Teak

General Maintenance: 

Routine Cleaning: Use mild soap and water with a soft cloth or brush, scrubbing with the grain. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.

Deep Cleaning: For stubborn stains, mold, mildew, or to restore original color, use a specialized TEAK CLEANER (follow instructions). For heavy stains, light sanding (320 grit) with the grain after cleaning may help. Grease stains may need a commercial teak cleaner.

Important: Never use pressure washers, harsh cleaners, or metal brushes. Test any new solution in an inconspicuous area.

For Specific Issues:

• Stubborn grime: A diluted solution of mild dish soap and vinegar can be effective.

• Weathered teak (silver patina): A 2:1 mixture of laundry detergent, water, and bleach can be used for deep cleaning, but rinse well.

• Mold/mildew: Start with soap and water. If persistent, try a solution of dish soap, water, and a small amount of bleach or ammonia (never mix bleach and ammonia!). Oxalic acid is an option for stubborn stains like water stains.

Protection: Specialized teak cleaners and protectors are available to maintain the original color or enhance the silver-grey patina, proactively slowing or enhancing the natural aging process.

Royal Botania Teak Care Solutions:

TEAK CLEANER:

• Purpose: First step for deep cleaning or color restoration. Removes dirt, moss, stains, mildew; brightens gray/weathered wood.

• Application: Follow product instructions. Rinse and dry completely before applying other products.

TEAK SEALER:

• Purpose: Helps retain original golden color, provides UV protection, prevents mildew, slows greying.

• Application: Apply to clean, dry teak with a dust-free cloth, sponge, or brush.

• Reapplication: Every 1-2 years, or as needed.

• Notes: Apply a second coat after 30+ minutes. Avoid humidity for 24 hours after second coat. Always clean weathered/oiled teak with TEAK CLEANER first.

TEAK PROTECTOR:

• Purpose: Protects the natural silver-grey patina, prevents moss, simplifies cleaning, provides moisture/dirt protection. (Does not prevent greying, but enhances protection of greyed surface).

• Application: Apply to clean, dry teak once a year (ideally before winter/rainy season). Apply first coat, let dry 8 hours, then apply second coat.

• Drying: Let dry for 24 hours before outdoor use.

WOOD OIL:

• Purpose: Colors and protects teak with UV protection and water/dirt repellence, offering a traditional oiled look. Available in various shades (darker shades offer better UV protection).

• Application: For new teak, weather 4-6 weeks or sand with fine grit, then clean with water or TEAK CLEANER and dry. Stir well. Apply one even coat with a soft synthetic brush in the direction of the grain.

• Drying: Dries in 3 hours, fully cures in 3 days (at 20°C).

• Maintenance: Clean regularly with Exterior Soap.

• Reapplication: Every 3-5 years for vertical surfaces, up to 2 years for horizontal, or as needed.

• Notes: Do not apply over Teak Sealer or Protector.

Important Notes for Teak: 

• Never use high-pressure cleaners. 

• Ensure teak is fully dry before applying any treatments (Sealer, Protector, or Oil). 

• Varnish is not recommended as it can peel and is difficult to maintain outdoors. 

• Consider bringing furniture indoors or covering it during winter, especially in areas with freezing temperatures or heavy snowfall. 

• Avoid steel wool or brass wool; use a Scotch Brite pad gently in the direction of the grain if needed for stubborn spots after cleaning.

A Final Note on Preservation

Investing in Royal Botania furniture brings unparalleled luxury and quality to your outdoor space. By following these material maintenance guides and adopting a proactive approach – focusing on regular cleaning, timely protection, and sensible storage or covering – you are ensuring that your furniture remains a source of beauty and comfort for many years to come. Should you have specific questions about a particular piece or unique situation, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you protect your investment.