For cleaning wicker, your garden hose is your most useful tool.
Both functional and aesthetically pleasing, a wicker porch swing lends an element of charm to your home. Due to its outdoor location, a wicker porch swing is constantly subjected to the elements. Many wicker porch swings are coated with a resin material that can help them hold up to the constant changing of seasons, making them much easier to care for. Does this Spark an idea?
Routine Cleaning
Keep your porch swing looking its best by removing any cushions and spraying it off with the garden hose. Allow it to air dry before putting the cushions back on it to avoid mildew problems later. This works well if your porch swing has gotten dusty or a little dirty. Remove small stains with a clean damp cloth. If you don't have time to get the hose, you can also simply wipe it down with a cloth to remove loose dirt and dust particles.
Thorough Cleaning
Every so often your swing will need a good thorough cleaning. Use the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and dust before washing the swing with soapy water and a clean cloth or sponge. Use a mild dish or laundry detergent to make the water sudsy. A small brush such as an old toothbrush can help you get into hard-to-reach areas where dirt may be trapped. Rinse the swing with running water from the hose and allow it to air dry.
Preventive Care
Wicker can suffer some fading if placed in direct sunlight, so keep this in mind when picking out a spot for your swing. Wicker can also become brittle in dry heat, so it may be helpful to hose it off periodically if it begins to feel stiff. Avoid sitting on your swing until it is completely dry, as the moisture tends to make the wicker pliable and it can easily become deformed.
Mold or Mildew
If you live in an area with high humidity, mold and mildew can become a problem. For mold and mildew on your porch swing, spray it off with the hose to dampen it and remove as much as possible just by rinsing. Scrub away the rest with a brush dipped in soapy water and rinse again. Wear gloves, glasses and a face mask to protect yourself while cleaning up mold and mildew. Spray the area with a weak bleach and water solution once the mold or mildew is gone to sanitize the area. A solution of ¼ cup chlorine bleach to a gallon of water is optimal. Keep the area damp with the solution for 15 minutes before allowing it to air dry.
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