subject: Look After Your Wicker Baskets | Wickerchina [print this page] 1). HANDLE BASKETS CAREFULLY Its best to handle your baskets with clean hands; free of lotion, oil or grease of any kind. Body oils can damage the baskets as can high humidity, by causing stains, mold and mildew. Also pick up wicker baskets by supporting the bottom, especially if it has any contents inside and wear latex or cotton gloves when you handle them.
2). CLEANING YOUR BASKET A feather duster or a clean, dry natural bristle paintbrush is the best way to remove dust from a basket. Or use the upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner with a nylon stocking placed over the end. For deep cleaning, dampen a white 100% cotton cloth (cotton baby diapers work well), very slightly with clean cold water and blot gently; then let basket air dry completely. Soaking a wicker basket in water or giving it a thorough shower can result in swelling of the fibers, and can contribute to color fading and loss of patina (a valuable asset for antique collectors).
3). ROTATE YOUR COLLECTION-KEEP IT CIRCULATING Move your collection of baskets around your room and house so that each wicker basket gets a change in humidity and heat, different exposure to sunlight or artificial light, and changing exposure to objects they might come in contact with, which might be deteriorating factors.
4). MAINTAIN A CONSTANT HUMIDITY AND TEMPERATURE LEVEL We all know how temperatures and humidity can fluctuate in our homes, but it can be very detrimental to your basketry collection. The use of air-conditioners and dehumidifiers for hot, humid conditions discourages mold and mildew growth and insect activity. Mold and mildew are very difficult to remove properly and can severely damage your baskets condition, quality and value.
