All-Weather Wicker Furniture: What It Is and How to Choose Quality

All-weather wicker looks like natural wicker—the kind you'd see in a cozy living room—but it's engineered to handle rain, sun, humidity, and temperature swings without rotting or falling apart. When you see "all-weather wicker" or "outdoor wicker," you're usually looking at polyethylene (PE) rattan wrapped around a metal or aluminum frame. It's a smart middle ground between traditional wicker and plastic furniture: it looks natural and elegant, but it actually holds up outside. Not all all-weather wicker is created equal, though. Here's what separates solid pieces from stuff that falls apart in three years.

Natural Wicker vs. Resin Wicker vs. Synthetic Wicker

Natural wicker is made from plant fibers—rattan, willow, or cane. It's beautiful, warm to the touch, and has real character. But plant fibers absorb moisture, dry out and crack in arid heat, and eventually rot in damp conditions. Natural wicker belongs indoors or in covered porches, not in backyards exposed to weather.

Resin wicker (also called synthetic wicker) uses man-made fibers made to look like natural wicker. The most common material is polyethylene (PE) rattan, which is plastic extruded to look like woven fiber. It doesn't absorb water, doesn't rot, resists UV, and lasts years longer than natural wicker with less maintenance. When manufacturers say "all-weather wicker," they almost always mean resin or synthetic wicker.

Hand-woven vs. machine-woven: High-end pieces are hand-woven by artisans, creating tighter, more uniform weaving and better durability. Mid-range and budget pieces are machine-woven, which is faster and cheaper but sometimes has loose strands or uneven tension. Hand-woven lasts longer but costs 2 to 3 times more.

For outdoor use, resin wicker is your best choice. It looks like natural wicker but doesn't require the constant care and replacement schedule. If you love the look of real wicker and don't mind maintaining it, natural wicker in a covered outdoor space works—but exposed all-weather furniture should be synthetic.

Polyethylene (PE) Rattan: The Standard Material

PE (polyethylene) rattan is the standard for outdoor wicker. It's plastic—specifically, a polymer that's extruded into thin strands to mimic the look of natural rattan. The quality of PE rattan varies based on thickness, texture, and UV additives mixed into the plastic.

Thickness and durability: Budget all-weather wicker uses thin PE strands (under 2mm), which feel thin to the touch and break or fray easily. Mid-range uses 2 to 3mm strands, which are stronger and more durable. Premium pieces use 3mm or thicker strands, which feel solid and last many years without visible wear.

Feel the wicker when you're shopping. A strand should feel substantial and not bend or flex easily when you press on it. If it's limp or flimsy, it's low-quality PE that won't last.

Color options: PE rattan comes in natural colors (light honey, medium brown, dark brown) and grays that mimic weathered wicker. Darker colors hide dirt better than light colors, which is practical if your furniture sits exposed. Grays and dark browns are the most popular for outdoor use.

UV resistance: All PE rattan is affected by UV over time, but quality pieces include UV-blocking additives mixed into the plastic during manufacturing. These inhibitors slow fading and color change. Budget pieces skip the additives and fade faster. After 3 to 5 years, most PE rattan will fade slightly—that's normal. If fading is severe after one season, the piece uses low-quality plastic.

Frame Materials: Aluminum vs. Steel vs. Wood

The frame holds the wicker together and bears the weight. Frame material matters as much as wicker quality.

Aluminum frames: Lightweight, rust-proof, and durable. Aluminum is the preferred frame material for all-weather outdoor wicker. It doesn't corrode even in salt air or wet climates. Quality aluminum is thick (not thin and flimsy) and feels solid when you lean on it. Aluminum frames add a little cost but extend furniture life significantly.

Steel frames: Heavier than aluminum and will rust if not properly finished. Some outdoor wicker uses steel frames coated with powder coating (a baked-on enamel finish) to prevent rust. Powder-coated steel is durable, but you're paying for the corrosion resistance. If you're in a dry climate and willing to maintain it, steel is fine. In humid or salt-air locations, aluminum is better.

Wood frames: Some high-end outdoor wicker uses teak or other dense hardwood frames with woven PE rattan panels. This looks premium and blends natural and synthetic materials. Teak frames last decades with proper care. Wood frames cost more but create a luxury aesthetic. They're best suited to covered outdoor spaces or areas with seasonal use.

Mixed frame materials: Some pieces use aluminum legs and seat frame with steel or wooden armrests. This is fine as long as steel components are coated to prevent rust. Check that all metal parts are finished for outdoor use, not bare metal.

Lean on the furniture when shopping or take a look at the underside. Quality all-weather wicker feels sturdy, with no flex or wobble. Budget pieces feel cheaper—thin frames that move when you sit down.

Weaving Pattern and Density

How tightly the wicker is woven affects both appearance and durability. Tightly woven pieces look more refined and dense. Loosely woven pieces look airier and more relaxed, but they accumulate debris in the gaps and need more cleaning.

Tight weaving: Fine, closely spaced strands create a smooth, refined appearance. Tight weaving is harder to maintain because debris doesn't slide through the gaps—you need a vacuum or brush to clean it. But tight weaving also hides imperfections and looks higher-end.

Loose weaving: Larger gaps between strands create a more open, textured look. Loose weaving is easier to clean because you can rinse it and debris flows through. But it's also easier to see the frame and underlying structure, which looks less refined.

For outdoor wicker, moderate weaving density is ideal—not so tight that cleaning becomes a chore, but not so loose that the frame shows through. Look at the weaving pattern and ask yourself if you'd be comfortable maintaining it with a hose and brush.

Cushion Quality and Sunbrella Fabric

Most all-weather wicker comes with cushions—seat and back cushions that add comfort and color. Cushion quality varies wildly and often matters more to your experience than the wicker frame itself.

Cushion fill: Quality outdoor cushions use high-density foam rated for outdoor use (usually 4 to 6 pounds per cubic foot). Budget cushions use low-density foam that compresses after a season and never re-fluffs. Feel the cushion—it should be firm with some give, not mushy or rock-hard.

Sunbrella fabric: Premium all-weather wicker comes with Sunbrella cushions, which are solution-dyed acrylic made to resist fading, mildew, and staining. Sunbrella is an industry standard for quality. If the description says "Sunbrella," you're getting good cushions. If it just says "outdoor fabric" or "weather-resistant," it's probably lower quality and will fade or mildew faster.

Cushion covers: Removable, washable covers are a big convenience. You can take them off and clean them in a washing machine (gentle cycle, cold water) without removing the entire cushion from the frame. This makes seasonal maintenance much easier. Look for zippers or ties that secure the cover.

Cushion storage: Even outdoor-rated cushions should be stored indoors during winter in cold or wet climates. Budget for indoor storage space if that's your situation, or plan to replace cushions every 3 to 5 years.

What to Look for When Shopping

Construction and assembly: Quality all-weather wicker is assembled by hand or carefully by machine, with no visible gaps, loose strands, or uneven weaving. Check seams and joints for tight wrapping. Loose wrapping will unravel over time.

Weight and feel: Lean on it. Push on the armrests. The frame should be solid with no wobble or flex. Budget pieces feel cheap immediately—there's a real difference between quality and bargain outdoor furniture.

Frame finishing: Look at the frame where it's exposed (under the seat, on the legs). Aluminum should be smooth with no corrosion. Steel should be coated or painted. Wood should be sealed or oiled. Bare, unfinished metal won't hold up outdoors.

Cushion and cover quality: Press on the cushion. Is it firm or mushy? Look at the cover material. Is it Sunbrella or generic outdoor fabric? Can the cover be removed for washing? These details matter for long-term satisfaction.

Warranty: Most quality all-weather wicker carries a 3 to 5-year warranty on the frame and a 1 to 2-year warranty on cushions. Budget pieces often have no warranty or very limited coverage. A warranty gives you some protection if something fails prematurely.

Price Ranges and What to Expect

Budget ($200-$600 per chair/chaise): Machine-woven PE rattan on a steel or thin aluminum frame, basic foam cushions with generic outdoor fabric. These pieces work for occasional use and covered spaces. Expect to replace cushions after 2 to 3 years and possibly the entire set after 5 years.

Mid-range ($600-$1,500 per chair/chaise): Hand-woven or high-quality machine-woven PE rattan, aluminum frame, foam cushions with Sunbrella or premium fabric. These pieces handle regular outdoor use and last 7 to 10 years with basic maintenance. This is where you get good value for durability.

Premium ($1,500+ per chair/chaise): Hand-woven PE rattan or natural wicker with hardwood accents, aluminum or hardwood frame, high-quality foam with Sunbrella covers. These are investment pieces designed to last 10+ years. Often sold as complete sets (sectional, table, ottoman) rather than individual pieces.

For most homeowners, mid-range all-weather wicker offers the best balance of appearance, durability, and cost. You're not spending on luxury, but you're not compromising on materials either.

Caring for All-Weather Wicker

Once you've invested in quality all-weather wicker, basic care keeps it looking good for years.

Routine cleaning: Brush debris out of the weave with a soft brush or vacuum with an upholstery attachment. Once a month, rinse with a garden hose and let dry. This prevents dirt and mildew from accumulating in the woven fibers.

Mildew prevention: In humid climates, mildew can grow on synthetic wicker if moisture sits in the weave. Clean regularly and ensure good air circulation around the furniture. If mildew appears, spray with a mixture of vinegar and water (1:3 ratio), scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly.

Fade protection: PE rattan fades naturally over time from UV exposure. To slow fading, keep the furniture in partial shade or cover it when not in use. Apply a UV protectant spray made for plastic once or twice a year for extra protection.

Cushion care: Remove cushions in winter or cover them with a breathable cloth (not plastic). Removable covers can be hand-washed in cold water with mild soap. Air dry completely before returning to the cushion. This extends cushion life significantly.

All-Weather Wicker at Living Outdoorsy

Browse our all-weather wicker collection for quality pieces built to last. We carry hand-woven sets with premium Sunbrella cushions and aluminum frames that handle any climate. Our specialists can help you find the right style and durability level for your space and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does all-weather wicker last?

Quality all-weather wicker (hand-woven PE rattan on an aluminum frame) lasts 10+ years with basic maintenance. Mid-range pieces last 7 to 10 years. Budget pieces may need replacement after 4 to 6 years. Lifespan depends on climate, use frequency, and maintenance. Cushions typically last 3 to 7 years before needing replacement or re-upholstering.

Can all-weather wicker go in a salt air environment?

Yes, synthetic wicker itself is salt-resistant. However, make sure the frame is aluminum, not steel. Steel will rust in salt air even with a protective coating. Aluminum frames are unaffected by salt spray. Rinse salt-air furniture more frequently (monthly) to prevent salt accumulation.

Is hand-woven all-weather wicker worth the extra cost?

If you plan to keep the furniture long-term and use it frequently, yes. Hand-woven pieces are tighter, more uniform, and last longer than machine-woven. The extra $300 to $500 per chair adds several years of life. If you're replacing furniture every few years anyway, machine-woven is fine.

What's the difference between all-weather wicker and synthetic rattan?

All-weather wicker and synthetic rattan are essentially the same thing—PE plastic woven to look like natural rattan. "All-weather" emphasizes that it's designed for outdoor use; "synthetic rattan" describes the material itself. Both terms refer to the same product.

Can I leave all-weather wicker outside year-round?

The wicker frame can stay out year-round, but you should remove or cover cushions in winter if you live somewhere with snow, ice, or extended dampness. The plastic wicker itself is durable, but foam cushions absorb moisture and break down if exposed to winter weather. In mild climates, you can leave everything out.

Does all-weather wicker need a cover?

Covers aren't essential but extend the life of both wicker and cushions. A breathable cover (not plastic) protects from rain, dust, and sun while allowing air circulation. Use covers during off-season or if the furniture will sit unused for months. For regular use, covers are optional, but they help maintain appearance longer.