Natural vs Synthetic Rattan: A Buyer's Guide

One of the most common questions we receive from wholesale buyers, hotel specifiers and interior designers is: should I choose natural rattan or synthetic rattan? The answer depends on where the furniture will be used, what aesthetic you're after, and what maintenance regime is realistic for your application. This guide breaks down both options so you can make an informed decision.

What is Natural Rattan?

Natural rattan is a climbing palm native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, Africa and Australasia. Indonesia accounts for the vast majority of the world's rattan supply. The cane is harvested, treated, dried and then woven or bent by hand into furniture and baskets.

Natural rattan has a warm, organic character that synthetic materials cannot fully replicate. The variation in colour and texture that comes with a natural material is part of its appeal — each piece is subtly different. It is biodegradable, sustainably harvested when managed correctly, and has been used in furniture making for centuries.

The primary limitation of natural rattan is moisture sensitivity. Prolonged exposure to rain or high humidity can cause the fibres to swell, crack or develop mould. For this reason, natural rattan furniture is best suited to covered outdoor areas, conservatories, or indoor spaces.

What is Synthetic Rattan (PE Rattan)?

Synthetic rattan — also called PE rattan, resin wicker or all-weather wicker — is an extruded polyethylene material designed to mimic the look of natural rattan. It is woven over a powder-coated aluminium frame and is fully weatherproof.

PE rattan does not absorb moisture, does not crack in the sun, and can be left outdoors year-round in most climates. It is UV-stabilised to resist fading and can be cleaned with soap and water. For fully exposed outdoor applications — pool furniture, rooftop terraces, seafront restaurants — synthetic rattan is the practical choice.

The trade-off is aesthetics. High-quality PE rattan has improved considerably and can look convincing, but it lacks the warmth, natural variation and tactile quality of the real material. It is also a plastic product and not biodegradable.

Side-by-Side Comparison

A Note on Synthetic Rattan Binding on Natural Frames

A third option — and one we use regularly for custom orders — is a hybrid construction: a natural rattan pole frame with synthetic rattan binding. This gives you the structural warmth and character of a real rattan frame with the moisture resistance of PE wrapping on the joints and decorative elements. It's a practical choice for covered terraces and resort furniture where full outdoor exposure isn't required but some weather resilience is.

Choosing for Your Application

• Indoor furniture (residential, hospitality interiors) — natural rattan. Better aesthetics, lower cost, excellent durability in a controlled environment.
• Fully exposed outdoor furniture (pool decks, rooftops, beachfront) — synthetic PE rattan on aluminium frames.
• Covered outdoor areas (verandas, pergolas, sheltered terraces) — either works; natural rattan or hybrid construction is common and more cost-effective.
• Baskets and home accessories — natural rattan materials (Kubu, Koboo, Rattan Core, CL Rattan) depending on the look and application required.

At Nithya Boutique we manufacture in both natural and synthetic rattan, and we're happy to advise on the right material for your specific project. Get in touch or read more about our custom order capability.