Caring For Your Cane

CARING FOR YOUR CANE

The product referred to as "cane" is the outer bark of the rattan palm vine. Rattan palm grows in several countries in the far east. It is extremely strong and durable. The Chinese used rattan palm vines to build suspension bridges, and the Persians used it militarily to make shields for their armies. The "whole " vine is used to build "Rattan" furniture. The inside of the vine (pith) is used to make wicker furniture. If it is treated to keep it supple, it can last for decades.

Though the outer surface is fairly impervious to solutions, the under side (back side) is fibrous and will soak up what ever is put on it. With this in mind, I suggest treating your cane annually with Lemon Oil. Simply apply the lemon oil to both sides of the cane using a soft cloth.

If your cane has already started to "sag", you can make it taut again. Using a soft cloth or spray bottle, dampen the back side of the cane with warm water, then allow it to dry. Some times more than one application of water is necessary. Once taut,treat with lemon oil to maintain.

It is not a good idea to leave a cane piece in direct sunlight for long periods of time. In winter, do not place your cane pieces directly next to a heat source. In both cases the cane will dry out and become brittle, causing it to break before it's time. Areas with high humidity and poor ventilation can cause the cane to mildew. Avoid these areas. If mildew occurs, wipe down the cane with a mild bleach-and-water solution. After it dries, treat with lemon oil.