What is The Difference Between Rattan and Wicker? Pros & Cons

When you start learning about natural and sustainable home decor, you will surely come across the terms rattan and wicker. Both are popular in home decor products, but do you know the difference between rattan and wicker? In this article from Artera Home, we will explore rattan and wicker in detail, including the pros and cons of each, price and durability, to help you easily choose the right product for your living space.

What is Rattan?

1. Definition and Origin

Rattan is a natural material derived from the long, flexible vines of the rattan palm, a tropical plant found in Southeast Asia and parts of Africa. Unlike wood, rattan is incredibly lightweight and flexible, making it an ideal material for crafting furniture and decorative items. It’s highly valued for its versatility, strength, and eco-friendly nature.

At Artera Home, we use only the finest sustainably sourced rattan to create our handcrafted products. From rattan baskets to charming furniture pieces, the beauty and durability of rattan make it a popular choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

>> Read more: Rattan Material In Decor Home

2. Applications of Rattan

Rattan is commonly used to create furniture, such as chairs, tables, and sofas, as well as home decor items like woven wall basket decor and storage solutions. Its flexibility allows artisans to weave it into intricate patterns that are both visually appealing and durable. Rattan is also often used in outdoor furniture because of its resistance to weathering.

Rattan material 

What is Wicker?

1. Definition and Crafting Technique

Wicker is not a material in itself, but rather a weaving technique used to create woven furniture and decor items. The term "wicker" refers to the method of weaving, which can involve various materials, including rattan, bamboo, and willow,.. The technique creates a durable, flexible, and textured surface ideal for home decor items like baskets, chairs, and trays.

When artisans use rattan to create wicker furniture, it’s often referred to as rattan wicker. This results in a combination of the flexibility and natural beauty of rattan with the intricate patterns that wicker weaving provides.

>> Related: Wicker Accessories Elevate Your Home with Handcrafted Charm

2. Applications of Wicker

Wicker is commonly used in the making of decorative baskets, furniture, and storage containers. It offers a rustic charm and a timeless aesthetic that works well in various interior styles, from bohemian to coastal to farmhouse.

>> Read more: 10+ Big Wicker Storage Baskets Must-Haves For Your Home

Wicker decor items

What is the Difference Between Rattan and Wicker?

1. Material vs Technique

The main difference between rattan and wicker lies in the nature of the terms. Rattan refers to the raw material derived from the rattan plant, while wicker is the weaving technique used to create items from materials such as rattan, bamboo, and willow.

So when you see a wicker tray, for example, it may be made from rattan, but the term “wicker” refers to the technique used to weave the material into a piece of furniture. Wicker is essentially the process, and rattan is one of the materials that can be woven using the wicker technique.

Round Rattan Wicker Tray with Handles

2. Is Rattan or Wicker More Durable?

Both rattan and wicker are strong, but their durability depends on the material and how it's used. Rattan is known for being exceptionally strong and resilient. When woven into wicker products, it creates a long-lasting piece that can withstand daily use.

Wicker furniture made from rattan tends to be highly durable as well. However, wicker furniture made from other materials like bamboo may not be as strong or flexible as rattan wicker, especially over time.

At Artera Home, we ensure that our rattan and wicker products are crafted to be durable and practical, suitable for both everyday use and as statement pieces in your home.

>> Discover more: What Are Wicker Baskets Made of?

Rattan, water hyacinth and bamboo woven baskets

3. Aesthetic Appeal

The aesthetic of rattan and wicker differs slightly. Rattan furniture often has a clean, streamlined look with a modern or minimalist feel. On the other hand, wicker furniture typically has a more intricate, textured appearance that adds depth and character to a room.

4. Indoor vs Outdoor Use

Rattan isn’t ideal for outdoor use unless sealed. It may warp or rot in moisture. Synthetic wicker, however, is perfect for patios. It resists sun, rain, and humidity.

>> Read more: How To Waterproof A Wicker Basket for Long-Lasting Use

5. Maintenance Needs

Rattan requires gentle cleaning and protection from moisture. Wicker, especially synthetic, is easier to maintain. Just wipe with a damp cloth.

Rattan tray vs water hyacinth tray

Which is More Expensive Wicker or Rattan?

Generally, rattan products tend to be more expensive than wicker products, as the process of harvesting and preparing rattan can be more labor-intensive. Rattan is a natural material that requires careful processing to ensure durability and quality.

In contrast, wicker is a technique that can be applied to a variety of materials. While rattan wicker items are typically more costly due to the high quality of rattan, wicker items made from other materials like bamboo or willow may be more affordable.

>> Read more: Top 20+ Chic Bohemian Bedroom Ideas on a Budget Not to Miss

Rattan wall basket vs seagrass wall basket set

Pros and Cons of Rattan and Wicker at a Glance

Which One Is Better for You? Rattan or Wicker?

When choosing between rattan and wicker decor, a common question is, “Which is better for my home?” Each has its own advantages in both style and function, so your decision should reflect your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.

Rattan offers a natural, rustic charm—perfect for creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere in your home or on your balcony. Its organic texture lends a sense of calm, but since natural rattan isn’t highly water-resistant, it’s best used indoors or brought indoors during wet weather. For a more weather-resistant option, synthetic wicker is a smart alternative that retains the look of natural fibers but is more suitable for outdoor use.

Meanwhile, wicker (other than natural materials) is often favored for outdoor settings. Its tightly woven structure, available in a variety of finishes, adds character, and requires little maintenance. Lightweight yet durable, rattan items are easy to move and ideal for a comfortable, airy environment. Plus, they tend to be more affordable, making them an economical way to enhance your outdoor décor.

Rattan planter basket vs water hyacinth baskets

Bringing Woven Beauty Home with Artera Home

At Artera Home, we blend Vietnamese craftsmanship with sustainable materials. Our collections offer both beauty and function:

1. Stylish Storage Solutions

Our wicker baskets collection, handcrafted from durable seagrass and water hyacinth, are perfect for storing blankets in the living room, organizing toiletries in the bathroom, decluttering shelves, or even acting as beautiful cachepots for your beloved houseplants. 

>> See more: Top 10+ Wicker Blanket Baskets for Your Cozy Home 

Artera Home’s woven basket 

2. Textural Wall Decor

Go beyond traditional art and add a charming pattern to your walls. Discover the stunning Artera Wall Decor Collection, featuring intricately woven rattan wall baskets, plates and seagrass fans that make an instant statement on your bed or sofa.

>> Read more: The Best Wicker Wall Decor for Stylish Home 

Artera Home’s wicker wall decor

3. Functional Elegance

Woven decorative items blend beauty with utility. Use a handcrafted serving tray made from water hyacinth or rattan for serving drinks or organizing items on a coffee table. Protect your dining table with natural elegance using our woven placemats.

Artera Home’s wicker decorative accents

4. Green Living

House your plants in natural beauty with our Planter Baskets. The woven texture complements the organic feel of houseplants perfectly.

>> Read more: The Best Woven Plant Baskets to Elevate Your Indoor Space

Artera Home’s woven planter baskets

Why Choose Artera Home’s Woven Home Decor? 

When you choose a woven piece from Artera Home, you’re not just bringing home a beautiful decor item you’re making a meaningful investment in:

1. Heritage Craftsmanship

Every Artera piece is handcrafted by Vietnamese artisans who carry centuries of weaving tradition. Like a well-told story passed through generations, our decor items reflect authenticity, care, and cultural richness in every detail.

>> Related: Artera Artisans -The Masters Behind Handcrafted Home Decor

2. Eco-Friendly & Natural Materials

We thoughtfully select sustainable materials like water hyacinth and seagrass—renewable resources that add organic texture to your space while keeping the planet in mind. Think of it as decorating with beauty that doesn’t cost the Earth.

3. Distinctive & Ethical Design

No two Artera items are exactly alike. Each product showcases the subtle charm of handwoven work while supporting fair wages and ethical production in artisan communities.

4. Customer-First Experience

From thoughtful packaging to responsive customer support, we ensure your experience is as warm as our products. Enjoy easy returns and special perks, making every purchase with Artera Home feel personal and rewarding.

Artera Home’s decor products

In conclusion, understanding the difference between rattan and wicker is essential when selecting home decor items. Rattan offers a natural, durable material perfect for modern furniture, while wicker provides intricate textures ideal for bohemian or rustic spaces. Both materials have unique benefits, but ultimately, your choice should reflect your home’s style and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to invest in.

Explore Artera Home’s collection of rattan and wicker furniture, storage solutions, and decor items to bring timeless beauty and sustainability into your home today.