How to clean teak garden furniture.

 

Teak is a popular choice for garden furniture as it is incredibly easy to clean. This versatile hardwood will last a lifetime, with minimal effort needed to keep it looking its best. If you are looking to clean your teak garden furniture, here are our top tips!

When should I clean my teak outdoor furniture?

Teak only needs to be properly cleaned once a year. If you are planning on using your garden set more in the summer, we recommend cleaning yours in the spring to ensure it’s in top condition for entertaining. 

Cleaning teak garden furniture 

If you’re ready to clean your teak garden furniture, make sure you choose a day that is clear and dry. A light breeze is ideal for ensuring the teak dries quickly after washing. You can spend money on specialist teak wood cleaners, however, in our opinion, the best solution for the job is soapy water and a splash of white vinegar. 

Make up the soapy solution and scrub your furniture with a hard bristle brush. Once covered, use a hose to rinse and lift any stubborn stains such as bird droppings. For stains that won’t shift. Take a piece of sandpaper and lightly sand the stain until it lifts. Don’t worry too much about leaving lighter patches on the wood, these will eventually even out. 

We do not recommend using a pressure or jet washer on your teak garden furniture. The power from these machines can strip the natural oils from the wood and even loosen the joints. 

Once your furniture is clean and dry, you can then apply a teak treatment. This is optional but it is a great way to maintain the brown colour of the wood. Find out more about treating your teak in our Caring for Teak Garden Furniture guide. 

How to clean food and drink spills from teak furniture

Spillages happen, especially when you're eating outdoors. At some point food or drink will reach the surface of your teak, however, it’s easy to take care of it. Teak is a very absorbent wood, so you need to act fast! Oil based salad dressings, wine and grease can all leave stains, so use a piece of kitchen roll to blot up as much of the spill as possible. Once the area is dry, lightly sand the spot to remove any remaining residue.

How to get rid of mould on teak outdoor furniture

Mould is a common issue with teak furniture, leaving your garden set looking dirty. If you spot any black mould, we advise cleaning it as soon as possible. Using a solution of soapy water and a splash of bleach, clean the furniture thoroughly, using a scrubbing brush on the affected areas. Rinse with clean water and leave to dry before inspecting to see if the mould has gone. Repeat the process if it remains.