Doing preventive care for wicker baskets is important if you want them to last a long time. Wicker baskets are a nice decor piece and useful for keeping things organized. But over time, normal wear and environmental factors can cause damage if the baskets aren’t properly taken care of and protected. By following some basic care steps, you can prevent small issues from becoming big problems.
Handling and Storage
Lifting Wicker Baskets the Right Way: To not hurt your back when moving wicker baskets, lift with your legs and not your back. Bend your knees and keep the basket close to your body. Don’t twist around when you lift. Ask for help if it’s big or heavy.
Storing Wicker Baskets Inside: Keep wicker baskets in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Basements, garages, or extra rooms work as long as they stay dry. Don’t put them in hot attics.
Storing Wicker Baskets Outside: Cover outside baskets and put them under cover like under the roof overhang or porch. This protects them from rain.
Padding Protects Wicker Baskets: Cushion surfaces where baskets sit with stuff like blankets, towels, or bubble wrap. This prevents dents and scratches. Padding is especially important when transporting baskets to protect them from bumps.
Safe Transportation: When driving with wicker baskets, tie them down with straps or ropes so they don’t slide or fall over. Put furniture pads on all contact surfaces for extra protection. For long trips, use a truck or trailer to protect big or delicate baskets.
Also read: Basic Wicker Basket Care Tips
Protection and Maintenance
Protective Covers: Using covers on wicker baskets helps protect them. Outdoor covers block rain, sun, and snow. Indoor dust covers to prevent dust build-up when baskets are stored. Look for breathable material that won’t promote mildew or etching.
Weatherproofing: Apply a weatherproof sealant before winter to shield outdoor wicker from moisture. Reapply every 6 months. This helps prevent warping and color fading from rain and humidity.
Sun Protection: Too much sun will weaken and wicker over time. Apply an outdoor UV protector for a wicker that is exposed to direct sun. Reapply after cleaning. This keeps the wicker from cracking or fading.
No Mold or Mildew: Check stored wicker baskets regularly for mold or mildew growth which can damage the wicker. Increase air circulation and make sure areas are dry. To clean, use mild soap and water, dry completely, and apply a fungicide or baking soda to prevent regrowth.
Pest Control: Insects like moths or beetles could eat away at wicker. Look for eggs, bugs, or holes, and use natural pest repellents like eucalyptus oil or diatomaceous earth to keep pests away.
Cleaning Tips: For light dirt, vacuum or use a soft bristle brush. Soak heavily stained wicker in warm water and mild laundry detergent. Rinse well and air dry completely. Don’t use harsh chemicals which could damage the wicker.
Conditioning Treatments: Apply a conditioning treatment every 3-6 months to keep wicker supple. Look for conditioning oils that rejuvenate dried-out wicker fibers without leaving residues. Avoid petroleum-based products.
Maintenance Schedule: Inspect wicker baskets inside seasonally and outdoor baskets monthly. Note any repairs, pest damage, or fading. Deep clean annually before storage. Condition as needed based on environment.
Inspection Checklists: Create checklists to document inspections. Include items like the integrity of the weave, cracking or breaks in the wicker, rust or damage on hardware, and cleaning/conditioning notes. Checklists help notice small issues before they worsen.
Wicker Basket Repairs: To repair broken or loose wicker, use flexible caning to stitch areas. Reinforce weakened spots on the interior with screening. Reglue loose fittings or replace rusted hardware. Patch holes with new wicker splints.
Replacement Guide: Signs it’s time for replacement are extensive damage, rotted wicker that cannot be reinforced, or if repairs take up 50% of the basket surface area. Choose durable, weather-resistant wicker from a reputable seller.