How to Clean Outdoor Teak Wood Furniture: A Complete Guide for Stunning and Lasting Results
The quintessential golden color and natural resistance of outdoor teak wood furniture is what we look for to upgrade our outdoor space. Because of its excellent resistance to weathering, this wood is an ideal outdoor material and therefore is much sought-after. But the elements can wear on its appearance over time.
If you want to keep outdoor teak wood furniture looking its best and extending its life, it is important to know how to clean it well.
This ultimate guide will help you to know how to clean outdoor teak wood furniture, from basic dirt cleaning methods to product recommendations, to in-depth maintenance tips.
We cover everything from basic maintenance to expert tips on preventing sun damage. If you're a new teak owner, here on the other hand, if you're a more experienced pro looking for more expert tips to keep your teak furniture looking good for as long as possible or simply here for a short refresher course, we've got something for you that will help keep your furniture looking good and stain-free all year round.
Importance of Cleaning Outdoor Teak Wood Furniture
Teak wood is well-known for its thick, sturdy nature and warm color, providing an ideal outdoor wood. So what is the importance of cleaning? Here are some key benefits:
Keeps Natural Colour and Luster of Teak
The shade of outdoor teak wood naturally fades from a warm golden brown to silver-gray patina over the years. This is a look some homeowners like but if your taste leans towards the 'natural' color, regular cleaning will help you maintain that warm, inviting tone.
Prevents Accumulation Of Things From The Environment
While teak can stand up to the outdoors, dust and pollen, as well as bird droppings and pollution, can cause a dull finish and create a layer of dirt that you don't want. Outdoor teak wood furniture benefits from regular cleaning to keep such accumulation at bay and preserve the integrity of the wood.
Keeps Mold and Mildew from Forming
Humidity or damp places can definitely trigger the growth of molds and mildew on teak if they are used in such an outdoor environment. When you clean it regularly with the right products, these problems will not appear, and then you can protect your furniture and have a good appearance.
Improves the Longevity of the Furniture
Investing time into doing clean will save you from long-term damage, cracks, and other forms of deterioration which will extend the life of your teak furniture pieces. If properly cared for, an item can last for decades, so it is an investment.
Step-by-Step Guide For Cleaning Outdoor Teak Wood Furniture
Whether you are performing regular upkeep or doing a deep clean, cleaning teak furniture can range from lightly to heavily intensive. This is a guide that is going to help you keep it in prime condition step by step.
Step 1: Assemble Your Cleaning Tools
Things Needed To Clean Your Outdoor Teak Wood Furniture:
- A bucket of warm water
- Gentle dish soap, or commercial teak wood cleaner
- Soft-bristle brush
- Sponge or cloth
- Gentle water pressure with hose
- Optional: teak brightener, teak oil
Step 2: Garden hose the furniture down first
First, start by hosing off furniture to get rid of loose dust, dirt and debris before applying any type of cleaning solution. That pre-rinse allows two things to happen: One; it makes for a better clean, and Two; it removes loose debris that would have scratched the surface.
Step 3: Use a very mild soap solution to clean
A little mild dish soap diluted in warm water is typically all you will need for regular maintenance cleanings. Soak a soft sponge or cloth in the solution and rub gently onto the surface of the wood, moving in the direction of the grain. Do NOT apply too much pressure, as this will destroy the wood fibers. If there are difficult areas or any built-up grime, use a soft-bristle brush and work that soap deep into the grain.
Step 4: Use a teak wood cleaner for deep cleaning
For a more thorough clean — particularly if you notice indications of a grayish color or also mold — treat with a teak wood cleaner. These cleaners are designed to dissolve difficult stains while rejuvenating the natural beauty of the teak. Be sure follow the instructions from the manufacturer to the letter. In most cases, the cleaner is applied via a brush or sponge, rubbed into the wood in a circular motion.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Spray with hose to rinse away all soap and Cleaner Residues after cleaning Any residual cleaner may harm the wood, so pay special attention and rinse every area of the furniture.
Step 6: Let it Completely Dry
Wipe off any excess water with a dry rag, then air dry your teak furniture completely in a spot where its not hit by direct sunlight. Drying in the shade is the best option, direct sunlight will dry out the wood non-uniformly and can also leave stain.
Optional Step 7: Use a Teak Brightener
If your teak furniture has begun to turn gray and you want it back to its original golden color a teak brightener may do the trick. Use the brightener according to the directions, leave it on for the necessary period and rinse well. Brighteners are optional and are mainly used by those looking to bring out the original color of their furniture.
Choosing Teak Wood Cleaner for Outdoor Furniture
For outdoor furniture, you will especially notice a difference with a dedicated cleaner designed for teak wood as it is exposed to the elements. Top Products to Consider:
Star Brite Teak Cleaner
Star Brite has a two-step process that's best for heavily weathered or stained teak. Clean Deeply In The First Part And Brightens In The Second Part, Thus It Is Ideal For Bringing Old Teak Furniture Back To Life.
Golden Care Teak Cleaner
A89 Cleans The TeakThis natural teak cleaner gets the dirt out without being too abrasive, which makes it a great eco-friendly option for outdoor use. The formula is eco-friendly and all furniture safe.
Bayes Teak Cleaner & Restorer
Bayes’ teak cleaner is designed for everyday use to help wash away dirt and reveal the wood’s natural beauty. It's also safe, meaning you can use it around animals as well as plants.
Better Boat Teak Cleaner
An affordable, eco-friendly option, Better Boat teak cleaner does double duty on patio furnishings and uses a pH-balanced formula for gentle, safe cleaning.
Homemade Cleanser (Vinegar and Water Solution)
For a more natural cleaning option, please use equal part water and white vinegar. Works Scented and exterior antibacterials; The watermelon-mold removal solution is greatwdense for light mildew and stains. Just remember not to use too much, vinegar is a natural dehydrator and if used in excess would make the wood dehydrated as well.
How To Maintain Your Teak Wood Outdoor Furniture Between Cleanings
Apart from regular cleanings, simple maintenance steps can go a long way to keep your outdoor teak wood furniture optimal:
Regular Dusting
Regularly dusting your furniture ensures that dirt does not accumulate on it and makes the furniture appear new. Wipe everything down with a soft cloth or feather duster weekly
Apply Teak Oil (Optional)
Teak oil is often used by some people to keep the golden coating of the wood but it is not obligatory. If you prefer to use teak oil, do so every few months, but do not over-oil the wood, which will create a sticky surface that collects dust and dirt.
Use furniture covers when not in use
Cover your furniture when not in use, so you minimize as much exposure to the external elements as you possibly can. Select covers that are breathable and avoid condensation under the cover, particularly during the rain season!
Avoid Pressure Washing
Pressure washing can be tempting, but the high pressure water can rip up the wood fibers. If you must clean them out, use a soft bristle and gentle hose rinse only.
Every 6-12 months, however, Outdoor Teak Wood Furniture Cleaning?
How often you need to clean will rely on climate, location, and personal preference. Some broad guidelines are as follows
Monthly Cleaning
If you live in a humid climate or repair rainfall clean outdoor teak furniture monthly to keep away mold and mildew. Periodic clean-up in these regions retain the furnishings in form.
Seasonal Cleaning
Seasonal (quarterly) cleaning is best for most regions. It gives you the ability to clean out any accumulation and keeps the wood in your home at a high-quality standard.
Annual Deep Clean
Once each year do a serious deep clean with a teak cleaner and brightener. It is particularly useful for outdoor furniture, as it removes stains and gives a new look to the wood.
Bringing Back The Natural Hues Of Aged Timber Furniture Outside
Teak naturally grays out in the open air as a result of the exposure to UV radiation. For those wanting to go back to the colour as new, here is how to clean paint:
Use a Teak Brightener
Teak brighteners used to cut through this gray layer and return teak to its associated gold coloration. Once you clean, apply the brightener, let it sit, then rinse very well.
Light Sanding
If the wood is weathered, then light sanding with a fine-grit sandpaper is recommended. If you are sanding on a surface, you should sand in the direction of the grain to avoid scratching. After the sanding, clean up with a teak cleaner to obtain a tidy and smooth appearance.
Apply Teak Oil or Sealant
Using an oil or teak sealant will keep it looking good once you restore the color. Oiling accentuates the color, while a sealant provides a layer of protection from moisture and UV rays. Select based on whether you want a more organic or polished look.
The Outdoors Teak Wood Furniture Clean-up Fails to Avoid
Teak wood care is simple, but there are also a few mistakes to avoid:
Using Abrasive Brushes
The hard brushes may damage teak. Use only soft-bristle brushes or cloths to protect the wood.
Skipping Rinsing
Not rinsing properly after cleaning results in soap left on the wood, and that can ruin it. This applies to any cleaner and be sure to rinse thoroughly with water afterwards.
Using Strong Chemicals
Aggressive solvents can cause a leaching of natural oils in the wood, resulting in dryness or staining. Do not use bleach or strong acids, just just teak formulated cleaners
Over-Oiling
Applying too much teak oil can create a sticky surface and collect dust. Only use oil when you reallly need to in order to keep the color.
Drying in Direct Sunlight
Do not place cleaned teak directly in the sun for drying as this will cause uneven drying and loss of color. Do not dry clean it, instead dry it in a shady place.
FAQs On How To Clean Outdoor Teak Wood Furniture
Is bleach safe to use for cleaning outdoor teak?»
Bleach should be avoided, however, as it will take the wood oils out of it and dry it out. Instead, turn to a teak cleaner labelled for the purpose.
Should teak oil be applied to the wood each time it is cleaned?
Teak oil is optional and generally to keep the color. If you prefer the original golden colour then use it as that's not required for the health of the wood.
Is it possible to leave outdoor teak furniture exposed?
Although teak is durable enough for outdoor exposure, a cover reduces the need for regular cleaning, and an additional layer of protection.
Use Teak Cleaner To Remove Stubborn Teak Furniture Stains
If you have heavier stains, apply a teak cleaner and scrub gently using a soft brush. Asn4: Never use the rough way to clean glass, it is scratched.
If you follow the right care tips mentioned above, that beauty shall last long.
Outdoor teak wood furniture needs cleaning and maintenance to keep looking good, maintain its original color and resisting forces. With the help of a teak cleaner, some regular maintenance and perhaps a little preventative action, your teak furniture will continue to be the star attraction of your outdoor living area. Now, if you love the fab golden glow that comes wrapped in new teak or if you prefer the weathered patina, good teak furniture care will help you take pleasure in your new teak furnishings for a very long time.