Rattan Vs Wicker- What's the Difference (2023)

May 21, 2022

Here are some key differences between rattan vs wicker, in short rattan and wicker are often used interchangeably, but they are slightly different. Rattan is a type of vine that grows in tropical climates, while wicker refers to the weaving process of weaving material, usually from natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, or willow, into furniture or decorative items. In other words, rattan is a material and wicker is a method of using that material to make items.

• Materials: Rattan is a type of tropical vine that is often used to create furniture and baskets. Wicker, on the other hand, refers to a method of weaving rather than a specific material. Wicker can be made from a variety of materials, including rattan, bamboo, and even plastic.

• Strength: Rattan is generally stronger and more durable than wicker, as it is a solid material rather than a woven one. This makes it a good choice for furniture that will be used frequently or subjected to heavy wear and tear.

• Appearance: Rattan has a more natural, organic look due to its texture and color. Wicker, on the other hand, can have a more uniform and manufactured appearance, depending on the materials used.

• Care and maintenance: Both rattan and wicker require regular dusting and cleaning to maintain their appearance. However, wicker may be more prone to damage and may require more careful handling to prevent cracking or breaking.

• Price: Rattan furniture tends to be more expensive than wicker furniture due to its durability and natural appearance. However, wicker furniture can also vary in price depending on the materials used and the quality of the craftsmanship.

If there is anything that you ought to thank the 70s for, it's the rise in the popularity of wickerwork and rattan material. Who would have thought that this furniture would eventually become a classic that today’s homeowners can’t get enough of? For many furniture experts, the resurgence in popularity of wicker and rattan may be due to the relaxed ambiance they create and their vintage appeal. It's a classic style modernized by integrating fresh designs and innovative materials.

 So what’s in a name?

The confusion arises because ‘wicker’ is a catch-all term used to describe many types of furniture. Wicker pieces can be made from synthetic resin, reed, bamboo, and a host of other materials.

Wicker is probably one of the oldest techniques used to make furniture. The earliest evidence of the process dates back more than 3000 years - a wicker chair being found in the tomb of King Tut.

Rattan on the other hand, is the material obtained from certain palm species. It  is a vine similar to wood but has flexible stems and has the appearance of bamboo but unlike bamboo, is not hollow.

Nowadays rattan is primarily used for wicker furniture but is also used in rural areas as a building material, for the wicks in oil lamps, weaponry and sports equipment.

Synthetic Wicker vs. Natural Rattan

Both of these materials have distinct qualities and the choice will depend on what items the material is being used for. The differences are basically these:

∙      Natural rattan furniture is not suitable for permanent use outdoors.

∙     Synthetic wicker is much more resilient in outdoor settings. It has the appearance of natural rattan but is actually made of engineered resin. The term encompasses HDPE wicker, all-weather wicker, synthetic rattan, or resin wicker.

Which to use where?

∙      Synthetic wicker can withstand all weathers.  While rattan is designed for indoor use, make sure it is covered in waterproof material  if left outdoors.

∙      A part of the rattan plant, cane, is often used in weaving and webbing. Cane comes from the outer skin of the rattan vine and is known to be durable and flexible which is why it's a popular material for making furniture. Cane webbing is often used to create oriental accents on headboards and cabinet doors.

Wicker and Rattan - Care Tips

These are general maintenance tips to maintain your furniture in tip-top condition:

1. Rattan furniture should not be left out in the sun throughout the day. It has only minimal UV resistance, so easily cracks if it dries out and will fade.
2. As rattan is porous and quickly absorbs any type of moisture, if you have to leave it outside, make sure you cover it with a waterproof cover.
3. Synthetic wicker on the other hand, can withstand outdoor conditions but if you want to make it last, you should also cover it when not in use.
4. No matter what your furniture is made of, wipe it regularly using a soft, damp cloth or use a soft-bristled brush for items with complicated designs or hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.
5. Whilst it might be tempting, do not use a pressure washer. These can cause serious damage.  

Conclusion

In conclusion, rattan and wicker are two materials that are commonly used in furniture and home decor. While both are used to create woven items, there are some key differences between the two. Rattan is a type of tropical vine that is strong and durable, while wicker refers to a method of weaving and can be made from a variety of materials.

Rattan has a more natural look, while wicker can have a more uniform or manufactured appearance. Both materials require regular dusting and cleaning, but wicker may be more prone to damage and require more careful handling. Rattan furniture tends to be more expensive than wicker furniture, but the price of wicker furniture can vary based on the materials used and the quality of the craftsmanship.

Creating a boho home? Choose our Thai-made boho table lamps, boho floor lamps, bamboo pendant lights, or boho wall sconces all made from sustainable bamboo. 

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