Teak is the preferred material for outdoor furniture because of its natural oil, corrosion resistance and elegant appearance. However, if it is exposed to the sun and rain for a long time and lacks proper maintenance, its lifespan and beauty will be greatly reduced. This article combines professional maintenance tips to analyze the maintenance of teak furniture for you.
Ⅰ. Daily cleaning: basic maintenance is essential
1. Mild detergent + soft brush
Regular cleaning is the core of teak maintenance. It is recommended to clean it at least once a quarter, using warm water mixed with neutral detergent, and a small amount of white vinegar can be added to enhance the cleaning power. Use a soft brush to brush lightly along the grain to avoid scratching the surface with the metal brush head, and finally rinse with clean water and dry naturally.
2. Natural cleaning method
If you need to remove stubborn stains, wipe with tea or diluted white vinegar, and then rinse with clean water. Avoid using soapy water or strong chemical cleaners to prevent damage to the wood structure.
Ⅱ. Sealing and oiling: delaying aging and locking in color
1. Sealing agent selection
New teak furniture is a warm honey brown. If you want to maintain the original color, you need to use a special sealant (such as Golden Care’s Teak Protector). Clean thoroughly and dry before painting, apply two thin coats, and reapply once every spring.
2. Natural aging and oiling maintenance
If you prefer the silver-gray color of teak after natural oxidation, you don’t need to use a sealant. However, to extend the life, it is recommended to apply tung oil or mixed oil regularly. This type of oil has strong permeability, is waterproof and mildew-proof, and maintains the texture of the wood. Before oiling, the surface needs to be polished and cracks cleaned to ensure uniform absorption.
Ⅲ. Protective measures: reduce environmental damage
1. Covering and shielding
When idle for a long time, use a waterproof and breathable high-quality furniture cover to avoid direct ultraviolet rays and rain erosion. Make sure the furniture is dry before covering to prevent mold growth.
2. Seasonal adjustment
① Winter: Dry air can easily cause wood to crack. It is recommended to use a humidifier to maintain 40%-60% humidity and reduce the time of opening windows for ventilation.
② Rainy season: Clean up accumulated water in time to avoid the bottom of the furniture from contacting the wet ground. Waterproof pads can be used for isolation.
Ⅳ. Repair and renovation: Dealing with common problems
1. Mildew and rust
If the iron accessories are rusted, brush them off with rust inhibitor and then polish them; avoid heavy pressure on the rattan parts after they are damp, and scrubbing with salt water can restore elasticity.
2. Surface wear
Minor scratches can be polished along the grain with fine sandpaper and then oiled for protection. Severe cracks need to be repaired with wood fillers and polished flat.
Ⅴ. Common misunderstandings and taboos
1. High-pressure water gun cleaning: High-pressure water flow will damage teak fibers and cause a rough surface.
2. Incorrect use of care products: Leather care wax cannot be used for teak, and chemical sprays may clog the pores of the wood.
3. Ignore the bottom ventilation: Keep a 0.5-1cm gap between the furniture and the ground or wall to avoid moisture accumulation.
Conclusion
The maintenance of teak furniture requires both scientific methods and meticulous operation. Through regular cleaning, reasonable sealing, seasonal protection and timely repair, its service life can be extended to decades. Just as life in nature needs care, the elegance of teak furniture also needs your careful maintenance.
