Cleaning and Caring for Teak Furniture

Cleaning and caring for teak furniture should be done on a regular basis to ensure that your investment continues to look its absolutely best. Although teak is one of the few woods that can be left alone and will continue to provide the same strength, durability and great looks without any maintanance. But taking some time every few months can do a great service to your teak furniture. Below are some quick and simple cleaning tips and techniques.

To Patina or Not To Patina

Before you purchase any teak furniture, you should decide whether to allow your teak furniture to patina naturally to a silver grey color, or add a coat of teak oil to protect the golden brown color throughout the season. Generally, we recommend allowing your teak furniture to weather naturally and patina. This patina occurs when the top outer layers of the teak oil dries and protects the lower layers and core of the teak wood. It is relatively simple and hassle free to let your furniture patina naturally.

If you choose to keep the fresh golden brown color, we recommend using a teak oil treatment to lightly coat your teak furniture. If you choose to keep your teak furniture this golden brown color, you have to apply a teak oil treatment regularly, anywhere between two to four times a year.

General Cleaning

If you have not purchased any Teak Cleaning products, you can use a 2 to 1 ratio of laundry detergent with bleach and water. Carefully scrub your teak furniture with a soft bristle brush. Be sure to rinse the furniture off completely as dirt residue and any remaining suds can prevent your teak furniture from achieve the perfect patina.

Dragonfly Teak’s Teak Cleaner and Protector Kit makes this process much easier by giving you all the necessary products to complete your teak cleaning project.

Restoring Teak’s Natural Color

If you choose to restore teak to its natural golden brown color, there are many products that do this. Generally this step require the use of a base and then an acid. There is a specific procedure and you should contact the manufacturer of your teak furniture to get the correct steps to prevent any damage to your investment.