Caring for teak wood furniture in your home requires some special considerations to keep it looking beautiful for years to come. Here are some tips for maintaining indoor teak wood:
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Clean regularly
Dust teak wood frequently with a soft cloth to prevent buildup of dirt and grime in the grain. About once a week, clean the surfaces with a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove any grease or residue. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the finish.
Protect from sunlight
Direct sun exposure will cause teak to dry out and the color to fade over time. Place teak furnishings away from windows and use curtains or blinds to block intense sunlight streaming in. Rotate pieces periodically to evenly distribute any discoloration.
Apply teak sealer
Sealing the wood helps protect it from stains, spills and excess drying. Use a high-quality teak sealer 2-3 times per year, or as directed by the manufacturer. Apply an even coat with a clean cloth and allow it to fully dry before use. Reapply whenever water stops beading on the surface.
Control humidity
Teak wood is sensitive to changes in moisture and humidity. Use a humidifier during dry winter months to keep levels between 45-55%. Avoid placing teak pieces near heat sources like fireplaces or heating vents that could overly dry out the wood.
Clean spills promptly
Left for long, spills can stain and damage teak. Immediately wipe up any messes with a clean damp cloth. For dried stains, try gently scrubbing with a soft bristle brush and mild detergent. Avoid abrasives that could scratch the finish.
Use coasters and mats
Prevent surface damage and stains by using coasters under glasses and mats under hot dishes. Pads under lamps or decor items will also protect from scratches.
Do seasonal maintenance
Inspect teak furnishings at the start of each season. Touch up sealers, clean thoroughly and make any needed repairs. Move pieces around to balance light exposure. Adjust humidity devices as needed for drier or more humid weather.
Refinish occasionally
Over time, teak’s golden color will naturally dull to a silver-grey patina. Refinishing can restore the original honey tone if desired. Lightly sand, clean, apply teak sealer and protect from sunlight until cured.
Avoid heat and harsh chemicals
Excessive heat from blow dryers, hot plates or sustained direct sunlight can damage teak. Avoid using any harsh cleaners, bleach, ammonia or acidic products which may strip the finish.
Know when to call a pro
For deep cleaning, repairs, thorough refinishing or assessing moisure damage, it’s best to have a professional teak refinisher handle the job. Their equipments and expertise can restore even severely neglected teak.
Conclusion
With some basic care and maintenance, teak wood can remain beautiful for many years of indoor use. Keep it clean, sealed and away from excess light or moisture. Refinish and make repairs as needed. Taking proper care of teak will allow you to enjoy this luxurious, durable wood in your home.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Dust surfaces | Weekly |
| Clean with mild detergent | Weekly |
| Apply teak sealer | 2-3 times per year |
| Inspect for damage | Start of each season |
| Deep clean and refinish | As needed |