Teak garden furniture is a timeless outdoor favorite—known for its warm golden tones, natural durability, and weather resistance. But even teak needs a little TLC to keep it looking its best. Whether your pieces are brand-new or have aged to a silvery gray, learning how to properly clean teak garden furniture will extend its life and maintain its natural beauty.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning, removing stains, maintaining color, and avoiding common mistakes.
Why Teak Needs Special Care
Teak is a dense tropical hardwood that’s rich in natural oils, making it naturally water-resistant and insect-repellent. However, outdoor exposure causes it to weather over time—changing color, accumulating dirt, and growing mildew if left untreated.
While teak can last for decades, routine cleaning keeps it in top shape and helps prevent mold, stains, and surface damage.
How Often Should You Clean Teak Garden Furniture?
You don’t need to clean teak every week. A good rule of thumb:
- Light cleaning: Once a month during the outdoor season
- Deep cleaning: 1–2 times per year, especially after winter storage or before summer use
- Spot cleaning: As needed (bird droppings, spills, etc.)
What You’ll Need to Clean Teak Garden Furniture
Here’s a simple toolkit to safely clean your teak furniture:
- Soft-bristle brush or sponge
- Bucket of warm water
- Mild dish soap (non-bleach, non-acidic)
- White vinegar (optional, for mold or mildew)
- Teak cleaner (optional, for deep stains)
- Garden hose
- Microfiber cloth or towel
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Teak Garden Furniture
Step 1: Rinse Off Dust and Debris
Start by rinsing your teak furniture with a hose to remove loose dirt, cobwebs, and dust.
Step 2: Make a Gentle Cleaning Solution
Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap in a bucket. Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals that can damage the teak’s natural oils.
Step 3: Scrub Gently
Dip your soft-bristle brush or sponge into the soapy solution and gently scrub the furniture. Work in the direction of the grain to prevent scratches. Pay extra attention to armrests, joints, or slats where dirt can build up.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Once scrubbed, rinse the furniture with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Step 5: Let It Dry
Allow the furniture to air-dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated spot. Avoid direct sun while it’s wet, which could cause uneven fading.
How to Remove Mold or Mildew from Teak
If you notice black or green spots, that’s likely mildew. Here’s what to do:
- Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the affected areas and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
For persistent mildew, use a commercial teak cleaner designed to lift stains without damaging the wood.
Should You Use a Pressure Washer?
No. Pressure washers can gouge or erode the wood surface, especially with older or weathered teak. Stick with a hose and gentle cleaning tools.
How to Maintain Teak’s Golden Color
Teak naturally weathers to a silvery-gray patina. While some love this look, others prefer the original honey-brown tone. To maintain the golden color: Use a teak protector (not oil) annually; Clean regularly to prevent buildup; Store furniture or cover it when not in use
Avoid using teak oil unless the furniture is kept indoors—oiling can actually encourage mold growth in humid outdoor settings.
What About Sanding?
If your teak feels rough or stained even after cleaning, you can lightly sand it using fine-grit sandpaper (180–220 grit). Always sand in the direction of the wood grain. After sanding, wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Tips for Long-Term Care
- Cover or store your furniture during extreme weather
- Avoid placing teak on wet soil or grass, which encourages mold
- Place felt pads or rubber feet underneath to improve airflow
- Clean cushions or fabric regularly to prevent staining the wood underneath
Final Thoughts
Teak furniture is an investment that can last for generations—with minimal effort. By learning how to clean teak garden furniture the right way, you can enjoy your outdoor space with confidence, knowing your pieces look great and are well protected.
With just a gentle cleaning routine and a few protective measures, your teak will continue to shine—golden or gray—year after year.