Latest news with #patio
The Sun
15 hours ago
- General
- The Sun
I had weeds cropping up all over my patio but 30p trick blitzed them for good – and it's safe for your garden
A GARDENING fan has revealed a 30p hack for banishing pesky weeds from your patio for good. With summer now upon us, and the Met Office predicting glorious days ahead, many of us are likely making plans to invite friends and family over for garden parties or BBQs. 2 2 But before you have guests over to bask in the sun, you'll want to make sure your patio is looking its best. The warm spring weather mixed with occasional showers has been a perfect breeding ground for moss and weeds to grow in between patio slabs. The most obvious option to get rid of them is to pull them out of the ground, but this can be a strenuous and time consuming task. Searching for a solution to her patio predicament one budding Gardener posted in Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips, a public Facebook group with 537,000 members. The post read: "Hi, does anyone know how to get rid of weeds between patio slabs? "I think I have seen something about white vinegar. Many thanks." The post was flooded with helpful responses from garden lovers, keen to share their purse friendly hacks. The most popular recommendation was to use a cupboard staple, table salt, with some people suggesting adding washing up liquid and white vinegar. One person said: "Big tub of cheap table salt is about 30p last time I looked. "Dissolve it in some water and use that after you've pulled what you can up, then it goes straight to any roots... [they] stay away for ages." The secret feature you can use to stop draughts coming through your patio doors - and it's on some windows too Another person said: "Salt and white vinegar. "Tip is to do this on a warm sunny day, works a treat." A third person said: "Salt. It kills everything. "It's a safe chemical to use in your garden... but be careful." What is a weed? And why are they important? Simply put, a weed is a plant that grows in an area or space you don't want it to. Rebecca Miller, Fabulous' Associate Editor, and keen gardener, explains why gardeners need to become friends with weeds. "From nettles, buttercups, docks and dandelions - there are so many wonderful plants that are called weeds. And yet, as soon as the weather warms up, and we spend more time in outside, we want to pluck, pull and kill as many of them as possible, to make our gardens look perfect and pristine. " Weeds are essential to our ecosystem - many are pollinators, providing food to bees, bats, beetles, butterflies, moths and wasps. And without weeds, these animals wouldn't survive past early Spring. " Weeds also give back to nature - when they die and decay, their roots break down, feed microorganisms and insects, and make pathways and tunnels for worms. Bountiful life below means plentiful life above. " Weeds are also brilliant indicators of soil health - which is important if you want to grow anything in your outdoor space. When microorganisms and insects break down weeds, they release essential nutrients into the soil that plants soak up. They also store nitrogen and carbon dioxide in the ground, creating cleaner air and removing greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere, mitigating the climate crisis. "So before you pull out every weed in your garden, why not give a few of them a chance to grow and bloom, and see what enters your garden to enjoy the flowers..." A fourth added: "Then, I got a gardening tool that looks like a wire brush with a long handle, and went over the cracks where they had been growing but were now brown and dried and got them out. "Cheap and easy." Salt is a great natural alternative to toxic weedkiller. It works by increasing the levels on ions in the soil and increasing osmotic pressure, which means the weeds will be unable to absorb water and will dry out. White vinegar works in a similar way, as the acidity of it breaks down cell walls and removes moisture from weeds. Washing up liquid does not work on its own to kill weeds but improves the effectiveness of the formula by holding the salt and the vinegar on the weeds.
The Sun
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
I couldn't afford a new patio so transformed my mismatched grey slabs for just £100 – now it's fresh & bright for summer
IF your patio is looking a bit grubby and you're desperate to get it sparkling for summer, fear not, we've got you covered. A savvy DIY fan has shared the quick and easy trick she swears by for making stained patio slabs look brand new - and it's super simple. 2 2 Hollie, a solo homeowner who is known online as 'The Durham Derwent', explained that she couldn't afford to get a new patio, so instead, gave hers a makeover on the cheap thanks to a lick of paint. Posting on social media, the content creator who is from the UK, gave her 20,600 followers a close-up look at her patio before and after its overhaul, leaving many totally stunned. Alongside her post, Hollie beamed: 'A whole new patio would be lovely but for now this budget makeover has made such a difference.' Hollie later explained that her patio glow up cost her just £100. She said goodbye to her 'mistmatched grey' slabs and hello to a 'fresh and bright' patio. As well as looking beautiful, we're sure it bound to leave her guests and any eagle-eyed neighbours gobsmacked. The DIY enthusiast later explained that she used the Sandtex Ultra Smooth Masonry Paint in the shade Sandblast, which you can nab from B&Q or Wickes for just £35. Hollie also confirmed: 'I used 10L for two/three coats across the whole patio, side paths and back steps.' As well as giving her patio a fresh lick of paint, she also bought a stunning set of garden furniture to further add style and a luxe feel to her patio. Not only was Hollie able to keep the costs down, but now she has a patio area that's perfect for summer days and balmy nights. Get your patio sparkling with a £1.49 Wilko buy - as shoppers rave the 'results speak for themselves' The Instagram clip, which was posted under the username @ the_durham_derwent, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 127,000 views. Social media users were impressed with the patio's mega makeover and many were in disbelief as they had 'actually thought' Hollie had had "porcelain tiles laid.' How to repair broken patio slabs THE paving specialists at Simply Paving told Fabulous how you can repair broken patio slabs, without the faff. The experts advised: 'If you have a loose paving slab, then it's unlikely it can be lifted straight by hand. Instead, you will probably need a hammer and chisel to prise the paver free of your patio. 'To remove loose paving slabs without damaging your flagstones, carefully chip away at the mortar around the paving slab with the plugging chisel and rubber mallet until the slab comes completely loose. 'Then, slide the spade into the gap left by the mortar and prise the paver free of the patio. "As you lift it up, place a short piece of timber underneath the spade to act as a lever, making it easier for you while protecting the slab underneath. 'When the paver starts to give, place the cylindrical wood underneath it and roll the slab out of the patio.' One person said: 'Oh my gosh I neeeeed to do this! I thought you'd had a new patio laid.' Another added: 'This is amazing!!' A third commented: 'Wow! That's an amazing glow up! They look great.' Meanwhile, someone else beamed: 'Wow what a difference!' At the same time, another DIY enthusiast chimed in: 'It looks so good, much better." Garden features that add the most value to a house A well-kept garden can add anywhere between 5-20% to the value of a property. carried out a study and consulted 36 estate agents, garden designers and property professionals from across the UK. And the experts revealed the garden feature which adds the most value to a property is a shed. Shed - 82% Patio or paving - 76% Secure fencing, walls or gates - 72% Outdoor lighting - 66% Sturdy decking - 62% Water features eg. fountain or pond - 58% Modern garden furniture - 54% Artificial lawn/grass - 40%
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- General
- Daily Mail
Banish mosquitoes from your garden all summer with $40 off the sleek trap that shoppers say 'REALLY works': 'No more bugs in my yard!'
The joys of spending time outside are unmatched. There's nothing like soaking up the sunshine on the patio or enjoying a chilled beverage at golden hour with friends. If there's any downside to the experience, it's that mosquitoes and other unwelcome pests can really ruin the ambiance. Swatting at flies while you're trying to relax is a huge pain — but thanks to the Dynatrap LED Mosquito and Insect Trap, your summer is about to get a lot less buggy. Right now it's a phenomenal deal, too. It retails for $85, but you can score it for as low as $44.98 when you enter HELLO15 to snag an extra $15 off your first QVC purchase. Dynatrap LED Mosquito and Insect Trap Bugs, be gone! Never again worry about unwelcome outdoor pests thanks to this sleek and stylish insect trap that effectively manages mosquitoes, flies, wasps, beetles, yellowjackets, gnats, and moths. Available in three colors (forest green, granite, and slate blue), the trap has an ultraviolet LED light and a fan that work in tandem to lure and trap the insects. Enter code HELLO15 at checkout to snag yours for an extra $15 off. $44.98 (was $85) Shop The device is expertly designed to de-bug your patio or porch while adding a pop of subtle style to your space. That's right — this is a fashionable bug trap, and it fits in nicely with your setup instead of sticking out like a sore thumb. Along with being easy on the eyes, the Dynatrap works efficiently to clear your surroundings of the unfriendly critters that may otherwise feast on your food, land on your stuff, or bite you. It's all thanks to the built-in ultraviolet LED bulb, which commands the attention of the insects and draws them in for a closer look. As they venture towards the light, a fan pulls the insect inside, and traps them inside the attached basket. The bulb is powerful, yet not so bold that it will disturb you while you're outside. It's quick and simple to replace when needed, but is designed to last up to six times as long as standard fluorescent lighting, so those changes will be few and far between. Don't fear the idea of emptying the basket, either. It's basically like a miniature trash can. Simply press the button to eject this portion of the trap, then discard the contents in the garbage. It's mess-free, so you'll never make contact with the pests. The Dynatrap treats all unwelcome visitors equally. Whether you're concerned about mosquitoes, flies, wasps, beetles, yellowjackets, gnats, or moths, you can rely on it to effortlessly lure them to the light and trap them in the basket. The beauty of the device is that it puts an effective stop to insect breeding cycles. We all know how difficult it can be to control an infestation once it gets out of hand. This is an excellent ally that can have a huge impact on your efforts to maintain a healthy and clean space outside. What's especially amazing is that it has a half-acre coverage area. It's incredible even for super large yards, and is weather-resistant to stay in beautiful shape even if it's exposed to inclement conditions. Naturally, the reviews are glowing. 'This is the best bug catcher!' exclaimed one happy user. 'I did not get eaten alive this weekend!' 'The half-acre unit has done a wonderful job reducing flying insects as black flies, mosquitoes, and wasps. Working in the yard and the gardens is possible now! I love that the unit is light and preassembled,' raved another. A third shopper said, 'It REALLY works! No more bugs in my yard. It worked right away. I'm very happy with my purchase.' Don't miss this opportunity to snag an impressive $15 off the Dynatrap LED Mosquito and Insect Trap with code HELLO15. It's a must for summer!
Fox News
3 days ago
- Business
- Fox News
Spring-ready outdoor furniture that can transform your deck and yard
Whether you live in the Northeast, West Coast or anywhere in between, transforming your outdoor spaces into a hosting haven is essential for memorable spring and summer gatherings. Thoughtfully selected outdoor furniture enhances the appeal of your patio or deck and provides the comfort and functionality needed for entertaining guests. Modular furniture and water-resistant materials are gaining popularity, offering versatility and durability to suit various outdoor settings and climates. To assist you in curating the perfect outdoor retreat, here are 10 furniture pieces that combine style, comfort and practicality to elevate your outdoor living experience. Most parties involve food, so an outdoor dining set that accommodates multiple guests is a must. This Mainstays 7-piece set at Walmart includes a tempered glass-top table and six stackable chairs, all with durable steel frames and a weather-resistant finish. The neutral tones complement various outdoor themes and its stackable chairs offer convenient storage options for the off-season. Consider this outdoor dining set if you prefer resin over metal, which potentially involves less maintenance depending on your situation. A sectional couch is a popular indoor choice, so why not get one for your outdoor space too? This modular sectional by Birch Lane at Wayfair features handwoven resin wicker over a rust-free aluminum frame, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements. The Sunbrella cushions provide comfort and have fade-resistant properties. Its modular design allows for customizable configurations to fit your space. If its price tag is above your budget, consider this similar set from Costway at Walmart for under $1,000. Don't forget to grab an umbrella too! Many consider Adirondack chairs a backyard staple, especially around a fire pit. Crafted from recycled plastic lumber, this Adirondack chair offers the timeless appeal of wood without the maintenance. It's resistant to various weather conditions, including rain and sun, ensuring durability. The folding feature allows for easy storage and portability. If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. This expansive Hampton Bay offset umbrella at Home Depot provides ample shade and features built-in solar-powered LED lights to enhance evening ambiance. Its cantilever design allows for versatile placement without obstructing the seating area and the durable aluminum frame helps it withstand wind. If your mind is on accessories, you might also consider picking up a resin storage box for storing cushions, throw pillows, outdoor toys and whatever else you might need, like a colorful indoor/outdoor rug! You'll likely always need extra chairs if your guest count exceeds what your table allows. These Style Selections Pelham Bay stackable chairs are space-saving and feature a rust-resistant steel frame and a comfortable sling seat. Their neutral design complements various table styles, making them a versatile addition to any outdoor dining setup. Also, if you want a more casual setup, you can put the chairs around this Style Selections coffee table, add an end table or two. This budget-friendly set by Mainstays at Walmart includes a table, four folding chairs and an umbrella, offering a complete dining solution for smaller spaces for around $100. The steel frames and weather-resistant materials ensure durability, while the folding chairs provide easy storage options. And it comes in several different colors if you're looking for a more colorful option! If you prefer the earthy and chic look of rattan instead, check out this Costway set, which is more expensive but delivers a refined look. This sleek sectional by AllModern at Wayfair features thick cushions and bold lines, offering both comfort and a modern feel. The Sunbrella cushions are known for their durability and resistance to fading, making them a reliable choice for outdoor use. You can customize the configuration of this couch to suit your outdoor space best. What is the best accent for your fancy new sectional? These colorful outdoor throw cushions! They're waterproof and a set of four is under $20 on Amazon. This stylish wicker egg chair adds a contemporary and cozy touch to any outdoor space. Made with weather-resistant wicker and a sturdy steel frame, it includes plush cushions for maximum comfort. Its unique design creates a cozy nook for relaxation. Add an ottoman to kick your feet up for the ultimate backyard lounging experience! Bring your own book and beverage. Love the comfort of a sectional and the functionality of a dining set, but don't have space for both? This versatile set at Walmart includes a sectional sofa, dining table and two ottomans in durable wicker. The sectional provides ample seating with plush cushions for comfort, while the ottomans offer additional seating or can serve as footrests. The dining table features a tempered glass top, making it easy to clean and perfect for outdoor meals. This set's modular design allows various configurations to suit your space and entertaining needs. An offset umbrella is the ideal complement; you can even add a heat lamp for chilly nights! For more deals, visit Enhance your outdoor gatherings by huddling around this smokeless fire pit, designed to provide warmth and ambiance without the hassle and mess of traditional fire pits. Its compact size makes it suitable for various outdoor spaces and the included stand ensures safety on different surfaces. Don't forget the S'mores kit!
Telegraph
3 days ago
- Business
- Telegraph
The best rattan garden furniture for summer 2025, recommended with expert advice
With summer here, however fleetingly, now is the time to look for the best rattan garden furniture. You'll want garden chairs on the patio, the barbecue going and a bottle of rosé chilling in an ice bucket. Former Telegraph gardening writer Cinead McTernan is a rattan enthusiast. 'My modular corner sofa has absolutely transformed how much we use our outdoor space,' she says. 'I go for synthetic polyethylene rattan because it's so light and easy to look after. A quick blast with a pressure washer at the start of the season and you're ready to go.' As Cinead suggests, synthetic rattan garden furniture is an ideal choice because it's usually more waterproof and sold with a long warranty. Cinead bought her set from Sweeek but there are great selections at Maze and Outsunny among others, ranging from uner £300 to over £2,000. You can find our full reviews of the best rattan garden furniture below, followed by answers to frequently asked questions. But if you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at our top five: The best rattan garden furniture: At a glance How to choose the best rattan furniture There's an assumption that natural rattan is superior, Cinead says, but it's not weatherproof and is only really suitable for sunny days: 'Natural rattan does look more beautiful, but isn't as hard wearing and fades in the sunlight.' PE rattan (polyethylene – also known as synthetic rattan or polyrattan) can shrug off rain, snow and, as long as you give it an occasional light scrub with soapy water, mould and algae. 'The properties of the polymer PE are in between a plastic and a wax,' says Peter Bridgman, founder of Bridgman furniture store, which specialises in rattan furniture. 'That gives it a very natural look and feel. It doesn't look plasticky and it also has no toxins.' For more detail, read the FAQs at the end of this feature. How we chose the best rattan furniture The experts, including The Telegraph's own gardening writer of more than 10 years, Cinead McTernan, were our guide to the quality and durability of rattan furniture, but we also took into consideration affordability, style and a range of uses from sun lounging to outdoor entertaining. All the furniture below is chosen from the respective retailers' most popular products, at a range of budgets. Remember to check out our guides to the best patio heaters and fire pits, too. That way you can enjoy outdoor seating all year round. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our rigorous standards will always help you find the best gardening product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. All reviews are based on independent expert opinion or hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The best rattan garden furniture of 2025 1. Best Buy Rattan Garden Furniture: La Redoute Natural Rope Lounge Chair and Footstool Set Bucking the trend for polyethylene, La Redoute's light and airy chair-and-footstool set is made of natural rope on a steel frame, with wooden legs. It's not totally weatherproof, more of an indoor-outdoor piece to sit on patios in the summer and in the conservatory or a sunny room in winter. Key specifications 2. Best Value Rattan Furniture Set: Habitat 4 Seater Bamboo Effect Garden Sofa Set £350 Buy now Price at Argos Mid-century modern design (think Frank Sinatra's Palm Springs pad) is normally something you pay a Danish designer thousands of pounds for. Argos have managed it for under £500 with this bamboo-look table and chairs, although it'll need storing inside since the steel legs and polyester cushions won't be fully waterproof. It does need assembling, too — Argos say it requires two people. Argos also make some of the best solar garden lights to add twinkle to late nights al fresco. Key specifications 3. Best Rattan Sofa: OKA Weybourne 3 Seater Sofa Rattan furniture doesn't get much more high-end than OKA and this is the pick of their collection: a sofa big enough to seat you and a couple of friends for cocktails and inexpertly-barbecued sausages as the sun goes down. You'll need a reasonably sized outdoor space but, if you're an OKA customer, that's unlikely to be a problem. Key specifications 4. Best Rattan Bistro Sofa: John Lewis Salsa 2-Seater Garden Sofa, Natural £165 Buy now Price at John Lewis Just right for balconies or small patios, this chic rattan-look sofa has the Royal Horticultural Society's stamp of approval. It uses 3mm round synthetic fibres for a more classic look than flat-woven furniture, and matching chairs are available as a set of two. For a bolder look, choose the burnt orange colourway. Key specifications 5. Best Rattan Dining Set: Dunelm Santorini 4 Seater Conversation Set Good old Dunelm usually know what will suit the average home and garden and they've hit the target with this dining set: big enough to serve a decent meal but small enough to fit in a sunny corner. The inclusion of two tables – one large, one small – makes this set a versatile pick. Key specifications 6. Best Rattan Corner Sofa: DUSK Lisbon 2-Seater Garden Sofa Better known for its bedding, DUSK has launched garden furniture for the first time, debuting with a collection of modular sofas, available in two or three seaters, corner sofas along with pouffes and coffee tables. Every option is available in natural (shown above) or grey. The PE weave rattan is durable while the polyester cushions are finished with a linen effect. It's great value garden furniture and this rattan sofa is cheaper than alternatives of similar quality. Key specifications 7. Best Rattan Hanging Egg Chair: Cox & Cox Paxos Teardrop Hanging Snuggler £397.50 Buy now Price at Cox & Cox Telegraph garden-living expert Sarah Rodrigues loves Cox & Cox: 'Compared to some High Street brands, the prices are steep, but the timelessness of the pieces, combined with the attention to detail and construction, really does make them worth the investment. This year, I have my eye on the Paxos Teardrop Hanging Snuggler. I can just imagine being curled up in its cosy embrace with a book and an Aperol Spritz as the evenings get longer.' Technically, it's made from PE faux wicker, not faux rattan, but that shouldn't rule out this charming chair. Key specifications 8. Best Cube Garden Furniture: Pebble 9 Piece Rattan Cube Garden Furniture Set £429.99 Buy now Price at The Range Can you stack rattan furniture? It's a common question for those worried about storage. This Pebble set, sold by The Range, is designed with that in mind. They've managed to fit four chairs, a table and four stools into a four-foot cube into an implausibly neat configuration, which becomes a generous family seating suite when the chairs and stools are slid out from under the table. Key specifications Assembly required: Yes Materials: UV-resistant poly rattan over steel frame, glass tabletop, showerproof cushions with machine washable covers Dimensions: H73 x W110 x D110cm (table), H84 x W52 x D52cm (chairs), H35 x W41 x D41cm (stools) Delivery: Free delivery in 3 working days or longer 9. Best Outdoor Sofa: Nest Outdoor Sofa 'Right now the trend is for expanding your living space out into the garden,' says Stuart Isbister, who sells these gorgeous Danish-designed Cane-Line sofas. 'The outside becomes an extension of your interior design. Danish designers dominate the scene at the moment.' Although made of PE, the Cane-Line is hand-woven in Indonesia, the original home of rattan, and feels identical to the real thing while being completely weatherproof. Key specifications 10. Best Rattan Moon Chair: Furniture Box Moon Chair Moon chairs, otherwise known as Papasan chairs are perfect for creating a cosy reading nook in the corner of a garden. The tilted angle and thick, plush cushions means total relaxation. This FurnitureBox Moon Chair is made from handwoven wood and rattan over a metal frame. On top sits thick, dark grey cushioning which is 10.5cm thick and more than a metre wide. It curves to your body and there's even room for a spoilt dog or cat in the space next to you. Key specifications 11. Best Rattan Set for Sunbathing: Outsunny 5 Pcs Rattan Garden Furniture Set Brits no longer need to head abroad to catch a tan (as long as we time it right - early and late summer now seem to be the best bet for sun). Just head out to the garden and relax on suitably laid back garden furniture (with sun cream, of course). You'll struggle to find a rattan garden furniture set more versatile than this Outsunny set. It takes the shape of two seats with matching stools and a coffee table in the middle, but the stools can easily be used separately for extra seating. The frame is made from metal wrapped in rattan, for a solid structure, and the cushion covers are washable. Key specifications Assembly required: Yes Materials: PE rattan, steel frames, glass tabletop, polyester cushion covers Dimensions: H75 x W 67 x L71cm (armchairs), H40 x W51 x L67cm (footstools), H42 x W46 x L46cm (table) Delivery: 30 day returns, free standard delivery 13. Best Outdoor Rattan Bar Set: Maze Rattan Winchester Six Seater Round Rattan Bar Set £1,149 Buy now Price at Maze Living Nothing says al fresco living like an outdoor bar and this set from Maze comes complete with an ice bucket in the middle of the table. It adds a bit of fun and luxury into entertaining, whether for a BBQ or evening drinks. The set comes with one bar table, one ice bucket with a rattan lid and six bar chairs, all in the light wash Winchester rattan colouring. The bar stools all have foot rests for added comfort. Key specifications Materials: Polyethylene rattan, powder coated aluminium frames, clear tempered glass top and polyester cushions Dimensions: H108cm x W47cm x D56cm (chairs), H109cm x D120cm (table) Delivery: 14 day returns, free delivery in 7-10 days 14. Best Rattan Garden Storage: Pacific Bermuda Woven Large Garden Cushion Box £549 Buy now Price at John Lewis Where do you store all the cushions for your rattan furniture? You could get a plastic storage bin but this excellently built but lightweight storage holder is a better complement to your table and chairs. It can be left outside all year round, although it's recommended to use an additional storage bag inside it to keep cushions dry. The pistons on either side take the weight of the lid, making it easy to open and close. Key specifications 15. Best Weatherproof Rattan Garden Furniture: Bridgman Windsor Grey Square Dining Table £2,038 Buy now Price at Bridgman We love a rattan garden furniture set as much as anyone, but we can't help but sometimes think they look a bit samey. Our favourite thing about this set from Bridgman is that is provides the bare bones of a set. You can then either add Bridgman's waterproof cushions for an additional £319 or find your own cushions with a splash of colour. Key specifications 16. Best Space-Saving Rattan Garden Furniture Set: Orlando Rattan Garden Vase Set If storing your rattan furniture in the colder months is an issue, you might like this Rattan Garden Vase Set from Rattan Direct which all stacks directly on top of each other when not in use. The chairs stack by flipping one upside down and the table sits on top, creating a vase shape. It also comes with a free outdoor cover, for an extra layer of protection. As if all of this wasn't convenient enough, the chairs come pre-assembled. Key specifications Rattan garden furniture FAQs What is better: rattan or wicker? Trick question. Rattan is the material, wicker is the method. Wicker (from the Old Norse word vika, 'to bend') is the way of forming pliable natural fibres like willow, reed, grass or bark into furniture. In Asia it's often done with the climbing palm rattan. Rattan wicker was so extensively imported in the 19th and 20th centuries from south-east Asia that we ended up using the word generically for woven furniture. Is rattan furniture long-lasting? Most is, but not all. Garden furniture entrepreneur Peter Bridgman says you should beware of cheaper furniture where the synthetic rattan strands have been nailed onto the frame: when the nails rust, they will become weak points. Stuart Isbister, co-founder of outdoor furniture specialists The Worm That Turned, says there is another way to assess rattan furniture: look at the shape of the strands. 'Flat-woven products are lighter and cheaper, but they probably won't last as long as round weave. Flat weave will often sag in when you press your finger against it, particularly if it's hot, since plastic becomes malleable with heat, and in some cases brittle after a year or so.' Is rattan furniture waterproof? Natural rattan definitely isn't. Synthetic is, up to a point: metal parts can still rust and cushions can't usually be left outside. Some can, though, says Stuart Isbister: 'They can now be made from things like textilene, which is an outdoor furnishing fabric. They're a lot softer to the touch and they dry really quickly, so you can leave sofas outside without having to bring the cushions in.' Can rattan garden furniture sit on grass? It's not advised. Garden furniture tends to be heavy, which can weaken the grass beneath it and cause lasting damage. Mould and mildew from wet grass could also cause mould on the rattan, while moisture could cause rust on the metal frame. View the latest deals from John Lewis and La Redoute
