Rattan furniture is having a major moment - and for good reason. It's lightweight, beautiful, and brings a natural warmth to any space. But walk into any furniture store (or scroll through our collection), and you'll notice two distinct types: indoor rattan and outdoor rattan. They may look similar, but they're built very differently. Choosing the wrong one can cost you — literally.
Â
The key difference: material
Indoor rattan is typically made from natural rattan — a tropical vine that's woven and finished by hand. It's breathable, beautifully textured, and brings an organic elegance to living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. However, it's sensitive to moisture and direct sunlight, which can cause it to crack or fade over time.
Outdoor rattan, on the other hand, is almost always synthetic — made from polyethylene (PE) resin that mimics the look of natural weave but can handle the elements. It won't swell in the rain, won't fade in harsh UV light, and can survive an Indian summer on your balcony without warping.
What about the frame?
Both types are usually built on a metal frame, but outdoor furniture uses powder-coated aluminium or galvanised steel — rust-resistant and designed to handle weight shifts on uneven surfaces. Indoor frames are often lighter and more sculptural, since they don't need to survive the outdoors.
Â
Choose indoor rattan if you want a statement piece for your living room, bedroom, or dining space. The natural texture and handcrafted feel is unmatched — and it will last years in a protected interior.
Choose outdoor rattan if you're furnishing a balcony, terrace, garden, or any semi-open space. It's built to handle humidity, rain splashes, and direct sun — a must in Indian climates.
Not sure? If the piece will occasionally move between indoors and outdoors, go synthetic — it's more forgiving. You can always style it with cushions and throws to look just as cosy as the natural version.
A quick word on maintenance
Natural indoor rattan just needs a gentle wipe and occasional conditioning to stay supple. Keep it away from direct AC vents and water sources. Outdoor synthetic rattan is almost zero-maintenance — a quick hose down or damp cloth is all it takes after a dusty week.