At a Glance:
Wicker vs Rattan: Which Works Better Outdoors?
Recommended Outdoor Furniture Pieces
Close your eyes and picture your ideal outdoor space. Likely, there’s some woven furniture in your mind’s eye. You’re not alone. Rattan outdoor furniture and patio furniture with wicker weaving are hugely popular and have been for years. They’re durable, stylish, and easily adaptable to a variety of design styles. However, there’s some confusion around the difference between wicker vs rattan.
Learning the difference between wicker and rattan is essential if you’re in the market for outdoor furniture and are looking for pieces appropriate for your area’s climate. By comparing the pros and cons and differentiating between the different types and styles of each, our experts here at Colder’s can help you find the right pieces for your environment along with the most durable outdoor furniture that stylish and functional.
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Shop NowWhat Is Wicker?
Wicker is a method—not a material. Typically, wicker outdoor furniture is made from natural materials like bamboo, seagrass, and believe it or not, rattan (that’s right—it’s a material). With that said, much of today’s selection of wicker furniture is also from a synthetic material like resin or plastic.
Wicker is a popular choice for outdoor spaces such as patios, decks, and gardens for its lightweight, breathable construction and natural aesthetic. It’s light and airy, which makes it particularly great to lounge on in warmer climates. Wicker furniture adds a charming, rustic touch to outdoor spaces, but you can also find modern and contemporary variations of wicker (and you can even paint old wicker for a new look).
Learn more: Why Ashley Outdoor Furniture Is the Best for Your Patio
Pros and Cons of Wicker Outdoor Furniture
Like any material, wicker has its pros and cons.
✅Lightweight and easy to move around
✅Offers a natural and charming aesthetic
✅Typically affordable compared to other outdoor furniture materials
✖ May require occasional maintenance to prevent wear and tear
✖ Can be less durable than materials like metal or aluminum
✖ Susceptible to damage from exposure to harsh weather conditions
Types of Wicker
Here are four common types of wicker, along with the outdoor conditions they’re best for:
- Rattan wicker is made from the stems of a palm plant, and is durable and suitable for a variety of outdoor conditions, particularly in tropical and humid climates where it thrives.
- Seagrass wicker is woven from natural seagrass fibers, offering a coastal charm best suited for covered outdoor spaces or areas with minimal exposure to moisture.
- Bamboo wicker is crafted from bamboo reeds, making it lightweight and resilient. Bamboo wicker furniture is ideal for outdoor areas with moderate weather conditions and some protection from the elements.
- Resin wicker (a.k.a. synthetic wicker) is made from synthetic materials like polyethylene for highly durable, weather-resistant surfaces suitable for all outdoor environments, including those with high humidity, rain, or intense sunlight.
What Is Rattan?
To further differentiate between wicker vs rattan, let’s define rattan. Rattan is a type of palm plant whose stems are used in furniture production due to their flexibility and durability. It's commonly utilized in outdoor spaces because of its natural resistance to weather elements like rain, sunlight, and humidity.
You can find natural and synthetic versions of rattan, but synthetic rattan offers the most enhanced weather resistance and easier maintenance. Overall, rattan furniture is best for outdoor areas that experience moderate climates with occasional exposure to sunlight and rain.
Pros and Cons of Rattan Furniture
Compare the pros and cons of rattan patio furniture to decide which material is best for your lifestyle.
✅Highly durable and long-lasting in outdoor environments
✅Provides a classic and timeless look to outdoor spaces
✅Offers natural ventilation, making it comfortable to sit on even in warm weather
✖ Can be more expensive than other types of outdoor furniture
✖ Rattan furniture requires occasional cleaning and maintenance to preserve its appearance
✖ Can fade or discolor over time if exposed to prolonged sunlight or harsh weather
Exploring Rattan Styles
Like wicker, rattan furniture comes in several different styles. Let’s compare 3 of the most popular options:
- Reed rattan is a natural material suitable for outdoor spaces with mild weather conditions and minimal exposure to moisture.
- Synthetic rattan is made from plastic or resin, highly durable, and ideal for outdoor settings exposed to various weather conditions, including rain and humidity.
- Cane rattan is a traditional and lightweight option best suited for covered outdoor areas or climates with moderate weather conditions to prevent excessive wear and tear.
Wicker vs Rattan: Which Works Better Outdoors?
In the wicker vs rattan debate, what is the verdict? In terms of durability, it’s virtually a tie between resin wicker and synthetic rattan. Resin wicker tends to work better outdoors because of its weather-resistant properties and durability. Rattan furniture—especially synthetic rattan—is the next best option.
In terms of ease of maintenance, wicker is the winner. It’s generally easier to clean, as it can be wiped down with a damp cloth, while rattan may require more delicate cleaning methods to avoid damaging the natural fibers.
For Milwaukee weather conditions in particular, we recommend synthetic rattan or resin wicker, while it may be better to stay away from more delicate, natural materials altogether. Synthetic rattan and resin wicker are highly durable and resistant to moisture, making them able to last throughout the year in Wisconsin. Keep an eye out for synthetic rattan and resin wicker with aluminum framing for extra durability and strength.
Recommended Outdoor Furniture Pieces
Now that you know a little more about wicker and rattan patio furniture, you’re ready to explore outdoor seating options crafted in these classic styles. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites to inspire you to make your backyard space into an outdoor lounging oasis.
Homestyles Boca Raton Brown Outdoor Storage Table
Shop This homestyles Rattan Storage
Storage is often limited in outdoor spaces, so you have to get creative. This outdoor storage table is the perfect place to tuck away garden supplies or to provide a safe place for outdoor cushions so they aren’t exposed to the elements 24/7. The solid tabletop provides a resting place for drinks, snacks, books, or games. In terms of durability, this table is made of all-weather rattan that requires zero maintenance year-round.
⭐Featured homestyles Boca Raton Review:
“WOW! This box exceeded my expectations, it was easy to assemble and sturdier than I anticipated. The bottom brown part is hard woven weather resistant material, while the decorative top is made of wood. The top is heavy, which is great so the box doesn't blow away, however it is not on a hinge so it is heavy for my children to pick up to grab the pool towels out. Overall, great quality and large for the size.”
Homestyles Boca Raton 4-Piece Brown Outdoor Loveseat Set
Shop this homestyles Rattan Seating Set
This 4-piece conversation set is the perfect place to gather with friends and family. There’s room for five people to sit comfortably, plus a central table for propping up your feet or resting snacks and drinks on. The two square removable tops in the table open to reveal plastic bins that you can use as planters, ice buckets, or hidden storage. It’s all-weather rattan construction is complemented by wood accents and gray cushions to create a stylish contemporary furniture set.
Flexsteel Outdoor Vista Ivory/Warm Gray Swivel Tilt Chair
Shop This Flexsteel Wicker Chair
If you need an accent chair or have a small patio with room for just a chair or two, this comfortable and stylish wicker chair is an excellent option. Its neutral, transitional style is calm and classic, coupled with 360 degrees of swivel action for a touch of indulgence. Sink back into the Sunbrella performance fabric cushions that are resistant to fading on a synthetic wicker base that’s infused with UV inhibitors that prevent discoloration.
Progressive Furniture Mahogany Outdoor Sofa
Shop This Progressive Furniture Wicker Sofa
This sofa will help you create a cozy and contemporary lounge space outside. Quality materials combine to create a durable sofa, including wicker, metal, synthetic wood, and high-performance upholstery. The frame is made of powder-coated aluminum that resists rust and corrosion. We love the combo of dark brown and beige for a simple color palette that allows you to add any accent colors you want through colorful pillows, plants, or rugs.
Signature Design by Ashley Amaris 5-Piece Black/Brown Outdoor Dining Set
Shop This Signature Design by Ashley Wicker Dining Set
This 5-piece dining set is perfect for small or medium-sized patios. We love the mix of materials in a combo of resin wicker, resin wood, and metal with a powder-coated steel frame and stainless steel hardware. Gather up to four to enjoy company in the sun on this durable dining set made for outdoors.
Learn more: What to Look for in an Outdoor Dining Table
Wicker and rattan aren’t the same thing, but now that you know that, you’re set to explore options from natural to synthetic. At Colder’s Appliance, you can find the best selection of durable and stylish outdoor furniture in Milwaukee. Stop by one of our Milwaukee furniture stores today to browse wicker and rattan patio furniture options in person.
FAQs
How to clean rattan furniture?
To clean rattan furniture, use a soft brush or cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution, being careful not to soak the material.
Can rattan get wet?
While rattan can withstand some moisture, it's best to avoid leaving it exposed to prolonged or excessive moisture to prevent damage or mold growth.
Can wicker furniture get wet?
Yes, it’s okay if wicker gets wet, but you don’t want to soak it or wet and dry it repeatedly. Similar to rattan, try to limit the amount of moisture your wicker furniture is exposed to.
How do you clean wicker furniture?
The key to cleaning wicker furniture is to wash it gently and sparingly. You can use mild liquid soap and warm water.
Why Trust Colder’s?
Since 1942, we at Colder's pride ourselves on offering value, selection, and service. Serving Southeastern Wisconsin with four showrooms that stock quality name-brand furniture, appliances, and mattresses, Colder’s is sure to house exactly what you are looking for. And if you can't find it on our floors, chances are, we can order it for you. As a local, family-owned company, we are always doing our best to provide the highest value at the lowest cost to everyone who walks through our doors.
Colder’s is committed not only to continuously offering can’t-miss sales but also to working with each customer, making sure that you take advantage of every possible markdown — that’s our best price guarantee. Still need help? We offer zero percent appliance and furniture financing for your home needs!
Shop Outdoor Furniture at Colder’s
Don’t put off happiness — and shop outdoor furniture online for unbeatable prices at Colder’s. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you decide between wicker vs rattan, whether you call us at 414-476-1574 or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our Colder’s locations in West Allis, Oak Creek, Delafield, and Grafton, Wisconsin to touch, see, feel, and experience home products that fulfill your dreams. Visit us today!
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