Willow baskets are lovely, useful and enduring, but as with anything made from natural fibers, they do need a little TLC to keep them in their best condition. Here’s what you need to know to keep your wicker baskets looking their best and giving you years of service.
In this section, you will find advice and instructions on how to handle, clean, store and repair your handmade willow basket.
Introduction to Willow
The Willow is a living, pliable wood that can shrink, swell, or discolor if exposed to moisture or sunlight.
Malleability: Soaked or newly made willow is flexible. Dried willow will break when bent.
Natural Color Variation: Baskets may vary slightly in color, which adds to their character.
Density: Willow can be porous so it is essential to ensure it is dried well or it may rot, mold or bow.
Understanding these traits will allow you to take necessary measures to care for your baskets.
Daily Maintenance
Cleaning your baskets prevents dust and dirt from accumulating, and helps maintain the material.
Dust the piece with a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth.
If basket becomes soiled, wipe clean with a damp cloth. Do not immerse in water.
If necessary, rinse with lukewarm water and let the basket air dry.
Never use strong detergents or chemical products as they may cause damage to the fibers and affect the basket’s original color.
Mold and Moisture Prevention
The biggest danger to willow baskets is excessive dampness.
Dry baskets completely after washing or wetting.
Store baskets in a dry location with adequate ventilation.
Don’t store baskets in a damp basement, bathroom, or humid climates.
Keeping it dry will prevent mold, mildew and rot, and keep the basket structurally sound.
User Guidelines
The way you care for and utilize your baskets will also impact their lifespan:
Do not exceed the maximum load for any basket.
To avoid putting too much pressure on the woven joints, always lift baskets from the bottom instead of the handles.
If you use your basket for display, rotate it every now and again so that it doesn’t get worn on one side or faded by the sun.
When you need to carry food or liquids use liners to minimize the risk of exposure to moisture or oil.
Caring for the basket by handling it with care and not overusing it will keep the weave intact and the basket holding its form.
Where to Keep Your Baskets
When not in use, storage of the baskets is important:
To keep your basket in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.
Stacking: Be careful when stacking to avoid deformation. If stacking, place tissue paper or cloth between baskets.
Try not to stack anything too heavy on it, it will either be pressed out of shape or the weave will get damaged.
If storing for an extended period, make sure there is airflow so moisture cannot collect.
Proper storage maintains basket shape, color and longevity.
How to Stay in Form and Supple
After a while, some baskets may no longer retain their shape.
A quick way to re-moisten dried willow is to spritz it with water and re-shape.
Avoid over-saturating, as this can damage the fibers or lead to warping.
If you use the basket regularly, the basket will remain flexible, as it won’t have a chance to sit idle and become brittle.
Keeping the basket in form will keep it working and looking good.
Cosmetic Damage
Even if you’re very careful, some light wear and tear is unavoidable:
When the rods are small and broken or frayed, you can usually snip them off or tuck them back into the fabric.
If the damage is more extensive, you may want to seek the services of a professional basket weaver to repair it.
This is why it’s important to inspect regularly to address any issues before they become a real problem.
Fixing little problems when they arise prevents them from becoming big problems, and helps the basket last longer.
