Taking care of Your Teak Outdoor Furniture

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Caring for Your Outdoor Teak Furniture

At Chic Teak, we've been crafting high-quality outdoor teak furniture since 1998. Our pieces are handmade using only the finest materials, including A-grade teak wood, stainless steel, and brass, ensuring lasting durability and timeless beauty.

Why Teak?

  • Naturally Weather-Resistant – High levels of resinous oil protect against moisture, insects, and extreme temperatures.
  • Exceptionally Durable – Teak is known for its ability to withstand years of outdoor exposure without rotting or warping.
  • Low Maintenance – Unlike other woods, teak requires minimal upkeep to maintain its strength and beauty.
  • Eco-Friendly – We use sustainably plantation-grown teak, legally harvested and regulated by the Indonesian government.

Teak Furniture Finishes

Your Chic Teak furniture arrives with one of two finishes:

  • Hand-rubbed wax finish – Provides an initial sheen that will wear off naturally over time.
  • Unwaxed, finely sanded finish – A smooth, natural look ready for outdoor exposure.

Note: If you notice color variations during our transition from waxed to unwaxed finishes, don’t worry! The difference will fade within a few weeks as the wax wears off.

Outdoor Teak Maintenance Guide

Cleaning & General Care

  • Regular Cleaning: Use mild soapy water and a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt and debris.
  • Water Marks & Dry Spots: After rain, you may notice temporary water marks—this is the wax finish/oils wearing off. To speed up the process, wash the furniture with hot soapy water.
Water Marks on Teak with Wax Coat
Examples of water marks and dry spots

 

  • Mildew Prevention: In humid or rainy climates, mildew can form. Clean it using soapy water or a 2-part teak cleaner like SEMCO Teak Cleaner.

Mildew on Teak

Example of mildew on teak wood

Natural Aging & Weathering

Over time, teak will develop a beautiful silvery-grey patina—a sign of its natural aging process.

  • If you love the weathered look, simply clean your teak twice a year with soapy water.
  • If you prefer to maintain its golden color, use a teak sealer, such as SEMCO Teak Sealer, to preserve its original hue.

Weathered Teak Adirondack Chairs

Weathered Teak Adirondack Chairs

What to Avoid

  • Do NOT use teak oil – While tempting, teak oil attracts dirt and promotes mildew growth.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals – Stick to mild soap or specialized teak cleaners for best results.

For more details, check out our Teak Care Instructions on our blog.

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