How to Keep Rattan Storage Units Looking Their Best for Years

To keep rattan storage units looking their best for years, dust them weekly with a soft brush, clean them occasionally with a barely damp cloth and mild soap, and always dry them thoroughly afterwards. Keep them away from radiators, direct sunlight and damp corners, since rattan dislikes extremes of heat, dryness and moisture. Tackle small problems early, such as loose strands, sagging cane or the first signs of mould, and natural rattan will stay strong and attractive for a very long time.

Rattan has a relaxed warmth that suits British homes beautifully, from coastal schemes to Japandi bedrooms and bohemian living rooms. It is also more durable than many people expect, provided it is cared for in a way that respects its natural character. Whether you own a cabinet with woven cane doors or a set of rattan drawers, the advice below applies to most pieces you will find among modern storage furniture UK sale collections.

Understanding the material

Natural rattan comes from climbing palms. The outer skin is often split into thin strips, known as cane, which is woven into the panels you see on doors and drawer fronts. The inner core is used for frames and thicker sections. Both are fibrous, flexible and naturally responsive to the air around them.

That responsiveness is the key to caring for rattan. It absorbs and releases moisture, expanding and contracting slightly as conditions change. In very dry air it can become brittle. In persistently damp conditions it can soften, swell and develop mould. The aim of good care is simply to keep it comfortable.

Synthetic rattan, usually made from resin or polyethylene, is common in garden furniture and some indoor pieces. It is far less sensitive to moisture and sunlight, so the care routine is simpler. If you are unsure which you have, check the product information or look closely: natural rattan has subtle variations in colour and texture, while synthetic weaves tend to be uniform.

Where to place rattan storage

Placement does more to protect rattan than any cleaning product. A few simple rules help.

• Away from radiators and heaters: direct heat dries rattan out and can cause cracking or splitting. Leave a generous gap.
• Out of strong direct sunlight: prolonged sun fades the natural colour unevenly and accelerates drying.
• Away from damp walls: external walls in older homes can hold moisture. Leave a small gap behind the unit so air can circulate.
• Clear of cold draughts and condensation: windowsills that stream with condensation in winter are a poor spot for rattan.

Living rooms and bedrooms with stable temperatures suit rattan well. Rattan pieces look lovely alongside other natural materials in living room furniture UK schemes, particularly oak, linen and wool. In bedrooms, rattan drawers sit nicely beside wooden textile storage such as our blanket boxes UK, which share the same relaxed, natural feel.

Rattan in bathrooms

Rattan is a popular choice for bathrooms because it brings warmth to hard, tiled spaces. It can work there, but it needs extra attention. Good ventilation is essential: use an extractor fan during and after bathing, and open a window when you can. Position the unit away from the shower or bath where splashes are frequent, and wipe off any water promptly.

If you want natural texture in a steamy room, consider pieces designed specifically for bathroom conditions. Our range of bathroom storage units UK includes options suited to humidity. Our article on how humidity affects bathroom cabinets in UK homes explains how different materials respond to moisture and is useful background before choosing.

Weekly care: dusting

Dust settles in the gaps of woven panels and can dull the surface over time. A soft paintbrush, a clean makeup brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment on a low setting reaches into the weave without catching strands.

Work in the direction of the weave rather than against it. For drawers and shelves, remove the contents occasionally so you can reach the interior corners.

Occasional cleaning

Every few months, or whenever marks appear, give rattan a gentle clean.

1. Mix a small amount of mild washing up liquid into a bowl of lukewarm water.
2. Dip a soft cloth in the solution and wring it out until it is barely damp.
3. Wipe the surface, following the weave, without soaking it.
4. Use a soft toothbrush for stubborn grime in the gaps.
5. Wipe again with a cloth dampened in clean water to remove any soap.
6. Dry thoroughly with a soft towel, then leave the unit to air dry somewhere well ventilated, away from direct heat.

The most important step is the last one. Rattan left damp is far more likely to develop problems than rattan that is cleaned infrequently.

Protecting the finish

Many rattan pieces have a clear lacquer or varnish that helps resist moisture and staining. Look after this layer by avoiding harsh cleaners, solvents and abrasive pads. Use coasters under drinks and mats under plants, and lift objects rather than dragging them across the top.

Unfinished rattan can benefit from a very light application of a suitable furniture oil or wax now and then, which helps prevent it drying out. Always test on a hidden area first and follow the manufacturer’s guidance.

Dealing with common problems

Sagging cane panels

Woven cane can loosen slightly over time. Cane naturally tightens as it dries after being dampened, so lightly moistening the back of a sagging panel with warm water and letting it dry slowly at room temperature can help it tighten. Do not use a hairdryer or place it near a heater, as fast drying can cause splitting.

Loose or broken strands

A small loose end can be tucked back and secured with a dab of wood glue, held in place until set. Larger breaks are best handled by a furniture restorer, who can replace sections of cane without affecting the rest of the panel.

Mould or mildew

Small spots of mould usually indicate that the unit has been in a damp spot. Move it somewhere drier, then wipe the affected area with a cloth dampened in a mild solution of white vinegar and water, dry it thoroughly and allow it to air out. If mould returns, the room’s ventilation needs attention.

Dryness and creaking

Creaks and a brittle feel suggest the rattan is too dry, which often happens during winter when central heating is on. Move the unit further from heat sources. Occasionally wiping with a barely damp cloth can help, as can a bowl of water or a houseplant nearby in very dry rooms.

Fading

Uneven fading usually comes from sunlight striking one side of the unit. Rotate the piece now and then, use sheer curtains or blinds in sunny rooms, and accept that gentle, even ageing is part of rattan’s charm.

Using rattan storage wisely

How you use a rattan unit affects how long it lasts. Avoid overloading shelves and drawers beyond their intended weight, as the frame and woven panels can distort. Open woven doors by their handles or frames rather than pushing on the cane itself. Keep sharp objects and pet claws away from delicate panels where possible.

For storing blankets and textiles, rattan is a breathable choice that helps prevent mustiness, provided items are clean and dry before going in. Adding a few cedar blocks or lavender sachets helps keep stored linens fresh.

Seasonal care in British homes

The British climate shifts between damp autumns, centrally heated winters and the occasional warm, bright summer, and rattan feels each change. In autumn, when homes are often damp and windows are kept closed, check the backs and undersides of units for any musty smell and make sure air can circulate. In winter, central heating dries the air considerably, so this is the season to keep rattan furthest from radiators and to watch for creaking.

Spring is a good time for a thorough clean, once windows can be opened to help everything dry quickly. In summer, draw blinds or curtains during the brightest part of the day if the unit sits in a sunny room. These small adjustments through the year do more to extend the life of rattan than any single treatment.

A simple yearly check

Once a year, take a few minutes to inspect your rattan pieces closely. Look for loose strands, gaps in the weave, wobbly joints and any signs of damp. Tighten screws on hinges and handles, and deal with small issues before they become larger ones. This short routine, combined with sensible placement and gentle cleaning, is what keeps rattan looking good for many years.

Rattan rewards a little care with warmth and character that develops beautifully with age. To explore natural and modern storage for every room, visit Furniture in Fashion.

Frequently asked questions

How do you clean rattan storage furniture?

Dust weekly with a soft brush, then clean occasionally with a barely damp cloth and a little mild soap. Wipe away soap with clean water and dry the piece thoroughly before letting it air dry away from heat.

Can rattan furniture go in a bathroom?

It can, but the room needs good ventilation and the unit should sit away from direct splashes. Wipe off moisture promptly and keep an eye out for any signs of mould.

How do I tighten a sagging cane panel?

Lightly dampen the back of the panel with warm water and let it dry slowly at room temperature. Cane tightens as it dries. Avoid heat sources, which can cause splitting.

Why is my rattan cracking?

Cracking usually means the rattan is too dry, often from sitting near a radiator or in strong sun. Move it to a more stable spot and avoid direct heat.