Kitchen staple you can use to protect garden furniture and reduce cracking

07 March 2024 , 10:11

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No matter the quality of your rattan furniture, the good old British weather will always do its best to ruin it! (Image: Getty Images)

The days are brighter and longer, and the temperature’s slowly creeping higher; spring is definitely on its way.

As vitamin D-deprived Brits start to think about mowing the lawn and imagining those barbecues, it’s also a time to think about the state of your garden table and chairs. Good-quality rattan furniture should last for years thanks to its durable and weatherproof nature, but the unforgivable British conditions can take their toll, leaving it cracked, discoloured and faded.

Fortunately, garden specialist James Ewens at Alexander Francis has shared his single tip for protecting your outdoor furniture and it involves using a store cupboard staple. He says: “Most kitchen cupboards will have olive oil, and it’s not just great for cooking. Using a teaspoon of olive oil and a soft cloth can be a cheap, quick and easy way to protect your rattan garden furniture from the elements.

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“Take your cloth and olive oil, and rub gently into the furniture piece, focusing on where the cracking is worse. This simple technique can reduce cracking and add a desirable glossy shine to your furniture. It’ll look as good as new in no time! A far better method than learning how to reweave or investing in a brand new set!”

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James also reminds backyard lovers to avoid using harsh chemicals and cleaning agents on outdoor furniture, even if you think they could do with a good scrub.

“Between seasons and after use, it’s good to get into the habit of giving your rattan furniture a once-over with a vacuum or brush to remove dirt and debris.

“Due to the nature of the weave, things can get trapped or leave a mark, and while it’s tempting to whip out the spray and wipes, this can cause more harm than good. Just grab an old toothbrush, gentle soap and warm water, and loosen the dirt or debris before simply wiping away.”

Paul Speed