How to Clean Teak Garden Furniture

Your Chic Teak furniture is made from the finest quality grade A heartwood plantation teak. It requires minimal maintenance due to its high mineral and natural oil content, which protects it from rot, insect infestation, fungal decay, and mildew. Looked after properly with just a little care and attention (we recommend doing this before the start of each season, or as often as you see fit) our Chic Teak furniture will stay in good condition for years to come.

What you will need

How to clean your teak furniture

• Remove any build-up of dirt by gently scrubbing with a bristle brush or wiping down with a clean cloth (avoid using steel wool as scrubbing leaves deposits that will eventually rust)
• Using water and a mild detergent, or a water and bleach solution, gently wash away any remaining dirt or stains
• Occasionally in damp climates, some mould may appear. This can be removed with a mild vinegar solution
• Wipe down with a clean towel and allow it to dry naturally in sunlight.

What to avoid when cleaning your teak furniture

• Steel wool
• Oil
• Strong solutions or teak care products, as this may discolour the furniture, removing too much of the wood’s natural oils, that give teak is own year-round protection

A few other pointers to look for….

Ageing over time

It is important to understand that over time, teak matures or weathers to an even silver-grey patina or finish. Though the colour may vary according to geographical location or direct exposure to the elements, this is perfectly normal. The ageing process can be slowed down, by storing your furniture in a ventilated shelter like a garage, outbuilding or shed, or under cover when not in use, but this is not essential.

Checking or cracking

The British climate is very variable and all our timber is correctly kiln dried and stabilised prior to machining and assembly, which prevents warping or shrinkage. However, checking, or cracks, will occasionally appear particularly on the end grain. These cracks (opening and closing of the grain) are often caused by dramatic changes in air humidity and temperatures especially in the summer. This is perfectly normal and should not affect the strength or have an adverse effect on the durability and life of the furniture.

Fittings

We recommend all moving parts and fitting are checked on a regular basis, being lubricated and tightened where necessary before use. Please note that brass-ware may tarnish in open air

We hope you found this care guide useful. Please call our Care Team if you have any questions please give us a call on 01256 398008