Natural vs Plastic Wicker: Best Wicker Furniture for Your Patio

Wicker furniture is one of those timeless staples of outdoor living. When you sink down into the comfort of a well-made wicker club chair, you're instantly teleported to coastal getaways and lazy afternoons in the sun. Can you taste the mojito already? And to bring that level of outdoor leisure and enjoyment to your backyard, you have to know which materials are going to serve you best. Natural wicker, woven from plant materials like rattan. Or plastic wicker, which is often called synthetic or resin wicker.

Today, the Patio Productions team has pooled all of our wicker furniture experience, so you can understand the differences between these two types of wicker.. and ultimately choose which wicker is best for your patio, poolside, or outdoor space.

Natural & Wicker Furniture: What to Know

Durability: Plastic wicker outlasts natural by an average of 15 years. If you're furnishing outdoors, this matters—big time.
Maintenance: Natural wicker demands attention every 6 months. Plastic? Just once a year.
Price Point: Plastic wicker can save you up to 40% over its lifetime.
Eco-Friendliness: Natural wicker and recycled HDPE wicker both help protect and preserve our planet, unlike virgin plastics.
Appearance: Natural has classic charm, but high-quality plastic wicker mimics the look nearly perfectly.
Best Use: Natural wicker is best indoors. Plastic wicker thrives on patios, decks, and poolside lounges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Natural vs. Plastic Wicker Patio Furniture

“Wicker” is a weave, not the material. Natural wicker uses plant fibers like rattan; plastic wicker uses synthetic resins (best: HDPE). Quality HDPE is weather-ready and mimics rattan’s look, while cheaper PE/PVC scuffs easily. Knowing the weave vs. material helps you compare durability and care. Patio Productions makes that choice simple.

HDPE resin wicker wins for outdoor longevity. Natural wicker hates moisture and UV, often failing outdoors in 2–3 years. High-quality HDPE withstands sun, snow, and humidity, lasting up to 15 years longer on average, with pigment running through each strand to hide nicks. It’s the clear outdoor pick.

Plastic wicker = low effort; natural = high touch. Natural wicker needs conditioning and weather-proofing about twice a year and prefers indoor storage. HDPE cleans with a hose and soft brush—no oils or sealants—and typically needs just an annual wash. Less fuss, more patio time.

Recycled HDPE often has the greener lifecycle outdoors. Natural wicker is renewable and biodegradable but short-lived outside and often needs chemical treatments. Recycled HDPE diverts plastic from landfills/oceans, remains 100% recyclable, and its long service life reduces replacements. For outdoor use, recycled HDPE is the sustainability sweet spot.

Natural indoors; HDPE outdoors (and indoors, too). Use natural wicker in dry interiors—reading nooks, bedrooms, sunrooms. Choose HDPE for patios, poolsides, rooftops, and commercial spaces. Pro tip: anywhere near moisture or harsh sun calls for HDPE to avoid cracking, fading, and mildew.

Premium HDPE closely mimics rattan textures. Modern, matte-finish HDPE weaves convincingly mimic natural fibers and come in many colors and patterns. Aesthetics are subjective, but from a few feet away, most people can’t tell the difference—especially with quality cushions and frames.

HDPE saves up to 40% over its lifespan; comfort = cushions. Longer life and low upkeep make HDPE the better value. Comfort mainly comes down to cushion quality, not the weave. For dialed-in style and durability, Patio Productions highlights brands like Harmonia Living and Ratana.

The Core Difference: Wicker Isn’t a Material

Let’s clear something up. Wicker is not a material; it's a weaving technique. In fact, the word 'wicker' is derived from the Scandinavian word “wika”, meaning “to bend.” As in, bending the materials together. And the stuff being woven? That’s what matters—and it’s either going to be natural plant fibers (like rattan or bamboo) or synthetic resins (like recycled HDPE).

Natural Wicker = Woven plant-based fibers (rattan, willow, etc.)
Plastic Wicker = Woven synthetic resins (HDPE, PE, PVC)

Natural wicker is made from woven plants or plant fibers, like rattan. You'll often hear "rattan" and "wicker" used interchangeably, but they're not the same thing.

For plastic wicker, we'll mostly be focusing on the high-quality plastic wicker we have most experince with: HDPE. Most well-regarded patio furniture brands that make plastic wicker use HDPE (you'll see why below). You can find less expensive options like Polyethylene or PVC out there, but they're far more flimsy. You can scratch the outer layer of PVC or PE furniture off just with your fingernail–not great for outdoor furniture.

99% of the time, outdoor wicker patio sets are made from synthetic resins like HDPE. It does a great job of looking like natural wicker, but it ages FAR better. But since we're here to compare these two, let's break down the different ways to compare natural and synthetic wicker. They might look similar from ten feet away, but they behave wildly different over time. And it's important to know how to identify quality outdoor wicker for your outdoor space.

Wicker Material Durability Showdown: Who Wins the Long Game?

Our team has talked with thousands of customers about wicker furniture. And more often than not, durability is the deciding factor for most homeowners—especially given the demands of patio furniture in an outdoor space.

a backyard patio with a natural wicker loveseat and end tables

Natural Wicker: A Delicate Diva

Don't get me wrong. The purist in me loves the look and feel of natural wicker materials. But they do come with some drawbacks.

Prone to cracking, splitting, and unraveling.
Hates moisture, hates UV rays, hates your backyard.
Can fall apart within 2-3 years outdoors.

The Dune Loveseat Set's recycled HDPE wicker in a Driftwood finish prevents fading and resists every type of weather.

Plastic Wicker (HDPE): Built to Last

Despite an inborn aversion to things that seem fake, I can't help but admire the practical benefits of well-made synthetic wicker furnitrue (especially recycled HDPE, but more on that below).

Withstands sun, snow, humidity, and everything in between.
Lasts up to 15 years longer than natural wicker on average.
Backed by 65% of homeowners who report high satisfaction with its performance in varied climates.
The pigment runs throughout each strand; meaning cuts, scratches, or dings don't show as much.

Winner: Plastic Wicker. Hands down.

Wicker Maintenance Requirements: High Touch vs Low Effort

Natural wicker is like that one friend who always shows up with a list of needs and emotional baggage. Sure, they're great, but you just know you'll end up giving them a lot of your time to keep them healthy.

Natural Wicker

Requires conditioning and weather-proofing twice a year.
Attracts bugs, absorbs moisture, and doesn’t like being cleaned with water.
Needs indoor storage or full coverage in winter.

Plastic Wicker

Clean it once a year with a hose and soft brush. Done.
Doesn’t stain easily, won’t grow mildew, and doesn’t need special oils or sealants.

Winner: Plastic Wicker. It requires 80% less maintenance.

The synthetic wicker Manhattan Sofa looks great while weathering any storm.

Weather Resistance: Bring on the Storm

If you’re placing your patio furniture anywhere other than inside a sunroom, this section is critical.

Plastic Wicker

Made from weather-resistant materials like HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene).
UV inhibitors protect against fading.
100% waterproof and mold-resistant.

Natural Wicker

Absorbs water like a sponge—good for growing mildew, bad for patio season.
Susceptible to cracking from sun exposure or frost.
Needs weather-proofing sprays or coatings (that still might not help enough).

Winner: HDPE resin wicker. It's the only realistic choice if you want to use it regularly.

Aesthetic Appeal: Is Natural Prettier?

Let’s be real—some people just like the look of real plant fibers. I get it. But you should at least give HDPE wicker a look (or even better, a test sit).

Natural Wicker

Warm, earthy textures.
Classic, hand-crafted charm.
Slight variations in weave and hue make each piece unique.

Plastic Wicker

Modern HDPE versions mimic natural rattan extremely well.
Available in a wide range of colors and styles.
Matte finishes reduce that “shiny plastic” look you saw in early 2000s models.

Winner: Your call. Beauty is ultimately subjective. And unless you’re inspecting it up close, it’s hard to tell the difference between premium HDPE and natural wicker these days.

The Arden Dining Set is made from certified sustainably-sourced teak and eco-friendly recycled HDPE wicker.

Plastic vs Natural Wicker Environmental Impact: What’s Greener?

This is where the wicker furniture debate gets interesting, and it's a topic that gets the Patio Productions team fired up. We believe outdoor living brings so much to everyones' lives–relaxation, enjoyment, better physical and mental health… the list goes on and on. It's why we got into the business of offering luxury-quality furniture at a more mid-range price back in 2006. And it's why we remain committed to the health of our planet. If we protect Mother Nature, she'll take better care of us, our children, and every generation to come.

That's why you'll find high-quality, planet-friendly furniture material options throughout our products. So, as you can imagine, wicker made from plastic is an important consideration. Because plastic is bad, right?

Yes, plastic continues to be a serious problem for our planet's health. It takes more than 400 years to degrade¹, humanity was expected to consume over 500 million tons of plastic in 2024 alone², and studies have found that 91% of plastics aren't recycled¹. I'm no math genius, but that's a LOT of plastic that's not going anywhere for centuries.

So, what's the point? Every eco-conscious shopper needs to know the impact of the options they're considering. On the surface, “natural” wicker sounds like the obvious eco-friendly choice, right? But dig a little deeper, and you might be surprised.

Natural Wicker

Biodegradable and made from renewable plant materials (rattan, willow, reed).
Typically harvested in Southeast Asia from fast-growing palms.
Processing can be low-impact—if done sustainably.

However…

Natural wicker has a short lifespan outdoors, leading to faster replacement cycles.
Requires chemical weatherproofing treatments for any hope of surviving outdoors.

Plastic Wicker

Usually made from polyethylene or HDPE, which is 100% recyclable—but not biodegradable (and will last for centuries in the earth).

However…

Recycled HDPE (the good stuff you'll find in many of our best products) is made from recycled plastic milk jugs and detergent bottles.
Manufacturers that use recycled HDPE keep hundreds of pounds of post-consumer plastics from filling up landfills and oceans every day.
It still remains 100% recyclable even after you dispose of it.
And it's incredible durability lets you use it for decades outdoors, reducing replacement waste.

Winner: Recycled HDPE Wicker. Recycled resin wicker is superior for long-term sustainability, especially if you're using your furniture outdoors and want to avoid a landfill full of chemically-treated rattan skeletons.

Ebel's Canton Dining Set offers the perfect blend of streamlined, minimalist seating and luxuriously comfortable deep seating.

Cost Comparison: What Will You Pay?

Let’s get down to brass tacks—or in this case, powder-coated aluminum frames and resin strands.

Natural Wicker

Hand-woven craftsmanship = higher upfront cost.
Often paired with hardwood frames = $$$.
Needs ongoing maintenance products.

Plastic Wicker

40% less expensive over its lifespan according to industry studies.
Can be machine-woven for affordability without sacrificing quality.
Lower cost of ownership over time (less maintenance, less breakage).

Winner: (Once again) HDPE Wicker. For both natural and HDPE wicker, prices can vary drastically between different manufacturers. But what doesn't change is the long-term return on your investment with well-made synthetic wicker. A longer lifespan means you reduce/remove replacement costs over time.

Comfort: Which Wicker Furniture's Comfier?

Honestly? The weave itself plays a minimal role in how comfy your seating is. It’s mostly about the cushions.

Natural wicker can feel a bit more “organic” to the touch—slightly warmer or softer.
Plastic wicker has a more uniform texture and doesn’t splinter or scratch when it wears.

Winner: Tie. The comfort level of most pieces of patio furniture comes down to the comfiest cushions. Choose high-quality, multi-layer cushions with UV-resistant, outdoor-fabric covers, and either wicker base will serve you well.

Design Flexibility and Style Options

Both types of wicker offer a variety of styles, but high-quality HDPE is the clear winner when it comes to customization and durability.

Natural Wicker

Best for traditional or boho aesthetics.
Limited to earthy tones unless painted (and paint chips over time).

Plastic Wicker

Comes in a broader range of colors: espresso, driftwood gray, matte black, snow white.
Weave styles mimic bamboo, seagrass, even rustic rope.
Easier to mold into curves and modern silhouettes.

Winner: Plastic wicker. For modern, modular, or transitional styles, HDPE wicker furniture brings more to the table (literally).

Wicker Design Tips: Where Each One Shines

Plastic Wicker	Natural Wicker
Outdoors: patios, porches, pool decks, rooftop lounges	Indoors only: reading nooks, sitting rooms, bedrooms
Indoors: sunrooms, mudrooms, even home offices	Decorative use: baskets, planters, accent chairs
Commercial: resorts, restaurants, hotels, spas	Boho-chic interiors: when you want that breezy, handmade look

Pro tip: If it’s going to be anywhere near moisture, go HDPE. Natural wicker is better kept away from the elements (and clumsy cocktail parties).

Final Thoughts: So Which Wicker Wins?

After years of trial, error, mildew, and sun-fading furniture tragedies, here’s our team's honest take:

Choose HDPE Wicker if:	Choose Natural Wicker if:
You’re furnishing an outdoor space.	It’s for indoor use only.
You want low maintenance and long lifespan.	That real-wood feel is an absolute MUST.
You need something pet- and kid-resistant.	You’re chasing that vintage, artisanal vibe.
You don’t want to repaint or repair every few years.	You’re comfortable with a little upkeep.

Overall Winner: Recycled HDPE Wicker is the best all-around choice for most homeowners today—especially if you’re buying for outdoor spaces and want furniture that won’t make you cry during the next thunderstorm.

Knowing Which Wicker to Buy

To hit that perfect sweet spot between cost, style, and value, Harmonia Living is the top brand for outdoor wicker furniture. If you're the type who's willing to spend the extra cash for a synthetic wicker piece that's also a design statement, check out Ratana's luxury wicker pieces.

And look, outdoor living isn’t just about the furniture—it’s about how that space makes you feel. Comfortable, at ease, ready to pour a cold drink and sink into a summer evening. Whether you’re hosting friends, herding children, or just enjoying your morning coffee in solitude, your furniture should make things easier, not harder.

Plastic wicker furniture lets you enjoy the outdoors without stressing over it. And that’s worth every penny.

If you have any other wicker furniture questions, the Patio Productions team is eager to meet you and give you all the answers! Or if you're ready to shop for your next wicker patio piece, explore our wide range of luxury wicker pieces. Or for those of you in the San Diego area, stop by our store and try some wicker out! We'd love to meet you.

Ready to shop Patio Productions' luxury resin wicker furniture?