 48 hours before sitting on it again or putting back the glass tabletop, otherwise the webbing could stretch out of shape or get mold or mildew.