a lot of the furniture, that's carried through RH, are brought over-sea from China, India, or Vietnam.

The wet isn't a problem unless it gets wet and stays that way, but you've already figured that out. This stuff is really hardy, though, so a good scrubbing now and again, with a mild detergent in a bucket of water would be a good thing. Keeping the wicker painted will help. Sun is what will cause the most deterioration.

I clean outdoor furniture and wicker baskets by first spraying with two different Melaleuca brand cleaners, then hose off with water. Let dry thoroughly. If glass (table top or similar) is involved, finish by using glass cleaner and paper towel on that surface.

luann beat me to the punch on this one. I was going to say "lowest bidder du jour." There are some Chinese factories that only make one style of furniture, say chairs, tables, bedroom furniture, etc. They might make for a number of different retailers or "manufacturers" with little to no difference other than possibly color choices or minor variances. Others might make specific style licensed to particular customers. So "Luann's Furniture Barn" might go over, they open their book and ask "Which you want?" BTW, if you do business with Wal*mart, they will come back every year and ask for a lower price from you. It's a tiger by the tail. For kicks, read "The Wal*Mart Effect."