How to Clean a Wicker Basket

Wicker baskets add a warm and cozy vibe to your home. But they do have one significant disadvantage: they consistently gather dirt and dust. 

Because of all the grooves and crevices, figuring out how to clean a wicker basket is a bit difficult. Fortunately, the pro cleaners on Homeaglow have a few tricks up their sleeves (and they’re willing to spill their secrets.) 

If you know how, it’s easy to clean a wicker basket in under twenty minutes. 

Whether they are dusty, smell like mildew, or have mold growing on them, we'll show you how to get your wicker baskets clean in no time. 

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How to clean a wicker basket

A wicker basket naturally has a lot of notches and grooves. Dust, dirt, and other allergens can settle and build a home in these tiny holes.

The type of material used in your wicker basket, as well as type and extent of the dirt buildup, will determine the method you use to clean it.

Figure out the basket material

Before you start cleaning, the first step is to figure out what your wicker basket is made of. All wicker baskets can get wet to some degree, but keep in mind that some kinds of wicker can withstand more water than others.

Assess the type of dirt

Your cleaning method will also depend on whether the wicker basket has mold, mildew, or is just dirty from dust and crumbs. In a minute, we’ll give you pro cleaning methods for each. Empty your basket and inspect it to decide which method to use.

Can wicker baskets get wet? 

All wicker baskets can get wet, but the degree of water resistance varies depending on the type of material used to make them.

Natural wicker: Natural wicker baskets made of organic materials like rattan, bamboo, or willow are more susceptible to developing mold or mildew if they are soaked for a long time or if they are not adequately dried.

Synthetic wicker: Wicker baskets made of plastic, resin, or vinyl are typically more resilient and water-resistant than natural wicker baskets. Although light rain and dampness won't damage them, continuous contact with water will result in warping or discoloration.

What you'll need to clean your wicker basket

Depending on your chosen method, you'll need some, if not all, of these items when you clean your wicker basket. 

• Microfiber cloth 
• White Vinegar 
• Baking soda
• Tea tree oil
• Toothbrush/cleaning brush
• Vacuum cleaner 
• Dishwashing soap or mild detergent
• A small bowl or bucket

How to clean mold off a wicker basket 

Seeing mold on your basket might tempt you to bring out those harsh cleaning agents like bleach, but these chemicals can make the natural plant components drier and more brittle. Instead, simple home-cleaning products like vinegar and water will do the trick. 

Method 1: Vinegar and baking soda

Vinegar is a natural, cheap, and efficient disinfectant and household cleaner. Baking soda absorbs moisture. Combining these two household items cleans the mold off your wicker basket. 

Follow these steps to clean.

Wipe off grime and dust

Before you start the cleaning process, wipe off dust and grime buildup. Use a vacuum with a hose and brush attachment to suction dust from the wicker's interior and exterior surfaces. 

If you don't have a vacuum cleaner, use a small, clean paintbrush to brush away dust. 

Prepare a cleaning solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and baking soda in a small bowl to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas of the wicker basket and let it sit for 30 minutes. 

Scrub thoroughly 

Use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to reach and scrub mold out of the holes and tight corners in the basket.

Rinse

Once the basket is clean, dip a microfiber cloth in warm water and use it to remove the baking soda and vinegar solution from the basket. 

Air-dry

After rinsing the wicker basket, allow it to air dry thoroughly before storing. Remember that a wet wicker basket is susceptible to damage.

Bonus tip: Baking soda and vinegar is one of our favorite cleaning combos. Use it to clean just about any item in your home, including faucet heads, kitchen sink drains, and more. 

Method 2: Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil effectively kills mold because it is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent. Follow these steps to clean.

• Mix two teaspoons of tea tree oil with two cups of water.
• Pour the solution into a spray bottle.
• Spray the affected areas of the wicker basket.
• Let sit for 30 minutes.
• Use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to scrub away mold.
• Rinse the basket with warm water and dry it thoroughly.

How to clean a dusty wicker basket 

Despite how dusty your wicker basket seems, gentle cleaning is all it takes to get it back to its original appearance. Here’s how it’s done.

Vacuum or brush away loose dirt

Empty the basket, then remove any loose debris or dust using a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.

Mix cleaning solution

Fill a basin with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Swirl the water to create suds.

Wipe with a soft cloth

Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water and wring it out until it's damp but not soaking wet. Use the damp cloth to gently wipe the wicker basket, working in small sections. Make sure to clean the crevices and hard-to-reach areas.

Rinse carefully

After washing the basket, rinse the cloth in clean water and wring it out well. Use the damp cloth to rinse the wicker basket, removing any soap residue.

Dry thoroughly 

Use a dry, soft cloth or towel to pat the wicker basket dry gently. Allow the basket to air dry completely before using or storing it.

How to vacuum crumbs from a wicker basket 

Vacuuming crumbs from a wicker basket can be tricky as the suction can damage the fragile wicker material. 

Set your vacuum to the lowest suction setting possible and use a brush attachment to dislodge crumbs from the crevices of the wicker. Ensure that you don’t press too hard, as this can cause the wicker to warp or break.

How to clean a wicker laundry basket that smells like mildew 

At some point in the life of your wicker laundry basket, it’s bound to smell like mildew from wet towels or clothes. Take these steps to remove the smell.

Clean basket with gentle detergent

In most cases, a solution of detergent and water will do the trick. 

Remove loose debris 

Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt or debris from the basket.

Wash with cleaning solution 

Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap or laundry detergent. Dip a sponge into the soap solution and wring it dry, then use it to gently scrub the basket, taking care not to saturate the wicker with too much water.

Wipe away residue

Next, dip a soft cloth in clean water, wring the excess water out, and use it to remove the cleaning product from the basket. Use a dry towel to blot away any excess moisture.

Eliminate odors with baking soda

Baking soda is great for absorbing odors. If your wicker basket still smells like mildew, follow these additional steps. 

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the basket 
• Let it sit for several hours or overnight
• Once the baking soda has absorbed the odors, shake out the basket

Use vinegar for persistent mildew smells

If the odor persists, use a vinegar solution to eliminate any remaining mildew smell. 

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle 
• Mist the inside and outside of the basket with the solution 
• Allow solution to sit for several minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth
• Dry your wicker laundry basket completely before using it again.

Clean your wicker baskets like a pro

Cleaning a wicker basket demands extra care and attention. However, by following the different cleaning methods in this article, you can effectively clean your wicker storage and laundry baskets, remove mold, and eliminate odors caused by mildew.

Need help keeping on top of your house cleaning tasks? With Homeaglow, you can easily book an affordable, top-rated cleaner in your area. Read reviews, compare your options, and schedule online in minutes.