Use a soft scrub brush dampened with water and a mild oil-based soap, such as Murphy Oil Soap (about $2.50 for 16 ounces at supermarkets). Rinse by hosing down. For maintenance, hose down every few weeks to prevent dirt buildup in crevices.

Care Tip: Since inclement weather wears on all types of wicker, consider using vinyl covers when it rains. Real Simple likes the weatherproof furniture covers from Frontgate (from $150 for a chair cover to $24 for a chaise cover, www.frontgate.com).