Furniture is an essential part of life and home. It is comfortable and enhances the look of your home. When choosing rattan furniture, you want to ensure that you have the best type and quality to match your desire, needs, and budget.
What is Rattan Furniture?
Various materials, designs, and styles are available in furniture. Rattan furniture is one of the most popular and trending types due to its beauty, durability, and comfort. Rattan is a type of palm that grows in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australasia. The plant is strong and flexible, making it ideal for furniture production.
Identification of Rattan Furniture
You do not want to get confused with other types of furniture when trying to identify rattan. Before buying, ensure you are getting the real rattan for your money. Rattan furniture appears like bamboo. But you can differentiate them with closer examination.
You can use these features to identify rattan furniture.
- Rattan is lightweight yet sturdy and comes in different colors like reddish-brown, yellow, and black.
- The bark of the rattan plant is used to make this furniture.
- Rattan furniture has a smooth surface because it is made from woven rattan peel.
- The furniture is often made without using nails or screws.
Types of Rattan
Originally, rattan is a natural plant that grows in the tropical forests of Africa, Asia, and Australasia. There are over 600 species of rattan plants. Out of these, only a few are used to make furniture.
Here are the types of rattan materials used in furniture production.
- Reed Rattan
This type of rattan material is quite popular and has a bright appearance. Reed rattan is flexible and ideal for crafting diverse furniture like chairs and tables. Furniture makers use the inner rod of the rattan plant to make reed furniture.
Reed rattan is among the most durable and long-lasting furniture. It can last long, and you can use it for indoor and outdoor furniture.
Apart from that, you can easily clean and maintain reed furniture. All you need is to wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
However, understand that this rattan can get damp faster as the reed is absorbent and does not have a waterproof coating. Therefore, you should take extra care of reed furniture if you live in an area with high humidity.
- Cane Rattan
The cane is the hard part of the rattan plant’s outer skin. Cane rattan is a popular type of rattan material used to make furniture like chairs, tables, stools, and cabinets. Cane furniture is durable. It can last for longer in most conditions.
Cane furniture is popular for outdoor use as it can withstand different weather conditions. The material does not absorb moisture, making it ideal for areas with high humidity.
You also have no reason to worry about maintenance because it is naturally glossy and resistant to dirt, water, and UV rays. All you need to do is wipe it with a moist cloth when it gets dirty.
Cane furniture is quite pricey compared to other types of furniture. But it is worth the investment as it can last for a long time.
What is Synthetic Rattan?
It is also necessary to understand that synthetic rattan also exists, made of plastic materials to recreate the look and feel of natural rattan. PVC, PE, and PU form synthetic furniture construction.
Apart from being cheaper, synthetic furniture is also low maintenance. It does not require much care and can last for years with proper use. You will also like its versatility, as it comes in different colors, styles, and designs.
Synthetic furniture is applicable for both indoor and outdoor use. The designs can imitate the natural rattan materials to fit into any use. You can choose your desired style without compromising on quality and durability.
How Do You Tell the Best Rattan Furniture?
Since furniture made of rattan varies in design, strength, and material, it is essential to determine the most suitable for your home. When searching for the best furniture, use the following tips.
The first thing you should consider is the material used to make the furniture. If you want furniture for indoor use, go for those made of reed or cane. Synthetic furniture is the best option for outdoor due to its resistance to weather elements.
Another thing to consider is the design of the furniture. If you want a modern look, go for those with contemporary designs. Pick furniture with intricate carvings if you want a more classic and elegant look.
Finally, consider the price of the furniture. Synthetic furniture is more affordable than those made of natural rattan.
Natural furniture is excellent for environmental conservation. You can also use it for a long time as it is very durable.
Summary
Buying rattan furniture is a great way to enhance the look of your home. But you should know how to choose the best type based on your needs and preferences. Consider the material, design, and price when choosing furniture. Your investment will surely pay off in the long run.