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How to care for teak

Naturally beautiful. Properly cared for.

Teak is among the more durable woods for outdoor use. With a few targeted care steps, you can preserve its natural beauty for many years.

Cleaning and caring for teak garden furniture outdoors
Teak garden table on a sunny terrace

Cleaning

Clean gently

Use mild soapy water and a soft brush, then let the wood dry completely.

Teak dining set in the garden

Patina and wood colour

Let it age naturally

The silvery-grey patina is natural. Care oil is only needed if you want to retain the warm wood colour.

Teak furniture under a protective cover

Protecting

Avoid trapped moisture

Prevent standing water, allow air circulation and use only breathable protective covers.

Teak garden furniture on a well-kept terrace

Regular cleaning

Clean your teak furniture with mild soapy water and a soft cloth or brush.

Avoid harsh cleaners, pressure washers and steam cleaners, as these can put unnecessary strain on the wood surface.

Allow the wood to dry completely after cleaning.

Comparison of weathered grey and cared-for teak surfaces

Natural patina

Over time, weather and UV light cause untreated teak to develop a distinctive silvery-grey patina.

This colour change is natural, not a quality defect.

To retain the original warm wood colour for as long as possible, you can treat the wood with a suitable care product after thorough cleaning and complete drying.

Covered garden furniture on a terrace

Moisture, stains & protection

Prolonged dampness is more problematic than normal exposure to the weather. Make sure rainwater can drain away, furniture stands on a firm surface and there is enough air circulation.

Dark stains or superficial mould can develop because of moisture, organic deposits or inadequate ventilation. This does not automatically mean the wood is damaged.

Use only breathable protective covers. Airtight plastic sheeting can trap moisture and encourage staining or mould.

Care at a glance

  • Clean gently: Remove loose dirt with a soft brush and use water and mild soapy solution when necessary.
  • Allow to dry: Prevent standing moisture and give the wood enough time to dry after cleaning.
  • Preserve the patina consciously: Untreated teak can turn silvery-grey. Only use care products suited to the material and according to manufacturer instructions.

MATERIALS & CARE

Explore more care topics

01 / 03

Materials and Care

All care and material topics at a glance.

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02 / 03

Teak in winter

Understanding moisture and suitable winter protection.

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03 / 03

Care products and accessories

Choose care aids suitable for the wood surface.

Learn more