Teak Care

Teak furniture requires little routine care and does not need preservatives or treatments to protect it from normal outdoor exposure. Left untreated, the surface gradually weathers from a golden tone to an elegant silver-grey patina. Periodic cleaning is usually all that is required.

Teak care at a glance

  • Rinse away loose dirt with fresh water.
  • Clean with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristle brush, working in the direction of the grain.
  • Rinse thoroughly and allow the teak to dry completely.
  • Do not apply teak oil or other preservatives as routine care.
  • Keep outdoor furniture off persistently wet ground, and use only a breathable cover if covering it.
  • Check exposed screws and moving parts periodically, especially on folding furniture and umbrellas.

What happens as teak weathers?

New teak can appear polished because natural oils rise to the surface after manufacturing. Sun and rain gradually soften that appearance as the surface oils evaporate. Natural grain variation, slight surface checking, and temporary water spotting can appear as the wood adjusts to changing humidity and seasonal conditions.

Untreated teak will gradually develop a silver-grey patina. This colour change is cosmetic. For a closer look at the process, read our guide to the silver-grey patina on teak furniture.

How to clean teak furniture

  1. Rinse the furniture with fresh, clean water to remove loose dust and debris.
  2. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild detergent, such as dish soap.
  3. Gently scrub the wet wood with a soft-bristle brush, following the direction of the grain.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water.
  5. Let the teak dry completely before covering it or replacing cushions.

For a neglected surface that has become very grey or grimy, light sanding with fine 220-grit sandpaper can refresh the surface. Work evenly and with the grain. Avoid solvents and harsh chemicals, which can damage the wood and may affect warranty coverage.

Spring checklist after a Canadian winter

Use this short reopening checklist before putting outdoor teak furniture back into regular service:

  1. Remove any cover and let the furniture air out fully.
  2. Brush away leaves and loose debris, then rinse the surface.
  3. Check exposed screws, joints, hinges, and moving parts; tighten only where needed and avoid over-tightening.
  4. Wash with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly.
  5. Allow every surface to dry completely before replacing cushions or covering the furniture.
  6. Confirm that the furniture is stable, sits away from persistently wet ground, and is not collecting standing water.

For layout and placement guidance, see Choosing Teak Patio Furniture for a Canadian Deck, Balcony or Backyard.

Should I oil my teak?

ARB Teak does not recommend applying teak oil to outdoor furniture. Teak oil is not required to protect the wood or extend its useful life, and it creates additional maintenance. It can also contribute to mildew growth and uneven colouring. Allowing teak to weather naturally is the simplest routine-care approach.

Removing grease spots

Use mild dish soap and a soft-bristle brush on the affected area. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water and let the furniture dry completely. Do not use solvents or harsh chemical cleaners.

Winter storage and covers

Teak furniture may remain outdoors through winter, but it should be protected from strong wind, heavy snow loading, persistently wet ground, and trapped moisture. If you prefer to store it, use a dry, unheated shed or garage when practical.

When covering teak, choose a breathable cover that allows ventilation. Do not wrap furniture tightly in plastic or a non-breathable tarp, because trapped moisture can encourage mildew. Store cushions indoors and keep them dry.

Screws, folding parts, cushions, and umbrellas

Check exposed screws periodically and keep them snug without under- or over-tightening. Pay particular attention to folding pieces and teak umbrellas. Before first use, wipe new furniture with a damp cloth to remove manufacturing dust. Bring cushions indoors during rain and allow both the cushions and teak surfaces to dry before storage.

Related teak-care resources