Water hyacinth is a floating plant. Its stems are cut, dried in loose bunches for about two days, then braided into a thick, pliable cord. The cord holds its shape well, which is why the larger baskets are woven over an iron frame. Because the fibre is a natural material, colour, shape and size vary from piece to piece.

Everyday care

• Do not wash it under water. Water hyacinth fibre is unusually absorbent — in laboratory tests it takes up many times its own weight — so a braided cord stays wet in its core long after the surface feels dry, and any iron frame inside it will rust.
• For marks, dilute a neutral detergent in water, wring a soft cloth out well, wipe the area, then dry it in the shade somewhere with moving air.
• Do not use bleach, thinner or benzine. They strip the colour and leave the fibre brittle.
• If it picks up an odour, air it in the shade rather than spraying it.

Where to keep it

• Out of direct sunlight. UV light breaks down the lignin at the surface of any plant fibre, and the weave yellows and darkens as it does — quickly at first, then more slowly. A spot away from the window keeps the colour even.
• Away from steady heat or humidity, which cause warping and mould, and away from open flame.
• Use a liner before putting anything hot or wet inside.
• The darker dyed weaves can transfer colour through friction. On waxed floors and cushion flooring, put something underneath rather than setting the basket down directly.

Small fragments of fibre may work loose over time. Trim them with scissors rather than pulling on them.