If you're a fan of wicker, you've probably spent a good amount of time searching for the perfect set of baskets to complement your home. So there are some basics things to be considered when caring for a wicker basket. First thing to pay attention to is where do you place your wicker basket? Make sure to keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and sun damage. The UV rays are damaging to your wicker just like they are to your skin, so keep them out of the sunlight.
It's a good idea to keep the functional uses for each basket the same all the time. For instance, if you have a basket in the kitchen that you use for your apples, oranges and bananas, only use it for fruit, vegetables or other food storage. Don't use it to store fruit sometimes and then rubber bands, twine, scissors or other utility items. Whatever the purpose of your basket, make sure you properly clean it and regularly. A cloth or duster works well. For more intense cleaning if there's been a spill, use a cotton cloth and a little bit of water. Never douse the basket with water and clean it, it will damage the wicker fibers in the long run. Another thing to water out for is placement of the baskets by extreme cooling or heating. Don't place them right by an air conditioning vent or a heating vent. The air blowing on the wicker will cause undue stress over the course of time.
If you live in a more wet or humid climate, you've got to watch out for mold. To prevent this a general dehumidifying of the room works well or general air conditioning. If you are going to hang your baskets, then be careful that you don't put too much weight in them relative to the strength of the handles or hanging apparatus. If handling the basket regularly around the house, then make sure to always fully support it with your hands on the bottom, so that the weaving doesn't break.
And last but not least, keep your baskets safe from any highly trafficked areas by moving them out of the way, especially from pets, small children, or rambunctious teens. So those are the basic of caring for a wicker basket, treat them well and you'll enjoy them for years to come!