The origins of wicker furniture can be traced all the way back to the Egyptian Empire where furniture was made from the woven reeds and swamp grasses that grew along the Nile. While not one is sure Cleopatra ever lounged around on wicker patio furniture – or even had a patio for that matter – many homes enjoyed the timeless beauty of wicker patio furniture.

The actual term wicker is something of a misnomer. While many people associate wicker patio furniture with rattan, the traditional material this type of furniture is made from, the word actually refers to the weave itself. Wicker furniture can be made of out virtually any material that can be woven from natural materials like rattan and bamboo to plastics.

If you\’re lucky enough to choose rattan for your wicker patio furniture, you\’ll be overjoyed with its beauty, quality and durability. Rattan is a pretty amazing material that is strong and resilient. While it is pliable when it is heated, when it cools it will keep its shape.

As such, the furniture is a great solution for the deck, patio or balcony. The natural appearance of the rattan lends itself well to the outdoors, creating a connection between nature and your furniture. It nicely bridges the gap between formal and informal decor. It can be dressed up or dressed down to suit your own tastes.

Of course, its durability is another great selling point. It is really strong. Properly maintained, wicker patio furniture will last a long time, especially if it\’s kept on a covered patio or balcony or in a sunroom. That\’s because it is naturally resistant to the elements, especially moisture and mold. In most cases, all you need to do is wipe your wicker patio furniture off with a cloth or dust it occasionally.

The waterproof nature of wicker also means that if you spill something on it, the liquid will tend to just drip right through to the floor. With other woods, it may cause a stain, but not on wicker.

Even though wicker furniture looks substantial, it\’s easy to move it around. That\’s a real bonus if you like to rearrange the patio furniture now and then to suit your entertainment style.

Some manufacturers have taken wicker furniture to new heights, mixing traditional wicker with other materials. This can give the wicker a very fashion forward appearance that still have classic elements. For example, you may find a lovely wicker table to have a smoked glass top.

Other designs are modern or contemporary in their approach. They offer homeowners an updated look that is minimalist in design, but decadent in beauty and comfort. Today, you can get a wide range of wicker patio furniture, including chaises, sectionals, chairs, sofas, loveseats and tables.

If the furniture is done in an artificial rattan, don\’t think of it as being inexpensive. Artificial rattan offers additional benefits that natural rattan can\’t. It\’s particularly well suited to extremely harsh climates, as it is fade resistant and can take high temperatures with ease. An added bonus or wicker patio furniture made or artificial rattan is that it can be made in different fashionable colors that fit a wide range of decor.

The ability to get colored wicker furniture allows you to mix and match textures and colors, including the cushions. Many furniture retailers, particularly those online, allow you to custom order the wicker furniture right down to the cushion colors and sometimes, even the color of the wicker.

Wicker patio furniture is a great choice for today\’s homes. It manages to offer superior quality, comfort and timeless style in a package that is also durable and long lasting. Best of all, it is virtually maintenance free.

Author Bio: Jesse Akre owns Edenvale Shoppes and hosts numerous furniture and furnishings for any home whether it be teak chairs or towel bars styles and designs.

Category: Advice
Keywords: patio furniture,outdoor patio furniture,patio garden furniture,patio furniture sets,patio dining fur