One of the joys of teak is that it ages well. Unlike veneer over board, a teak piece can be cleaned, refreshed and even repaired, so it stays with you for years. The care is genuinely simple.
Everyday
- Dust with a soft, dry or barely damp cloth, following the grain.
- Wipe up spills promptly, and don’t let liquid sit on the surface.
- Use coasters and placemats for hot or wet items, and felt pads under anything that scrapes.
Where to place it
Wood is happiest in a stable spot. Keep pieces out of direct, prolonged sunlight, which can fade and dry the timber, and away from radiators, air-con vents and fireplaces. Big swings in heat and humidity are what cause movement over time.
Every few months
For oiled or waxed surfaces, a light re-application keeps the wood nourished and water-resistant. Clean first, let it dry, apply a thin coat of a suitable furniture oil or wax with a lint-free cloth, then buff. Always test in a hidden spot first, and follow the finish maker’s guidance.
Marks and rings
Minor water rings on oiled finishes can often be eased with a fresh coat of oil. Light scratches may blend in with a little oil worked along the grain. Deeper damage can usually be sanded and refinished by a professional, another reason teak outlasts its alternatives.
What to avoid
- Silicone-based sprays and all-purpose cleaners. They can build up or dull the finish.
- Soaking the surface, or leaving damp cloths on it.
- Dragging pieces across the floor. Lift them to move.
Treated kindly, a teak piece doesn’t just survive everyday life. It earns a patina that makes it more beautiful, not less.
Written by the Rohm team.