How to Water Seal Bamboo Wicker Furniture

All bamboo wicker furniture should be water-sealed to protect it from dampness, splashes, and the occasional light shower. Ideally, you should use rain covers or a patio awning over your bamboo wicker furniture, but the materials listed below will help make your bamboo wicker furniture much more water-resistant than before.

Step 1: Clean the Wicker Furniture Intensively

Use the long-bristled vacuum cleaner head to get into nooks and intersections of the bamboo wicker weave. For spots and stains, wipe with a damp cloth with vinegar or a mild detergent. Rinse the wicker surface thoroughly with cold water. Gently sand any stained spots with 220-grit sandpaper before sealing.

Step 2: Check the Bamboo Wicker Furniture for any Damage

Look over each piece of bamboo wicker furniture before you water seal it to ensure it has no wicker-weave or frame damage. If you find any damage, repair it before applying water seal.

Step 3: Apply Water Sealant

You can use either tung oil or a clear lacquer sealant for ample water protection. Tung oil can be obtained at a building supply center. It comes in a can and can be brushed on thickly with a paint brush. Make sure to apply the tung oil all over the chair, including the front, back and beneath. Clear lacquer can be put on either with a brush or from a spray container. Be certain to turn the chair and use firm but steady pressure on the lacquer can. You can apply tung oil this way as well, using a garden sprayer bottle, diluted with water in a 1:10 ratio before applying. Apply the tung oil twice a season, in spring and late summer. When using tung oil or furniture lacquer, do so outside or in a well-ventilated space.

Painting to Water Seal Bamboo Wicker Furniture

Several types of paint are effective as water-resistant coating on bamboo wicker when applied all over the item, including underneath the seat and all over the legs. These include oil-based paints and others recommended for wicker. Spray the paint from an aerosol can into the air near the chair so the paint falls lightly onto it. This saves time by minimizing drips, touch-ups and recoats. Apply 2 full coats and ensure the paint dries completely between coats. Repaint your wicker furniture every 3 to 4 years with a top-quality paint.

Splash on Marine Varnish for Waterproofing

Marine varnish will enhance the water-sealing abilities of any paint. You can also apply it directly to unfinished bamboo wicker. It will alter the color slightly but this will not be noticeable if you varnish the entire item. Allow 12 hours' drying time for the marine varnish.

Clear Coat with Spar Urethane

Spar urethane is a little different than polyurethane. It dries to a clear, more flexible finish, so it works well for wicker furniture that extends and flexes as people sit or lie on it. Spar urethane works well to prevent cracking and splitting. Reapply Spar urethane over the whole surface of the furniture piece every 2 years.

Avoid allowing your bamboo wicker furniture to stand out in driving rain or fog even after water sealing.