Can Rattan Furniture Be Left Outside?

Synthetic rattan material in garden furniture is designed to withstand harsh weather. However, that doesn’t mean constant exposure to elements won’t take its toll. The truth is, it can still show signs of wear over time, especially if left bare and unprotected outdoors!

So, is it safe to leave your rattan garden furniture outside? If so, for how long, and how can you protect your sets further? Keep reading for answers!

Is It Safe to Leave Rattan Furniture Outside?

Yes, it’s safe to leave your rattan sets outdoors, whether you have a 3 seater rattan sofa or an egg bistro set, for instance. This is because the ‘upgraded’ synthetic rattan material is more resistant to weathering and water damage. But then again, that’s not to say the material is indestructible. Too much exposure to elements, e.g., sun and rain, can cause damage, leading to cracks, splits, and brittleness. This is especially true if the furniture pieces aren’t properly cared for.

How Long Can I Leave My Rattan Furniture Outdoors?

High-quality rattan garden furniture can be left outside year-round without weathering. Say you own a rattan dining table made from synthetic rattan; you can keep it in the open all season.

If the set comes with garden chair cushions, you’ll want to pay extra attention to these accessories. For one, they can fade, stain, and encourage mildew growth within their tight corners, not to mention accumulate dirt over time.

Tip: While you can leave your rattan garden furniture outside all year, doing your part will help it maintain its good shape. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt, and every now and then, use mild soap and water for a deeper clean.

How Can I Protect My Rattan Sets from the Elements?

There’s plenty you can do to double the protection of your rattan furniture:

Use waterproof furniture covers

Waterproof garden seat covers are always great to have when your rattan furniture is not in use. The cover provides full protection against sunlight, rain, and snow. It also works against debris, dirt, and mould.

Tip: Look for one that fits your outdoor pieces, as these cover don’t come in a one-size-fits-all option. This BillyOh Premium PVC Bench Cover, for one, works well for garden benches.

Store during extreme weather

Whenever you can, store your rattan garden furniture in your shed or garage. Extreme weather, like heavy storms, strong winds, and harsh winters, can cause great damage. But, doing so can help prevent issues caused by moisture and temperature fluctuations. Even better, this extra care means less maintenance for you in the long run.

Read our guide, “Can Rattan Furniture Survive Winter?” to learn more about how you can better take care of your investment.

Raise the furniture

Is your furniture sitting directly on the ground? If so, try using furniture pads under the legs to lift them up. You can also place the outdoor piece on a platform, such as a patio deck, or some bricks to create a raised surface. This little trick helps prevent moisture from seeping in from the surface below.

Round-up

You can absolutely leave rattan furniture outside, but a bit of care goes a long way in keeping it looking fantastic and lasting longer. This includes covering and storing your sets and cleaning them whenever needed. With a little attention, you’ll be able to enjoy your investment for years to come!

Don’t miss our next read: What Is the Lifespan of Rattan Furniture?