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Rattan garden furniture has been gracing British outdoor spaces since the Victorian era. This alone shows how reliable rattan is for open-air settings. Fast forward to today, and the natural-looking and durable synthetic rattan is one of the most popular choices for our gardens.
There’s so much to discover about this man-made material, from its properties and factors to consider when investing in one. Let this guide help you find what you’re looking for.
Rattan in Garden Furniture
The weaving technique made from genuine rattan is a standout feature in rattan furniture. The natural material is not just stylish—it’s also sustainable, durable, and long-lasting. These perks make it a crowd favourite for outdoor sets. But as trends change, synthetic materials are also making their way into the market.
Synthetic Rattan in Garden Furniture
The ‘synthetic’ rattan in garden furniture mimics the look and feel of natural rattan. Polyethylene is a popular choice of material, woven into intricate patterns for furniture. Polyurethane (PU) and Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) also fall into this category.
PE rattan is resistant to weather and UV rays, is low maintenance, and is durable. Unlike natural rattan, it doesn’t fade or crack over time. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to move around.
PE rattan is more eco-friendly compared to other synthetic materials, like PU and PVC. It lasts longer and looks like natural rattan but with colour variations.
Now that you know the properties of synthetic rattan furniture, it’s time to pay attention to a few more details. The more familiar you are with these, the better your chances of narrowing down your options when shopping for a set.
Features to Consider
Not all synthetic rattan, or rattan furniture in general, is created equal. Understanding the different features can help ensure years of use and enjoyment, including:
1. Frame material
Quality is key, and what’s inside the frame is just as important as the exterior. Regarding frames, you typically have two options: steel and aluminium. Both affect the furniture’s price and longevity, so choose wisely!
Aluminium frames are lightweight, making them easy to move around, and they’re resistant to rust and corrosion. They require little maintenance and can handle harsh weather. Plus, a powder coating adds extra protection, ensuring complete rust resistance.
Steel frames are heavier and stronger, offering more stability and durability. They’re also often more affordable and can give the furniture a classic, traditional look. However, steel is prone to rust and needs more maintenance to prevent corrosion.
Best choice: Sturdy aluminium frames. They can be left outside even in damp or cold conditions. Garden furniture with aluminium frames often comes with a 3 to 10-year guarantee.
2. Product size
Here, we’ll use rattan dining sets as an example. When shopping online, certain angles in photos can make them appear larger than they actually are. Overlooking the actual dimensions can lead to sizing mistakes. You’d be surprised how much of a difference a few centimetres can make, especially with chairs.
The same goes for outdoor rattan sofas. The seat depth and back cushion height can impact both comfort and how the furniture fits into your patio layout.
Take into account the size and layout of your outdoor space, as well as the furniture you’re considering. Measure the area where you plan to place the set so it fits properly. Doing so will help you determine what size of furniture works best for your garden or patio.
3. Glass thickness
Most rattan garden furniture sets come with glass tables, so if the set you’re eyeing has one, be sure to check its glass thickness. The thickness depends on factors like the table’s size, weight, and intended use. Generally, around 6mm to 8mm is suitable.
Thicker glass can provide more durability, but it also adds weight and cost. On the other hand, thinner glass may be more fragile and prone to cracking or breaking. You wouldn’t want to bring home something too heavy or light that doesn’t meet your expectations!
If you have kids or pets, glass-topped tables that are tempered are your best bet—a feature that BillyOh offers. Tempered glass is stronger and more resistant to breaking than regular glass. If it does break, it shatters into small, less dangerous pieces instead of sharp shards.
4. Cushion material
Many high-quality rattan garden furniture sets come with seat cushions. Acrylic and Olefin are top choices due to their durability and fade resistance. These fabrics are among the best, making them more expensive than ordinary textiles. Polyester is another option that offers excellent value for money. However, since polyester cushions vary in quality, not all are suitable for outdoor use.
Best choice: Invest in cushions made from acrylic or Olefin fibres. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, resist fading, mould, and mildew, and are easy to clean and maintain.
5. Storage and maintenance
Synthetic rattan is built to endure harsh outdoor weather, but with a little care and maintenance, it will continue to look great and serve its purpose.
Covering the set with outdoor furniture covers is a great practice to protect it from the elements. In addition to shielding against weather damage, these covers help keep furniture free of debris when stored in the shed. This, in turn, reduces the need for thorough cleaning when you take it out again for use.
For maintenance, regular cleaning does the trick. You don’t need a special cleaning product, though. Just use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the surface. Or a mild, soapy water solution to clean the furniture. Avoid abrasive cleaners to prevent damage to synthetic fibres.
Top tip: If you notice any cracks or damage, repair or replace the affected parts as soon as possible. This will prevent further issues and keep your furniture looking pristine for years.
Read our guide, ‘How To Store Rattan Garden Furniture,’ to learn more.
Round-up
To invest in the best synthetic rattan garden furniture, start with a set with a sturdy aluminium frame. If possible, go for one that’s powder-coated for extra durability. Don’t just trust the photos, either. Check the actual dimensions to make sure it fits your space perfectly.
Choose tempered glass for extras like coffee tables, as it’s more robust. When it comes to cushions, find ones that match your furniture, are built to last, and are comfy to sit on. Don’t forget to care for your set so it won’t lose appeal.
BillyOh’s range of rattan garden furniture meets all these requirements, with furniture accessories available to complete your setup.
Up next on your reading list: How to Secure Rattan Garden Furniture?
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