.png)
What is HDPE Wicker? And How Do You Take Care of HDPE Woven Furniture?
- TH
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve been shopping for outdoor furniture, you may have come across the term HDPE wicker or PE rattan. It looks very similar to natural rattan, but it behaves quite differently.
So what exactly is HDPE, and how should you take care of furniture made from it?
Let’s break it down.
What is HDPE?
HDPE stands for High-Density Polyethylene, a strong and durable type of plastic.
In furniture manufacturing, HDPE is melted and extruded into long flexible strands that look like natural wicker. These strands are then woven over a metal frame to create chairs, sofas, and tables that resemble rattan furniture.
The big difference is that HDPE is designed to survive outdoor conditions.
That’s why many outdoor furniture brands use HDPE wicker for:
garden furniture
patio seating
poolside lounges
outdoor dining sets
It gives the woven look of rattan, but with much better resistance to weather.
Why HDPE Is Popular for Outdoor Furniture
HDPE wicker has a few practical advantages:
Weather resistantIt does not absorb water, which makes it suitable for humid climates and rainy seasons.
UV resistantGood quality HDPE is treated to resist fading under sunlight.
Low maintenanceUnlike natural wicker, it doesn’t require much care.
DurableThe material is flexible and strong, making it suitable for everyday outdoor use.
How to Take Care of HDPE Woven Furniture
The good news is that HDPE furniture is very easy to maintain. But a little care can help it last even longer.
1. Clean It Regularly
Dust and dirt can collect between the woven strands.
To clean it:
Mix mild soap with warm water
Use a soft brush or sponge
Gently clean the woven surface
Rinse with clean water
Let it air dry
For quick cleaning, a garden hose is often enough.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Strong cleaners like bleach or solvent-based products can damage the surface of HDPE wicker.
Simple soap and water is usually the safest option.
3. Check the Frame Occasionally
Most HDPE furniture is woven over aluminum or powder-coated steel frames.
Every now and then, it’s a good idea to check for:
loose screws
scratches on the frame
signs of rust (if steel is used)
A quick check helps keep the furniture stable and safe.
4. Use Furniture Covers When Possible
Even though HDPE furniture can stay outdoors, using protective covers when it’s not in use can help protect it from:
dust
heavy rain
strong sun exposure
This can help the furniture keep its color and appearance longer.
5. Be Careful with Sharp Objects
HDPE wicker is durable, but sharp edges can still damage the strands. Avoid dragging furniture on rough surfaces or placing sharp tools directly on the woven material.
Natural Rattan vs HDPE Wicker
Both materials are widely used in woven furniture, but they serve different purposes.
Natural rattan has a warm and organic appearance and is commonly used for indoor furniture and home decoration. HDPE wicker, on the other hand, is designed for outdoor environments where furniture is exposed to sun, rain, and humidity.
At Classic Home, we work with natural rattan for international export markets, creating furniture and home accessories that highlight traditional weaving techniques.
For the local market, our brand CHOF focuses more on HDPE woven furniture, which is practical for outdoor living spaces and easier to maintain in Myanmar’s climate.
Both materials have their strengths — the key is choosing the right one for the right environment.
Come See for Yourself
Want to see and feel the difference between natural rattan and HDPE wicker? We invite you to visit our showroom, where you can browse our full range of furniture, explore both materials, and find pieces that fit your style and lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for indoor rattan elegance or outdoor HDPE durability, our team at Classic Home & CHOF is ready to help you find the perfect match.
Our Showroom Address: No. 38, 37th Street, Lower Block, Kyauktada Township, Yangon, Myanmar.
Google map -
Comments