Any unpleasant odor emanating from wicker may make you wish to put the piece outside or eliminate it entirely. Whether the wicker is a basket, bowl or part of furniture, foul odors can be treated — securely — with fresh air, a mild washing or baking soda.
Deodorizing Less-Than-Fresh Wicker
If the wicker smells musty, there’s a good chance it is moist. Air out it outside, if you can, in dry, non-humid weather, for many days. No matter which type of odor, sprinkle baking soda over the wicker and permit it to sit for at least several hours or overnight. Vacuum the baking soda — and any loose debris and dust — with an upholstery brush attachment, picking a low-powered vacuum setting. Wipe down the whole piece with a mild soapy water solution, wringing the majority of the moisture out of the sponge or cloth first. Wipe again with a fresh moist cloth; then pat dry with a towel. If the wicker shows spots of mildew, causing the musty odor, wipe it with a mix of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water, again keeping the fabric slightly moist to avoid soaking the wicker. Permit the wicker to dry for many days, or around a week if it is a piece of furniture, before applying; otherwise, it may stretch out after the moisture treatment.