1. Evaluate the weaving and wrapping
When rattan furniture is high-quality and expertly constructed, you won’t be able to pick apart the weaving or wrapping. Inspect the furniture closely and see if you can pick the wrapping away from the frame or loosen the weaving in any place. If the answer is yes, steer clear. That rattan furniture isn’t the quality you’re looking for.
2. Test the tension of the rattan
High-quality rattan furniture should feel “bouncy” and strong. In other words, it should be able to handle you pressing on it with your hand (or sitting on it) without losing its shape and tension. Remember: rattan is one of the strongest materials in nature, and anything that sags, droops, or wilts under pressure isn’t authentic and isn’t worth your money.
3. Test the furniture by sitting or reclining in it
Finally, test the furniture by using it the way you would at home. Recline in the rattan chaise lounge to see if the material bites into bare skin or feels unstable or unsound. If so, it’s likely you’re dealing with a cheap piece of imitation rattan furniture.
Real, high-quality rattan furniture provides strength without sharp edges or “biting.” What’s more, it should hold its shape under pressure, and should feel solid and sturdy on the ground. While you can certainly dress the rattan furniture up with pillows or cushions to make it more beautiful and welcoming, you shouldn’t buy a piece of furniture that you feel like you need to drape in pillows just to make it comfortable and safe to sit on.
