How do I clean an antique rattan chair?

Dust the woven surfaces regularly with a soft brush or vacuum attachment to prevent dirt accumulation within the fibres. Avoid excessive moisture, wiping the material only with a barely damp cloth when necessary. Condition the wood frames with appropriate furniture wax while keeping the natural plant fibres dry and away from direct heat sources to prevent cracking.

Can these chairs be used outdoors?

Most antique rattan chairs were designed for indoor or sheltered garden use rather than permanent outdoor exposure. Dampness and direct sunlight degrade natural plant fibres and weaken the wooden frames over time. Keep garden armchairs and loungers in covered spaces like conservatories or porches to preserve their structural integrity and surface finishes.

What is the difference between cane and rattan?

Rattan refers to the solid climbing palms native to tropical regions, which are utilised whole for framing or peeled for various components. Cane specifically denotes the glossy outer bark stripped from the rattan vine and woven into mesh. While rattan provides the sturdy structural framework of the chair, cane forms the flexible, patterned surfaces of the seat and back.