Busy work can be exhausting, but finally having a leisurely weekend calls for putting aside the heavy workload and enjoying the comforts of home.

Relaxing on a comfortable rattan chair on the balcony, soaking in the sunlight and gentle breeze while reading a book, is a perfect way to unwind.

Rattan chairs are both stylish and practical, making them perfect for the balcony as they can withstand sun exposure. Although not essential furniture, rattan chairs certainly add to the coziness of home life.

Rattan chairs, being handwoven furniture, tend to accumulate dust in the small crevices. Without regular cleaning, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria, compromising their breathability and comfort. So, how does one maintain rattan chairs?

1. Insulation from heat:

Rattan furniture can be either synthetic or natural. Synthetic rattan is easier to maintain, but both types require insulation from heat sources.

We know that synthetic materials soften under high temperatures. Additionally, synthetic rattan is not as sturdy as natural rattan, so care must be taken to avoid scratches from hard objects, which could affect its aesthetics.

2. Waxing to prevent discoloration:

One characteristic of rattan furniture is that it becomes brighter with use. Dust can be easily removed with a feather duster, while stubborn stains can be wiped with a damp cloth. After a thorough cleaning of white rattan furniture, applying wax effectively prevents discoloration.

3. Maintain ventilation:

Rattan chairs can absorb moisture, but excessive moisture can make them soft, loose in structure, and prone to mold growth in the weaving.

Therefore, especially in the southern regions and during the rainy season, proper ventilation for balcony rattan furniture is crucial. However, avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause rapid deformation or even breakage.

4. Avoid detergents:

Many homemakers use detergents as auxiliary products for rattan furniture maintenance, but this is a common misconception.

Rattan furniture can be cleaned with salt water, which maintains cleanliness while preserving the material's texture. Particularly, brushes can be harmful to natural rattan furniture, so caution is advised in future care.

5. Insect prevention:

If signs of insect infestation are detected on rattan chairs, using ground Sichuan pepper or ground chili as insect repellent is effective without causing harm to the chairs. Roast a mixture of half an ounce of Sichuan pepper and half an ounce of salt, crush it, fill the infested holes, and cover with plastic wrap to contain the odor.

After 24 hours, remove the plastic wrap, rinse the affected area with hot water to kill any remaining insects, and finally, dry with a soft cloth to prevent further infestation.

6. Avoid proximity to heat sources:

During winter heating, radiator heaters are detrimental to balcony rattan furniture. The rattan near the heat source tends to dry and become brittle, losing its flexibility and resilience after sitting, so remember to place a heat-insulating pad underneath.