Easy-care teak: cleaning products & tips
Cleaning products to try
Quality teak furniture should need no further surface coating. If it's stained, simply clean it regularly with beeswax polish or teak oil. Left outdoors, teak develops a lovely silver sheen over time. To maintain outdoor teak, a soft cloth and gentle dishwashing liquid easily cleans small food stains. For heavy duty cleaning and removal of wine spills or oil stains, try applying a water-based product - such as Golden-Care Teak Cleaner - with a clean cloth. Teak & Mahogany, Tel: 6273 8116, http://theteaklady.com
The silver patina on outdoor teak furniture is a natural result of exposure to sunlight, air and rain. So outdoor furniture will gradually change colour. To maintain this silver glow, regularly use Gloster Teak Cleaner, plus Gloster Teak Protector for extra production against stains. If you prefer a golden-brown hue, apply Gloster Teak Sealer before exposing your furniture to the elements. Fun's Florist, Tel: 6253 7023, www.funsgarden.com
Avoid cracks
If you've decided to opt for hard-wearing teak, be sure to purchase items which have been kiln-dried to avoid cracking. Teak & Mahogany, Tel: 6273 8116, http://theteaklady.com
To prevent teak wood splitting, never move it from a cool environment immediately into a hot one and vice versa. Fun's Florist, Tel: 6253 7023, www.funsgarden.com
Easy-care teak
As teak is a hardwood with naturally-high oil content, it has a strong resistance to water, warping, decay and the effects of sun, rain, frost or snow. Because of this, maintenance is a breeze. It's not necessary to use oil, varnish or even water sealers, but for longevity, it's still a good idea to discourage water accumulation. In a wet and humid climate such as Singapore, a teak sealant can prevent mould and mildew growth on indoor, outdoor and poolside furniture. Mirage Fineteak, Tel: 6473 6808
Test solvents
Before applying a solvent to wooden furniture, first test it at a hidden corner. If the surface looks clean and doesn't lose its polish, colour or lustre it's safe to use. Using a thin piece of cotton wool, gradually work the solvent over the furniture, making sure no dust grains are stuck in the cotton wool as you do so, as these can scratch the wood's surface. La Vie, Tel: 6734 4647
Go green!
Ensure any teak furniture you purchase is made from wood certified as sourced from a sustainable plantation. Teak & Mahogany, Tel: 6273 8116, http://theteaklady.com
Posted Apr 2010
