Investing in A-Grade Teak from Sissonne Outdoor means you’ve chosen a material renowned for its incredible durability and natural resilience. While teak is one of the most low-maintenance hardwoods in the world, a little bit of intentional care will ensure your pieces remain the centerpiece of your outdoor sanctuary for decades to come.
Whether you love the original golden glow or prefer the distinguished silvery-grey look, here is how to care for your teak furniture.
1. The Natural Evolution: Honey vs. Silver
The first thing to understand about teak is that it is a "living" material.
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The Honey Phase: When new, teak has a warm, golden-brown hue due to its high natural oil content.
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The Silver Patina: Over time, exposure to UV rays and rain causes these oils to rise to the surface and oxidize, turning the wood into a soft, silvery-grey.
Important: This change is purely cosmetic. It does not mean the wood is drying out or rotting. Many of our clients (and Peter himself!) prefer the silver patina as it blends beautifully with the Australian landscape.
2. Routine Cleaning (The 1-2-3 Method)
To prevent the buildup of dirt, pollen, or environmental debris, we recommend a deep clean at least once a year—ideally at the start of spring.
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Brush Off: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove loose dirt.
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Wash: Mix a bucket of warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap (or a specialized teak cleaner). Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
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Rinse: Use a garden hose to rinse the furniture thoroughly. Never use a high-pressure power washer, as this can scour the wood, raise the grain, and create a rough texture.
3. Managing Spills
Because A-Grade teak is so dense, it is naturally resistant to liquid absorption. However, "tannins" (natural oils) can sometimes migrate from the wood onto light-colored cushions or rugs when wet.
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Prompt Action: Wipe up food or drink spills immediately with a damp cloth.
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For Oil Stains: If a greasy spill occurs, use a dedicated teak degreaser or a paste of baking soda and water to lift the stain before it sets.
4. To Seal or Not to Seal?
This is the most common question we receive.
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If you want the Silver Look: Do nothing! Just clean it once a year. The wood will protect itself naturally.
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If you want to keep the Gold Look: You can apply a Teak Protector (not a Teak Oil). Teak protectors are water-based and contain UV filters that slow down the silvering process. We recommend applying this only once the furniture has had a few weeks to "breathe" outdoors.
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A Note on "Teak Oil": Contrary to its name, most "teak oils" sold in hardware stores are actually mixtures of linseed oil and solvents. These can actually encourage mold growth on outdoor furniture. We always recommend water-based protectors over traditional oils.
5. Winter Care
While Sissonne Outdoor furniture is designed to endure all seasons, if you live in an area with extreme weather, you may choose to cover your furniture during the off-season.
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Breathability is Key: If using a cover, ensure it is made of a breathable fabric. Plastic or vinyl covers can trap moisture, leading to mold or mildew on the wood.
"Quality is in the details," Peter Kerr often says. By following these simple steps, you aren't just cleaning furniture you're preserving a legacy of craftsmanship.
