How should you Clean Teak Garden Furniture? Keep Your Outdoor Furniture Looking Great for Longer

Teak is one of those rare materials that looks after itself. Its natural oils protect against weather, moisture and time, which means caring for it is as simple as keeping it clean and letting it breathe. With a few small steps, your teak furniture will stay looking beautiful season after season, ageing gracefully while keeping its quiet sense of quality.

The Beauty of Low-Maintenance Teak

Every piece of Chic Teak furniture is made from Grade A heartwood teak, the finest part of the tree, rich in natural oils that resist moisture, decay and mildew. This is what makes teak such a pleasure to live with. It needs very little attention yet rewards gentle care with lasting strength and a smooth, even finish that grows more characterful with time.

While some outdoor materials demand regular treatment, teak simply asks for a light clean now and then to remove dust and surface marks. Think of it as refreshing, not restoring, a moment to bring back the soft glow that comes naturally with use.

A Simple Cleaning Routine

Caring for teak doesn’t require special products or complex steps. A gentle clean once or twice a year will help your furniture stay fresh without stripping away its natural protection.

Start by removing any loose dirt or dust with a soft brush or cloth. Then wash each surface with warm water and a mild detergent and a scrubbing brush, going with the grain. This will lift any residue or marks without affecting the wood’s natural oils.

If mould appears in particularly damp conditions, it can be wiped away easily with a light vinegar solution. Once cleaned, rinse with clear water, towel dry and let the furniture dry naturally in the sunlight. The warmth of the air and sun will help restore the teak's smooth, even finish.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Teak

Teak is naturally resilient, so it’s best to keep cleaning simple. Avoid strong chemicals, oils or varnishes, as these can interfere with the wood’s own protective oils and leave uneven marks on the surface.

There’s also no need for harsh scrubbing. Steel wool and wire brushes can leave tiny metal deposits that may rust over time. Instead, choose soft bristles or cloth that respect the natural grain.

Think of teak care as preserving what’s already perfect, a light, thoughtful clean that lets the wood do what it does best: stay strong, smooth and beautifully natural.

Understanding Teak’s Natural Changes

Part of teak’s beauty lies in the way it changes over time. When new, the wood has a warm golden tone that gradually softens to a silvery-grey finish. This transformation is completely natural and part of what makes teak so distinctive.

You may also notice small surface lines or fine cracks, known as checking. These appear as the timber expands and contracts with shifts in temperature and humidity. They do not affect the strength or integrity of the furniture and often add to its character.

Rather than something to correct, these gentle changes are signs of authentic teak adapting to its environment. Whether left to weather naturally or lightly sanded to restore its original glow, each piece will continue to age gracefully and remain beautifully strong.

Seasonal Checks and Finishing Touches

A little seasonal care helps your teak furniture stay at its best. Once or twice a year, take a few moments to check fittings and moving parts, tightening or lubricating where needed. Brass fixtures may develop a soft patina outdoors, which can be gently polished if you prefer a brighter finish.

Cushions should be stored in a dry, ventilated space when not in use. While our cushions are shower-resistant, bringing them indoors overnight or during winter will help prevent moisture build-up and keep them in excellent condition for longer.

Avoid covering teak furniture completely for long periods, as this can trap humidity and encourage mould. When not in use over winter, we recommend moving your furniture to a sheltered area such as a garage or outbuilding to allow it to rest naturally and stay protected from the elements.

These small steps will help your furniture stay comfortable, clean and ready to enjoy whenever the sun returns.

Expert Advice from Chic Teak

Caring for teak should feel effortless. With simple cleaning and mindful seasonal care, your furniture will stay strong and elegant for years to come.

If you’d like tailored advice on caring for your Chic Teak pieces, our team is always happy to help. We understand how each piece we make lives differently in every home and garden, and we can guide you on keeping yours at its best.

Explore more in our teak care guide or contact our Hampshire team for friendly, expert guidance.

Author Bio 
Robert Bowden, founder of Chic Teak, specialising in high end, luxury teak garden furniture. Guided by Robert’s vision, Chic Teak supplies Grade A teak furniture that blends enduring beauty with genuine sustainability and excellent customer service.