What is the Difference Between Rattan and Wicker?

Wicker and rattan furniture are firmly back on trend. Their warm, natural textures fit beautifully into modern, Scandi and boho interiors, making them an easy way to bring a relaxed, organic feel into any room.

But if you’ve ever wondered whether wicker and rattan are the same thing, you’re not alone. The terms are often used interchangeably, which can make choosing the right piece a little confusing.

Below, we break down the real difference between rattan and wicker, what each one is made from, and how to choose the best style for your home.

What Is the Difference Between Wicker and Rattan?

• Rattan = a material.
• Wicker = a weaving technique.

The main difference between rattan and wicker is that rattan is a material, while wicker is a style of weaving. Rattan furniture will be made from rattan, a material derived from palm plants, while wicker furniture is woven from natural or synthetic materials, including rattan, bamboo, and reeds. 

Rattan furniture is always made from rattan, a type of climbing palm plant. Wicker furniture can be woven from many materials, natural or synthetic, including rattan, bamboo, willow, reed, PE or resin fibres.

This means:

• A wicker piece can be made from rattan, but not all wicker is rattan.
• A wicker item made from bamboo or reed may have different weight, durability and care needs compared to pure rattan furniture.

What is Rattan?

Rattan is a natural climbing palm found across Southeast Asia, with around 600 known species. Indonesia is the most common source.

Why is Rattan so Popular for Furniture?

• Strong and durable, yet naturally flexible
• Lightweight, making it easy to rearrange
• Beautiful natural grain that can be stained or painted
• Sustainable, as rattan grows quickly and is harvested by hand

Its versatility makes rattan ideal for chairs, tables, cabinets and woven home accessories.

Natural Rattan vs Synthetic Rattan

Both natural and synthetic rattan have their benefits; your choice depends on where you plan to use the furniture. Natural rattan should be used as an indoor material; however, rattan-style furniture is on-trend as garden furniture, where it can be beneficial to have synthetic rattan for an all-weather safe alternative. 

Natural Rattan

• Best for indoor use
• Offers a warm, organic texture
• Ages beautifully with the right care

Synthetic (PE) Rattan

• Perfect for outdoor and garden spaces
• Weather-resistant and low-maintenance
• Mimics the look of natural rattan with added durability

If you love the rattan aesthetic outdoors, synthetic is the smarter choice.

What Is Wicker? 

Wicker refers to the weaving technique, not the material itself. It’s one of the oldest forms of furniture construction, dating back to Ancient Egypt, where reeds and grasses were woven into baskets and furniture - many pieces have even been found in Pharaohs’ tombs.

Over time, wicker spread through Europe, and as rattan imports increased, stronger and more durable wicker furniture emerged.

Today’s wicker furniture may use:

• Natural materials: rattan, bamboo, reed, willow
• Synthetic fibres: resin, PE rattan, vinyl

This wide range of materials means wicker can be crafted for both indoor and outdoor use. 

Our Favourite Rattan and Wicker Furniture

Hapur Wicker Armchair

A classic wicker silhouette made from braided PE wicker. The Hapur Wicker Armchair from House Doctor is light, airy and perfect for Scandi or boho interiors. Use it as a reading chair indoors, or take it outside on sunny days.

Bloomingville Otto Circular Rattan Cabinet

Find an eye-catching focal point for your room in our Bloomingville Otto Circular Rattan Cabinet, crafted from fir wood and rattan. The Danish design brings a warm, natural feel that works excellently in boho homes. 

For more stunning pieces, see our full collection of rattan cabinets. 

Stella Black Wood & Rattan Bed

A bold yet beautifully balanced statement piece. The Stella Black Wood and Rattan Bed pairs a solid black-stained oak frame with a woven natural rattan panel, creating a striking contrast that feels both contemporary and effortlessly boho. Available in Double and Kingsize, it brings instant drama to a chic bedroom, offering a modern spin on a timeless rattan look.

Madrisana Acacia & Rattan Woven Chair

A calming, low-slung seat designed for slow moments. The Madrisana Acacia and Rattan Woven Chair combines the warm grain of acacia wood with a natural rattan weave that moulds to your body. Its angled legs and relaxed silhouette create a wonderfully reclined position, perfect for a quiet corner where you can unplug and unwind.

Cuun Natural Rattan Armchair 

Soft, versatile and irresistibly cosy, the Cuun Natural Rattan Armchair works beautifully in almost any room, from the living space to a bedroom reading nook. Its woven rattan frame adds instant warmth, while the curved form invites you to layer up with cushions and a throw. A simple way to create a serene, slow-living moment in your home.

Hapur Wicker Lounge Chair

Light, spacious and timeless, the Hapur Wicker Lounge Chair adds an easy, relaxed feel to your seating. Crafted by House Doctor, it combines sturdy construction with an airy wicker look that suits both indoor rooms and outdoor spaces on warm days. Style it with cushions or throws, and you have the perfect spot to stretch out, sip a drink or settle in with a book.

Love the look? Explore our full range of rattan furniture, including wicker and rattan dining chairs, at Accessories for the Home.