Taking Care Of Teak Outdoor 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.
Genuine Teak (Tectona Grandis) combines the quality of a rich and pleasing appearance with a durability that is unequaled by any other timber.
Teak is a dense, coarse, close-grained hardwood. It naturally contains high levels of resinous oil that acts as an insect repellent and allows it to be resistant to moisture and the drying effects of weather.
Because of this naturally high oil content, it is both stable and resistant to rotting when exposed, over many years, to the extremes of both summer and winter weather.
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 warm 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.
- Indoors or Under Cover: When the furniture is used indoors or under cover outdoors, just clean it and apply some furniture wax every couple of months and your furniture will look brand new again.

- 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.
Example of mildew on teak wood
Natural Aging & Weathering
When used outside, 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, or as needed, with warm 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
What to Avoid
- ❌ Do NOT use teak oil – While tempting, teak oil attracts dirt and promotes mildew growth. If used indoors or under cover, we recommend a furniture wax.
- ❌ 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.