How to Maintain Teak Furniture

Decide whether to let your teak turn gray or to preserve the original brown color. Over time, teak will take on a silvery-gray appearance due to exposure to the elements. Some people prefer the weathered look of older teak and it's possible to speed up the graying process. Consistently wipe off all natural oil produced by the teak and your furniture will be gray in several months.

Sand the surface of your teak furniture, if desired. This will remove old cells from teak that caused it to turn gray. Use fine sandpaper and sand with the wood grain. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth before applying oil.

Maintain teak furniture's natural brown color with proper cleaning and oiling. Oil teak furniture every three months to maintain its original honey brown color. Apply several coats of oil, which will soak into the wood and form a protective layer. Use either teak or tung oil, both of which are natural products that will not damage your wood.

Clean teak furniture regularly. Whether your furniture is brand new, or is gray from years of aging, proper cleaning is key to prolong the wood's life. Use a soft rag or sponge and soapy water for quick clean ups. Clean messes that can stain teak, like bird droppings, with a furniture cleaner and copper scrubber.

Apply a teak brightener after cleaning if you want to preserve the brown color. The brightener will enhance teak's wood grain and sharpen contrasting tones in your furniture. Some teak brighteners also clean furniture, allowing for quick maintenance. Brightener works best if applied every six to eight months.