Teak wood is famous for its strength, beauty, and timeless appeal. It’s one of the few materials that actually gets better with age — but a little love and care can keep it looking its absolute best for generations.
If you've recently invested in handmade teak furniture or home decor, you’re already halfway to a beautiful home.
Now, let’s talk about how to maintain it the right way.
Here’s your ultimate guide packed with simple, practical teak wood maintenance tips.
Why Teak Wood is Special
Teak naturally contains rich oils and a tight grain, which make it incredibly durable.
It's naturally resistant to water, pests, and weather — a big reason why it's often used for boats, outdoor furniture, and heirloom-quality pieces.
Over time, untreated teak develops a beautiful silver-gray patina — a look many people love. But whether you want to keep it golden or let it gray gracefully, proper care makes a huge difference.
Basic Teak Wood Care You Should Always Follow
🧼 Dust it often: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away everyday dust.
🧴 Mild soap and water: For deeper cleaning, a soft cloth dipped in soapy water (mild dish soap works!) is all you need.
🚫 Avoid harsh cleaners: Strong chemicals can strip away teak’s natural oils.
💦 Wipe spills quickly: Especially for indoor furniture, wiping up spills prevents stains from setting in.
🔥 Keep away from extreme heat: Don’t place hot pans, candles, or appliances directly on teak surfaces without protection.
Simple, right?
How to Clean Teak Wood Properly (Step-by-Step)
If your furniture needs more than a dusting, here’s an easy cleaning routine:
- Mix mild soap and water in a bucket.
- Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the surface.
- Rinse with clean water (use another cloth or a very gentle spray).
- Let it dry naturally in the shade — avoid direct sun immediately after washing.
For stubborn stains, you can lightly sand the area with very fine sandpaper (320 grit or higher) — always along the grain.
Should You Oil Your Teak Furniture?
This is one of the most common questions. Here’s the deal:
- If you want to maintain the warm golden-brown color, apply teak oil once or twice a year.
- If you love the natural silver-gray aging, no need to oil — just clean it gently!
👉 Important: Only use products specifically made for teak. Avoid oils made for other woods — they can attract dirt and even cause mold.
When applying teak oil:
- Clean the wood first.
- Apply a small amount evenly with a soft cloth.
- Wipe off any excess after 15 minutes.
- Let it dry completely.
Tip: Don’t over-oil! Once a year is usually enough.
Special Tips for Outdoor Teak Furniture
Outdoor teak is strong — but it appreciates a little extra protection:
🌦️ Cover it up: Use breathable furniture covers when not in use, especially during heavy rain or intense sun.
🍂 Clean 2–3 times a year: A simple soap and water wash helps keep mildew and dirt away.
🏠 Store during harsh seasons: If possible, move your outdoor teak indoors or under shelter during heavy monsoon periods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Over-oiling (can cause mildew).
❌ Scrubbing with metal brushes (can scratch the wood).
❌ Pressure washing (can blast away the teak's natural surface oils).
❌ Using strong household cleaners (can dry out or damage the wood).
Gentle, simple care always wins.
How to Restore Old or Weathered Teak
If your teak looks tired, faded, or has deep stains — don’t panic! It’s surprisingly easy to restore:
- Light sanding with fine sandpaper will remove the weathered layer.
- After sanding, you can oil it (if you want to restore that golden look).
- For heavily damaged pieces, we recommend getting help from a professional teak restorer.
Quick FAQs: Your Teak Care Questions Answered
Q: How often should I clean my teak furniture?
👉 Light dusting weekly. Deeper cleaning every 2–3 months.
Q: Should I oil indoor teak furniture?
👉 Only if you want to keep the golden color. Otherwise, simple cleaning is enough.
Q: How do I remove mold from teak wood?
👉 Mix vinegar with water (50/50), gently scrub the area, then rinse well.
Q: Can I leave my teak furniture outside all year round?
👉 You can, but covering it during extreme weather helps preserve its beauty longer.
Final Thoughts: Love Your Teak, and It Will Love You Back
Teak is one of nature’s most beautiful gifts — and it rewards gentle care with decades of beauty and strength.
With these simple teak wood maintenance tips, your handmade furniture and home decor pieces will remain centerpieces of your home for years to come.
👉 Explore our handcrafted teak collection or reach out to us — we’re always happy to guide you on caring for your special pieces!
📋 Quick Summary
| Care Step | Frequency | Notes |
| Dusting | Weekly | Soft, dry cloth |
| Light Cleaning | Every 2-3 months | Mild soap and water |
| Deep Cleaning | As needed | Light sanding for heavy stains |
| Teak Oil Application | Once a year (optional) | Only if keeping golden color |
