Bamboo is an eco-friendly material that adds a trendy touch when used in furniture, but regular care is the key to keeping it looking its best. This plant is sturdy enough for many different types of furniture, and it’s an excellent option if you’re trying to make your home more sustainable. With the right upkeep, bamboo is durable enough to last for many years. Follow these tips to keep your bamboo furniture in top shape.
Weekly and Monthly Care
Bamboo furniture is generally low maintenance, but there are a few things you should do on a regular basis to keep it clean. Each week, dust it with a cloth or the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to keep it shiny. After dusting, wipe the furniture with a mild cleanser and a damp cloth, and then set it outside in the sun to dry. If you live in an area with low humidity, then plan to polish it monthly with linseed oil to keep it from cracking. Because bamboo gets brittle if the air is too dry, avoid placing the furniture next to a heating vent or fireplace.
Annual Care
Dirt or grime can accumulate on bamboo over time, so you need to give it a more thorough cleaning every year. Use a soft-bristled scrub brush and warm soapy water to gently scrub the furniture, and then rinse with a damp sponge. You don’t want to oversaturate the pieces, as this can cause the bamboo to swell. Towel dry and then add a thin layer of wax or oil to the bamboo.
Care for Bamboo Outdoor Furniture
It’s usually not a good idea to keep bamboo furniture outside for regular use, but it’s still possible to keep the pieces in good condition with more regular care. First, treat it with an outdoor sealant, and place it in an area on your patio that is shaded from the sun but isn’t too damp or wet. Wet bamboo furniture is prone to mold, so regularly check the furniture for spots. If you do find moldy areas, treat the spots with lemon oil. Bring bamboo furniture indoors for the winter, or make sure pieces are fully covered by a waterproof tarp.
Adding bamboo furniture is just one of many steps you can take to enjoy an eco-friendly home. Another way to furnish your home while being environmentally conscious is to re-use furniture rather than buying new pieces. With CORT Furniture Rental, you can rent the furniture you need for your home, a solution that’s convenient for you and good for the environment.
