Why Spiders Are Attracted to Rattan Furniture & How to Keep Them Off?

If you've ever purchase gorgeous rattan garden furniture before, then you know just how much of a difference this lovely furniture can have on your garden, creating a relaxing haven. But the relaxing nature of life outside is tempered by the unpleasant surprise of spiders spinning their webs around your chairs, tables and cushions.

Well then, do spiders like rattan furniture? And what can you do to ward them off? Let's get into why spiders are attracted to your patio layout, how worried you should be, and the best, safest methods to maintain your rattan furniture bug free.

Do Spiders Like Rattan Furniture?

The short answer: not exactly. Spiders are not inherently attracted to rattan, either. They don't want to eat the material or nest in it. But, rattan — particularly woven – offers tiny crevices and textured surfaces that are prime spots for a spider to build a web.

This is why your garden furniture might feel like a hot spot for spiders:

Lots of Nooks and Crannies:

All types of natural and man-made wicker typically are woven patterns containing small holes throughout the weave. These provide perfect nooks and crevices for spiders to attach their webs and find refuge during the day.

Attractive Surroundings:

If you have lots of shrubbery, flowers or nearby light, the insects will naturally congregate there. Every insect is followed by a spider — so your furniture is just a convenient place to spin a web to catch their meals while they wait.

Sheltered Spaces:

Undisturbed, shaded places under tables and inside storage ottomans or under seat cushions are places where spiders like to wander.

Are Spiders Bad For Your Furniture?

The good news is: spiders are not going to ruin your rattan furniture. They don't chew it, scratch it, stain it. In reality, many gardeners enjoy spiders for eliminating mosquitoes and flies.

But webs, egg sacs, and the odd spider dropping can give your furniture a scruffier, less inviting appearance. Guests also may not feel comfortable with spiders creeping around on seating.

How To Get Spiders Off Rattan Furniture?

Not all of the spiders are meant to be killed — they are good for managing other pests. Rather, you're hoping to discourage them from selecting your furniture as a site for their webs.

Here's how to accomplish that efficiently:

Keep Your Patio Clean

• Cleanliness outside is the best deterrent in the long run.
• Wipe away crumbs & spills immediately: Dropped food is an invitation to insects, and bugs are spiders' favourite snacks.
• Sweep often: Dust, leaves and pollen gather in the furniture cracks and under tables.
• Wipe the surfaces: Wipe down furniture with a damp cloth once a week. Synthetic or natural rattan: Lots of warm soapy water for this material.

Trim Nearby Vegetation

• Study bushes, flower beds along with other areas near the patio because insects and spiders love to live there.
• Keep furniture at least a foot away from plants to restrict the movement of insects.
• Prune away dead leaves or branches where a spider could take cover.

Reduce Outdoor Lighting at Night

• Light draws moths, flies, and other bugs, which in turn draw spiders. Try:
• Using yellow "bug" bulbs, which are less attractive to insects.
• Installing motion-sensor lights so the space isn't always lit.

Use Natural Spider Repellents

Some smells will repel spiders without destroying them.

Peppermint oil spray: Combine 10 drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray a light mist on your furniture (spot test first to avoid staining).

Vinegar solution: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar. The acetic acid drives spiders away, but use it sparingly on natural rattan so as not to dull the finish.

Store Cushions Indoors

Plush furnishings proved a cozy hiding spot. When closed, it keeps cushions and throws fresh and spider-free.

Cover Your Furniture

If you're not using your patio furniture every day, you might want to consider splurging on covers that are both grit and dust resistant and yet breathable. This does not only deter spiders but it also shields against dust, rain and UV damage.

Regularly Move Furniture Around

Spiders prefer undisturbed locations. Every now and then, move around your chairs and tables. Cleaning often just requires a bit of a shake to flush any lurking spiders elsewhere.

What About Professional Treatments?

If you live in an area with an unusually high population of spiders, or if your garden has a long-standing insect problem, you may wish to contact a pest control professional. They can use safe treatments around your patio's perimeter to discourage both insects and spiders.

But, make sure you let them know that you have rattan furniture so that they do not use staining sprays.

How To Clean Spider Webs Out Of Rattan Furniture

• Sweep away cobwebs from intricate woven rattan with a soft brush or microfiber cloth.
• Vacuum with a crevice attachment for webs inside small spaces.
• Use mild soap and water to wipe away any remaining residue.
• Allow furniture to dry thoroughly in the sun to deter moisture-loving bugs.

Bonus Tips: Keeping the Rest of Your Patio Spider-Free

Set up a small outdoor fan near your seating area; spinning spiders don't thrive when the air moves.

Keep your patio or deck as free from clutter as possible.

Look under tables and chairs once a week, especially after rainy days, when insects are on the move.

Why the Quality of Your Rattan Furniture Matters

Quality is more important than you realize. The cheaper rattan furniture can sometimes have rough and uneven weaves, which trap more debris and therefore create perfect hiding places for spiders, bugs and other insects. Premium quality rattan furniture constructions have more solid weaves and less texturing, to help maintain your furniture.

So here's the answer to the first half of that question: Spiders don't really "like" rattan furniture —but, they're certainly fond of any shaded, rough space close to their prey. Keeping your patio clean, cutting back nearby vegetation and employing natural repellents are your best defence to keep spiders off your outdoor set.

If you are thinking of updating or adding an outdoor space to your home, think about investing in higher-quality rattan furniture that are a bit easier to maintain.

Rattan Garden Furniture Ltd is the UK's leading supplier of stylish high quality rattan garden furniture on the market. These collections have both style and comfort in mind but also understand the necessity for durability and easy care—keeping your home free from spiders (and any other general grime) much easier. Discover beautiful range of cube sets, corner sofas and dining sets and in return you will have a gorgeous, low-maintenance outdoor sanctuary.